After a hectic start to the race (problems with electronics, rudder, torn spis…) the skipper Fives Group – Lantana Environnement has regained speed and pleasure since yesterday afternoon. “The boat is going fast, there was a beautiful sunset and tonight we will have the full moon to accompany us: really very pleasant moments!”
All last night, it was the fastest in VMG (velocity made good: speed of rapprochement compared to the direct route) of the drifting boats. Louis has since yesterday opted for a route further west than the bulk of the fleet: he thus enjoys a better angle to the wind (it is closer to the wind, allowing better acceleration than when the wind comes more from the back of the boat).
Head for the trade winds
This choice of route was dictated by the fact that it no longer has a spi (sail adapted to the gaits where the wind comes from the back of the boat). But also by strategic choice, because the fleet of Imoca is entering a weather transition: they leave our North Atlantic system to tackle the intertropical zones and the famous trade winds, these regular and bearing breezes that will take the solitaries to the doldrums.
“The weather situation is atypical with a stationary depression that blocks the trade winds and generates storms. There was an option close to the African coast. It seems to me very technical and risky. It may pass, but the west seems safer,” Louis explained last night.
Cursor question
In short, in 4 days, Louis was busy with repairs, acclimatization, strategy, sleepless nights, interviews… But what has baffled him the most (and it is quite normal since it is a first), is the right rhythm to find. "Maybe I left a little strong, for a round the world trip? I paid for it by losing my spis. But as soon as we lift our feet to preserve the equipment, we are overtaken by the entire fleet! We’ll have to find where to place the cursor!”
West, east or center?
The Imoca Fives Group – Lantana Environnement is still in 30th position this morning, 8th of the boats with drifts, but the fleet is now very spread out in side with 235 miles (435 km) west/ east between Louis (the westernmost) and Jean Le Cam (near the Canaries).
Since last night, the skipper Normand has in any case taken back about fifteen miles at the first of the «dinghies», Benjamin Ferré, adept of a median road.
They’re all going to have to deal with light winds and thunderstorms soon, but some may not be as long as others— Business to be continued!
A respectuous and circular sporting event
The Fives IMOCA is an "upcycled" boat. Thanks to Louis, it lives a 2nd life!
Louis and his team gave a new life to a very damaged IMOCA because of a fire. This refurbishment undertaking was a real technical challenge... that succeeded in only 10 months!
Louis and his team continue to apply this upcycling principle and optimization research with a constant effort on sobriety throughout this Vendée Globe program.
Louis is also very keen on respecting everyone's work and giving a chance.
The Fives Group, a major partner in this Vendée Globe program, has been seduced by such commitment and values, as it shares the same values and responsibilities.
Fives, your partner for a more virtuous industry
For over 200 years, the Group has designed the breakthrough solutions and technologies that make industry what it is. From the first railways to the Eiffel Tower, through the spatial conquest, Fives always spearheaded the industry of the future. Pioneering decarbonization, the Group is an unconditional partner of the industry's energy transition. Through digitization, the promotion of a circular economy and the development of new processes and new energy sources, Fives puts its technological leadership to its customers' service.
www.fivesgroup.com