Boris Herrmann fights against thunderstorms and technology problems at Vendée Globe
Boris Herrmann fights against thunderstorms and technology problems at Vendée Globe
The 10th edition of the Vendée Globe, which started on November 11, 2024, brings considerable challenges for the participants in the current phase of the race. Boris Herrmann from Hamburg sails for the second time with his boat, the Malizia - Seaexplorer. According to the current status, which was reported on January 9, 2025, Charlie Dalin is at the top with his boat Macif, followed by Yoann Richomme in second place. Herrmann currently occupies the 6th place, while there are only 90 nautical miles (166 km) between positions 4 and 9.
A remarkable fact is the participation of violet Dorange, the youngest participant in this race at the age of 23, which struggles with engine problems and has not yet achieved Cape Horn. Herrmann reports of extreme weather conditions that also burden his group. A severe storm with thunderstorms led to a lightning strike that damaged systems on board. In the meantime, Thomas Ruyant has lost an important sail and fights for fourth place, while Yannick Bestaven cannot continue due to technical problems and has achieved Ushuaia.
challenges at sea
like Vendeieglobe.org , Herrmann experienced an extremely challenging day at sea after climbing on the mast. A massive weather front brought along ceaseless thunderstorms, which are described as exceptional. These thunderstorms lasted overnight until the day, accompanied by heavy rain and high waves, which brought the boat into trouble. It was reported that Herrmann's boat was lying in the water several times and he was thrown violently through the cabin.
A lightning strike nearby meant that the screen began to flit and the autopilot and the instruments were out. Alarms sounded, the boat lost control and lay flat again in the water. The conditions finally improved with a returning north wind after the weather front, but many systems on board failed, including radar and main screen. Despite the difficulties, however, Herrmann was able to charge his batteries and use the water treatment plant while he hopes that this was the last thunderstorm of the race.
The arrival of the leaders is expected for 14 or 15 January 2025 in Les Sables-d’olonne, while Herrmann plans to arrive on January 24, 2025, 2,040 nautical miles behind the top. In this challenging phase of the race, the skipper must pay particular attention to icebergs in the South Atlantic, while the weather plays a crucial role in the placements.
-transmitted by DetailsOrt Les Sables-d'Olonne, Frankreich Quellen
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