Alexia Barrier continues to sail beautifully despite the pain from the shock sustained to her spine. Patience and perseverance will be the watchwords for the coming days.
Things seem to be slightly better aboard TSE-4myplanet. Mainly because the wind is back: “I think I’ve come out of the ridge; the wind is back,” announces the skipper, though her dorsal muscles still seem to be causing her a lot of pain. To ignore this discomfort, Alexia tries to enjoy herself by dipping into her still well-stocked supply of treats. It’s a way to pass the time and perhaps, with a bit of luck, ease the pain that has been following her for four days.
Now she’s going to focus on catching the south of a depression and picking up speed in port wind conditions port tack moving from West to East towards Spain. It’s not an easy situation since where there’s wind, there’s disturbance on board. It will pound on the “Penguin” as well as on Alexia Barrier’s back. So, as has been the case since the beginning of the week, it’s necessary to anticipate and take care to reach the end without worsening the injury.
For now, the wind is gradually strengthening, expected to increase from the current 17 knots to reach 24 knots in the afternoon. Yesterday, the Maralpine managed to cover 200 nautical miles, which places her 1,800 nautical miles from the finish line. Les Sables d’Olonne is not far now, and the arrival is still scheduled for February 28th. Meanwhile, it’s Manuel Cousin’s turn to enjoy the happiness of crossing the finish line in 23rd position. A joy that will be heightened for the Azuréenne given the particularly challenging race conditions in this ninth edition of the Vendée Globe.
