Last Saturday off Cowes in England, 22 Class40s finally set off on their assault on the 50th Rolex Fastnet Race. The conditions were tough: strong south-westerly winds, heavy seas and reduced visibility put the competitors in the right frame of mind for what lay ahead. The crews therefore set off cautiously with reduced sail area. The 35 to 40 knots predicted as they left the Solent were well and truly present, causing misery for all competitors and leading to numerous retirements. Nicolas Jossier (La Manche Evidence Nautique) bore the brunt.
the toll, as he decided to throw in the towel without a headsail after breaking his staysail hook, followed by The3bros, Tquila and Trimcontrol.
Ambrogio Beccaria (Alla Grande - Pirelli), the race favorite, was in too much of a hurry to get to the finish line, and was probably slightly pushed by the current. He was awarded a 120-minute penalty, which could well cost him victory despite his position as fleet leader. He was the first to pass the Fastnet lighthouse this morning at 9:35 am after just over 20 hours of racing. 18 minutes and 41 seconds later the women's crew of La Boulangère Bio, led by Amélie Grassi, rounded the mythical mark ahead of Everial, trying to outwit the wind. Influence2, Vogue avec un Crohn, IBSA and BT Blue Alternative Sailing followed close behind.
As for the pointus boats, Kite is widening the gap with its pursuers Cantaloop and Yoda, who have yet to pass the famous pebble.
The first part of the fleet is now racing downwind towards the finish line in Cherbourg, looking for the slightest opportunity to make their mark. The gaps are small, nothing is decided, and this second part of the race promises to be exhilarating.
The frontrunners are expected tomorrow evening.
Partager sur :
