IMOCA Open 60 - Vendée Globe - Les Sables d'Olonne FRA - the favorites

With the new Foiler Open 60s, the IMOCA cards were reshuffled. 10 new constructions as well as 6 older designs, newly equipped with foils, will be participating. The preparation program, restricted due to Corona, only allowed a few comparisons. Always at the forefront was Jérémy Beyou FRA with his 'Charal'. Beyou was able to complete the first tests with his new boat in 2018 already and thus had the opportunity to further optimize the technology. He will be participating in the Vendée for the 4th time, after two abandonements and a 3rd place in 2016. 'L'Occitane' of Armel Tripon FRA made a strong impression as well. Tripon started his offshore career with a win at the Mini-Transat 2003 and is now sailing his first Vendée Globe. His Open 60 has a round (scow)bow, similar to the fastest Mini and Class 40 yachts. Also always up front was 'Apivia' with Charlie Dalin FRA in his first appearance at the Vendée. Although 'PRB' of Kevin Escoffier FRA is already 10 years old, the upgrade with foils seems to have worked well in the preparation events, where he was always at the forefront of fleet. The hottest favorite is probably Alex Thomson GBR with his 'Hugo Boss'. The Englishman, starting for the fifth time, finished the last two Vendées in 3rd and 2nd places. ----- But to finish first, you have to finish first! ----- The event website with the News.