The 17th edition of the TRANSAT CAFÉ L’OR is set to take place on Sunday afternoon off Le Havre. With 64 competing duos, the initial focus during the first night is on caution due to forecasted strong north-westerly winds, which may gust up to 40 knots. All teams, including professional 32m ULTIM tris and amateur Class40 participants, aim to avoid any damage on this challenging start.
In an effort to escape the anticipated fierce conditions on Sunday night, the ten Ocean 50 multihulls have advanced their start time. These multihulls departed Le Havre earlier today (saturday) and aim to clear the Channel ahead of the strong winds.
The other classes will start from 1310hrs UTC on Sunday, with the four ULTIMs leading, followed by 18 IMOCAs and 42 Class40s later in the afternoon. The initial leg is expected to feature 20 to 25 knots of wind, promising a thrilling beginning for all participants.
Each class has its own designated course, with the ULTIMs racing for 6200 nautical miles, leading them into the Southern Hemisphere and crossing the Doldrums twice. The Ocean 50s will sail 4600 nautical miles, while the IMOCAs and Class40s will cover 4350 and 3750 nautical miles respectively. The weather conditions are anticipated to be complex, with light trade winds forecasted for the IMOCAs and Class40s, contrasting with the ULTIMs who are predicted to have more favourable conditions.
British skipper Sam Goodchild, now helming MACIF Santé Prévoyance in honour of ill Vendée Globe champion Charlie Dalin, is keen to uphold the victory streak. He acknowledged the critical need for caution on the first night amidst strong currents and traffic in the Channel, aimed at maintaining the boat’s integrity as they seek to stay ahead.
As for weather strategy, Simon ‘SiFi’ Fisher, who has worked with both Goodchild and Dalin, indicated that the opening night will challenge all crews with significant wind and sea conditions, necessitating prudent management to avoid damage.
Among the participants, Pam Lee from the Class 40 division anticipates a spectacular start but warns that some competitors, including Class40s, might struggle through the opening night. In contrast, Sanni Beucke predicts a tense night with potential hazards, urging her team to focus on durability.
The ULTIMs are touted as the fastest ocean-racing machines, with their designs continuously evolving. Current competitors include SVR Lazartigue, helmed by Franck Cammas, and previous race winner Maxi Banque Populaire XI, led by Armel Le Cléac’h. The performance of these boats will be critical over the lengthy transoceanic journey.
Ultimately, as the race approaches, the duos prepare to navigate the myriad challenges of the course ahead, each with strategies and aspirations to emerge victorious, while weather patterns continue to complicate the scenario.
The tracking in live is here : https://www.transatcafelor.org/cartographie
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