In less than 10 days the winner of the 10th edition of the Vendée Globe will be known. Charlie Dalin (MACIF Santé Prévoyance, 1st), calm and determined, maintains a slight lead over Yoann Richomme (PAPREC ARKÉA, 2nd). Dalin is the first to have extricated himself from the doldrums, where his nearest pursuer is currently progressing.

At six weeks into the Vendée Globe, with the leading duo Yoann Richomme (PAPREC ARKÉA) and Charlie Dalin (MACIF Santé Prévoyance) set to round Cape Horn late tomorrow, fatigue is the constant, gnawing, universal presence. By now the underlying tiredness is never relieved by any number of naps chained together or indeed a longer sleep or two…. were the weather to permit.

After spending between 36 and 48 hours slowed, now is the opportunity for the pack to put their foot down and take advantage in the Pacific. This should be a good week for the pack spanning Thomas Ruyant (VULNERABLE, 4th) back westwards to Samantha Davies(Initiatives Coeur, 13th).