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CLASS40
IMOCA
OCEAN FIFTY
ULTIM
Ultim
Heading into the Doldrums Banque Populaire XI still in control
Banque Populaire XI is still leading the ULTIM fleet as they enter the Doldrums. The Intertropical Convergence Zone lies about 60 miles ahead of the leading boat this morning and does not appear to be very active today. The leader will be the first to slow down, but may well then extend their lead as she picks up the SE’ly trade winds on the other side. Those further back may find the crossing more difficult.
Behind the curtain with the Weather Routers…..”It’s addictive. It is very addictive.”
In the fast moving world of the ULTIM and Ocean Fifty division,s on shore routing is not just permitted, for all almost all of the duos racing the Transat Jacques Vabre Normandie Le Havre as it is considered essential. With the ULTIMS moving at speeds of over 40 knots and the Ocean Fifty more susceptible to capsize, spending a lot of time on navigating, analysing the weather and routes would simply add an extra layer of danger.
Ultim
Banque Populaire XI in charge in the trade winds.
After passing Madeira, out of a high pressure ridge and speeding up in the Trade Winds yesterday, the five ULTIMS on the Transat Jacques Vabre race from Le Havre to Martinique are now into good weather with pleasant seas. The leaders are speeding south to the Cape Verde Islands which they are expected to pass today.
