In particularly tricky conditions approaching the finish line, the Italian finally managed to overtake Sam Goodchild (MACIF Santé Prévoyance) to secure one of the most memorable victories of his career on his first major solo IMOCA race.
Having led throughout the race, Sam Goodchild saw victory slip from his grasp in a windless zone just a few miles from the finish. The Franco-British sailor ultimately finished second, 1 hour and 15 minutes behind the winner, following a remarkable race. Violette Dorange (Initiatives-Cœur) completed the podium after featuring in the leading group during the majority of the race. In fourth place, Élodie Bonafous (Association Petits Princes – Quéguiner) may have some regrets following a 12-hour penalty that deprived her of a better result, but she nevertheless put in a solid performance that confirms her potential for future races.
AN EMOTIONAL WELCOME
The atmosphere was emotional as the first boats made their way up the channel on Tuesday morning. In tribute to Charlie Dalin, white scarves were handed out to the crowd who had come to welcome the skippers, whilst members of the organising team wore black armbands bearing the words ‘Merci Charlie’. The IMOCA MACIF Santé Prévoyance, the boat on which Sam Goodchild competed in this Vendée Arctique and on which Charlie Dalin won the 2024 Vendée Globe, also flew a black flag for this passage up the channel. Sam Goodchild appeared predictably emotional on his arrival at the pontoon.
