The Mediterranean has transformed the sprint to Cartagena into a tactical battle, with the leading team, Paprec Arkéa, facing unexpected challenges as the chasing pack accelerates. After a strong start, reaching speeds of 30 knots through Gibraltar, Paprec Arkéa found themselves struggling in light winds, drifting at barely a knot as competitors Biotherm and Holcim-PRB surged ahead.
Just hours before, skipper Yoann Richomme’s crew had solid control, but a sudden wind shift left them stranded. “We made a great move in the night… but by dawn, the fan just completely turned off!” Richomme lamented. This costly offshore decision allowed Biotherm, who stayed closer to the Spanish coast, to regain ground, harnessing a thermal breeze.
Paul Meilhat’s Biotherm took the lead in the early hours, and Holcim-PRB followed closely. Skipper Franck Cammas cautioned, “In these conditions, there’s always a chance for the boats behind to come back,” as they faced calm waters ahead. The fleet sensed an opportunity as Team Malizia and Allagrande Mapei Racing, having experienced their own highs and lows, also began to close the gap.
As of midday, Biotherm held an 18-mile lead over Holcim-PRB, with Paprec Arkéa trailing further back. The light winds and unpredictable conditions promised a thrilling finish, with potential for last-minute shifts in positions as the boats approached Cartagena.
The tight competition was palpable, as Malizia co-skipper Will Harris commented, “It’s nice to have another boat to push with. The Med is all over the place. We’re not here to fight for fourth or fifth place – we’re here to fight higher up.” With less than 100 miles to go, Richomme’s crew faces the risk of losing their top spot, echoing challenges faced earlier in the race.
As the competitors navigate the fickle Mediterranean conditions, the finish for the leading boat could arrive anytime between Friday night and Saturday morning local time. The race, initially thought to be straightforward, has evolved into a delicate balancing act where every puff of wind can change the standings dramatically.
With the finish line in sight, the excitement builds as sailors prepare for the unpredictable final stretch of Leg 2 of this thrilling race.
For live updates, visit www.theoceanrace.com, or catch the coverage through media partner Warner Bros. Discovery.
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