Leaders slow-down in Doldrums, Hare in ‘boat-breaking’ conditions and Merron rounds Cape Horn (VG update 18Jan21)

Louis Burton (Bureau Vallée) – pictured above – has escaped from the Doldrums after being the first to break back into the northern hemisphere. He has been making a consistent 17kts early this morning. With the exception of Charlie Dalin who is 115 nautical miles to his SE, the pack is well dispersed and mostly still struggling with an ICTZ which is proving much more active and sticky than was expected.

But the situation could totally change today. It is easier to see the sky and the clouds – there has been hardly any moon – but the gusts and puffs become more visible even if it cloudy, oppressive and overcast. And the rain clouds are more obvious on the horizon.

After retiring, Sébastien Destremau (Merci) has arrived safely in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Hear from skippers around the fleet

Pip Hare has been through the ‘eye of the storm’

The plan went well, she’s ‘popped’ out the other side, but the sea state’s terrible. These are boat breaking conditions, she says.

“It’s like Medallia is being picked up and dropped off a cliff every five minutes.” (18.08 17Jan21)

Miranda Merron has rounded the horn

Merron has thanked her team for getting her that far, her sponsors and her partner.

“My presence at this place aboard Campagne de France is entirely due to Halvard whom I thank for believing in our ability to put this project together. I thank him for the hard work he has done over the past two years. I thank our sponsors and technical partners for their support. And everyone who helps and supports us in one way or another. I am a very lucky girl. Thank you all for your lovely messages.” (08.55 18Jan21)

Watch a round-up of yesterday’s action from race organisers

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