In one of the sweetest victories in sailing, French skipper Charlie Dalin sealed an emphatic win in the 10th edition of the Vendée Globe solo round-the-world race, banishing the demons of four years ago. Back in 2020, Dalin finished first on debut but became the first skipper in the race's history to be demoted on corrected time, settling for second place overall. His determination to go one better this time was evident to anyone who knew him. And this time, Dalin did just that, in masterful fashion.
Starting as many people’s favorite, Dalin dominated the race from the halfway point of the Atlantic descent, never letting up. The 40-year-old skipper, who grew up in Le Havre, is known for his modesty and reserved demeanor. But on tuesday, the relief and joy were unmistakable as his yacht, MACIF Santé Prévoyance, crossed the finish line off Les Sables d'Olonne with a new race record of 64 days, 19 hours, 22 minutes, and 49 seconds.
After a thrilling, long-running duel, the skipper of PAPREC ARKÉA, Yoann Richomme, completed his first solo round-the-world race this morning at 0612 UTC, finishing in a superb second place. Richomme’s time of 65 days, 18 hours, and 10 minutes was a remarkable achievement for a Vendée Globe first-timer. A large, passionate crowd had gathered in Les Sables d'Olonne to welcome Yoann back before dawn on a freezing winter's morning, and the sight of his boat's silhouette emerging from the horizon sparked an eruption of joy and applause.
Richomme’s arrival was symbolic of the culmination of an extraordinary adventure. Smiling and visibly moved, he greeted the crowd, savoring every moment of the celebration of his success and tenacity.
Both skippers have proven their resilience and determination, with Dalin finally achieving the victory that eluded him in 2020, and Richomme’s second-place finish marking the beginning of what promises to be a stellar career in solo offshore racing.
Source: Vendee Globe