This was a day that will remain engraved in people's memories for a long time to come. Last Friday, the skippers of the New York Vendée - Les Sables d'Olonne met up for a competition of runs, the Vendée Liberty. While they are used to this format before the races, the setting was totally new here as they challenged the clock between the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan. It was an opportunity to take in some breathtaking images and to share their passion for ocean racing with guests on board the boats.
ROMAIN ATTANASIO, FASTEST OF THE DAY
The skippers were divided into four groups and each had an hour to set the fastest time. With the wind relatively light throughout the day, everyone was busy making the most of the slightest breeze. In this game, the boats with straight daggerboards came out on top, like Manu Cousin (Coup de Pouce) and Szabolcs Weores (New Europe), who were the fastest in their groups.
Jérémie Beyou (Charal) was also at the head of his group, but it was Romain Attanasio who proved to be the fastest of the day. We were a bit lucky, but that's all part of the game. It was really great,’ says the skipper of Fortinet - Best Western. After this colourful day, it's time for the final stretch before the start of the New York Vendée Les Sables d'Olonne.
AN UNPRECEDENTED START AND A HOST OF CHALLENGES
The skippers will be leaving the pontoons in Brooklyn or Newport next Tuesday to make their way to the start zone, 80 miles off New York. The start promises to be completely unprecedented and they will have to be on their toes from the outset if they are to keep up with the pace.
As the last major event before the Vendée Globe, the race promises to be crucial in more ways than one. Some need to ensure their qualification, while others need to clock up the miles to make the cut. In this respect, the New York Vendée counts more than the other races, as each mile sailed is equivalent to 1.5 miles, which could upset the rankings in this race for miles. At the end of the New York Vendée, the main line-up for the next Vendée Globe will therefore be known: all that remains is for the wild card to be announced on 2nd July.
