Key Points from today:

1. Charlie Dalin and Yoann Richomme Lead:
   • Dalin maintains a 115-mile lead over Richomme.
   • Both skippers are preparing for their final week, with the finish line within reach.
2. Mid-Fleet Battles:
   • Fourth to 10th place sees intense competition as skippers navigate strategic options.
   • Jérémie Beyou (Charal) leads the western group, while Nicolas Lunven (HOLCIM PRB) and Paul Meilhat (Biotherm) have opted for the eastern route.
3. Nicolas Lunven’s Challenges:
   • Lunven struggles with unstable weather, squalls, and technical issues, including a torn masthead and leaking keel hydraulics.
   • Despite challenges, Lunven remains optimistic about his eastern strategy.
4. Cape Horn Approaches:
   • Benjamin Ferré (Monnoyeur Duo for a Job) is set to round Cape Horn next, followed by Conrad Colman (MS AMLIN), who is currently 22nd.
   • Colman reflects on the intensity of competition and the upcoming milestone of his fourth Cape Horn rounding.
5. Sam Davies and Jean Le Cam:
   • Davies (Initiatives Coeur) faces light winds and is being closely pursued by Jean Le Cam, who has had strong progress since Cape Horn.
6. Emotional and Physical Struggles:
   • JungKin Xu reflects on fatigue, shoulder pain, and the solitude of the race but remains positive about his performance and future improvement.

Leaders nearing the finish

Charlie Dalin (MACIF Santé Prévoyance) remains in control, holding a 115-mile lead over Yoann Richomme (PAPREC ARKÉA). Both skippers are acutely aware of the challenges that lie ahead in the Bay of Biscay and the need to remain focused to avoid any costly mistakes.

For Dalin, the finish line feels tantalisingly close:

“We need to remain 100% focused, as the final stretch of this race is full of potential pitfalls.”

Strategic battles in the mid-fleet

The competition for fourth to 10th place is fierce, with Jérémie Beyou (Charal) leading a western group that includes Sam Goodchild (VULNERABLE) and Boris Herrmann (Malizia-Seaexplorer). Meanwhile, Nicolas Lunven (HOLCIM PRB) and Paul Meilhat (Biotherm) are banking on an eastern route that avoids the ridge of high pressure.

Lunven, navigating challenging conditions and technical issues, remains optimistic:

“I chose the eastern option to avoid calms, and so far, I’ve managed to keep moving. It’s tough, but I hope my choice pays off.”

Rounding cape horn

At the back of the fleet, the focus shifts to Cape Horn. Rookie Benjamin Ferré (Monnoyeur Duo for a Job) is set to round the legendary landmark next, followed closely by Kiwi sailor Conrad Colman (MS AMLIN), who reflects on the excitement of competition and his fourth Cape Horn rounding:

“Two months at sea is a long time, but the competition keeps me going. The boat feels like a mix of a submarine and an airplane—dancing above waves or plunging below!”

Sam Davies and Jean Le Cam

Sam Davies (Initiatives Coeur) continues to make steady progress but faces pressure from Jean Le Cam (Tout Commence en Finistère-Armor Lux). Le Cam, benefiting from favourable conditions since his seventh Cape Horn rounding, is closing the gap as Davies battles light winds.

Resilience and reflections

For JungKin Xu, the race has been an emotional and physical challenge. Shoulder pain and solitude have taken their toll, but the Chinese skipper remains optimistic:

“I miss my family and fresh fruit, but I’m proud of my position and know I have room for improvement. This race is a journey, and I’m learning every day.”

Final days ahead

With the leaders closing in on the Bay of Biscay, the Vendée Globe is set for a thrilling finish. Whether at the front of the fleet or approaching Cape Horn, every skipper continues to demonstrate resilience, determination, and the unyielding spirit of this iconic race.