Sat Dec 21 08:50:00 UTC 2024: ## Vendée Globe Update: Tight Race Continues as Leaders Approach Cape Horn

**Les Sables d’Olonne, France** – The Vendée Globe continues to deliver nail-biting competition as the top three sailors approach Cape Horn. Charlie Dalin (MACIF Santé Prévoyance) maintains a slight lead over Yoann Richomme (PAPREC ARKÉA), with the two separated by less than three miles. Sébastien Simon (Groupe Dubreuil) remains in third, but a comfortable distance behind the leaders.

Richomme reported smooth sailing conditions with consistent 20-25 knot downwind winds expected until they round Cape Horn. He anticipates lighter winds shortly after passing the iconic landmark, providing a brief respite before tackling the challenging Atlantic leg. Richomme highlighted the differences between his and Dalin’s boats, noting that while Dalin’s vessel boasts superior speed in certain conditions, his own is more comfortable in downwind situations.

Further back in the fleet, JingKun Xu (Singchain Team Haikou) is looking forward to passing Cape Leeuwin tomorrow and the longitude of his sponsor’s city, Haikou, planning a celebratory unboxing of gifts from his shore team. Xu also shared details of his daily routine at sea, highlighting the challenges of the Indian Ocean and his excitement for a planned live broadcast on Chinese social media.

Despite the leaders’ proximity, a significant gap of over 800 miles separates them from the pursuing pack. Meanwhile, Pip Hare, who suffered a dismasting, is focused on her arrival in Melbourne and making repairs to her jury rig.
The intense competition among the leading trio continues as they navigate the treacherous waters towards Cape Horn and beyond.

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