Thu Nov 21 22:16:06 UTC 2024: ## Vendée Globe Skipper Shatters 24-Hour Solo Monohull Record, Then Meets Doldrums

**Les Sables d’Olonne, France –** Yoann Richomme, skipper of Paprec Arkéa, has dramatically broken Nico Lunven’s 24-hour solo monohull distance record in the Vendée Globe, only to be immediately thwarted by the notoriously unpredictable Doldrums.

Richomme sailed an impressive 551.84 nautical miles in the 24 hours leading up to 08:30 UTC this morning, surpassing Lunven’s record by 5.24 miles. He achieved this feat in near-perfect conditions with relatively modest wind speeds around 17 knots, taking advantage of exceptionally flat seas.

However, his record-breaking run was short-lived. Within hours, Richomme found himself virtually motionless in the Doldrums, encountering near-calm winds. Speaking from his boat, he admitted the record attempt was unexpected, driven by a desire to close the gap on the leading pack before reaching Brazil. He jokingly attributed his pursuit to a personal desire to beat Lunven.

While Richomme’s speed impressed, the leading pack, including Charlie Dalin (MACIF Santé Prévoyance) and Sam Goodchild (Vulnerable), were also slowed by the same light winds. Sébastien Simon (Groupe Dubreuil) and Lunven trailed closely behind.

Race officials anticipate the leaders will remain in the Doldrums for approximately 20 hours before reaching the southeast trade winds. This period will be a demanding test, requiring constant sail changes and vigilance to navigate squalls and unpredictable wind shifts.

Despite the current slowdown, the outlook for the Southern Ocean is promising. Favorable conditions, including a potentially direct southeast course, could lead to high-speed sailing. This potentially ideal scenario leaves open the possibility that Richomme’s new record will be quickly challenged. The race director, Jacques Caraës, noted the conditions are akin to those optimal for multihull record attempts. The race remains tightly contested as the sailors navigate the challenges of the Doldrums before venturing into the anticipated high-speed leg of the race.

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