A magnificent route and new discoveries
Exhilaration filled the ponton this lunchtime in Martinique with the two skippers coming in good spirits. After 20 days at sea the pair spoke of the magnificent route and their new discoveries both sailing and constructing a solid working relationship.
Fabrice Amedeo - "We're very happy to have arrived, a bit emotional, a lot of joy. Being on the start line was a first victory. Being 10th on the finish line is extraordinary, I'm very happy. A big thank you to Loïs for being a great companion on the road! We got on really well, we found our bearings along the way and I had a great Transat with him. The course was original. Of course, there is a great competition, but it's also a trip that I think is great, I loved the route, even if it wasn't easy. It's my first time in Martinique - I’m a rookie! The bay here is magnificent, I can't wait to discover it. It's beautiful, it's a pleasure to be here."
Loïs Berrehar - "For me it was all positive, great experience, first Transat Jacques Vabre in IMOCA and in the top 10! We were well on time, we are happy with the result. We struggled in the squalls over the last few days, right up to the end, at the tip of Anses d'Arlet, but it was still magnificent. It's not the first time I've been to Martinique, but it's nice to arrive as part of a race, on a sailing boat. The Diamond Rock was magnificent, we had a lot of boats to welcome us."
Teams info
Offshore racing: a laboratory for innovation in alternative materials
As part of its commitment to sustainability, the IMOCA class has recently introduced an experimental rule regarding the use of alternative materials in boat construction.
•••Reliability – the Holy Grail for shore teams in IMOCA as the ultimate test draws ever closer
There is an old saying in sailing that yacht races are won on the shore before a boat or a skipper even sets sail and, when it comes to technical preparation, that is never more true than in the Vendée Globe.
•••