The Pen Duick VI yacht, skippered by Marie Tabarly, put in an exceptional performance on the final leg of the Ocean Globe Race, taking line honors and first place in the IRC rankings for this fourth leg. This victory comes after a difficult 37-day course at sea, covering 6814 nautical miles. Marie Tabarly's strategy of " go fast and accelerate at the end "This proved to be the winning strategy, propelling Pen Duick VI to the top of the leaderboard.
Benefits and technical strategy
Under the experienced guidance of Eric Tabarly's daughter, Pen Duick VI has made the most of its technical strengths, thanks in particular to its sturdy construction and design adapted to difficult conditions. The yacht, a 73-foot Bermuda ketch, had already been tried and tested by Eric Tabarly in the 1973 Whitbread Round-the-World Race. The use of an aggressive late-race strategy and the expertise of the crew enabled them to sail effectively against strong currents and in variable winds, demonstrating the importance of adaptability and technical preparation in long-distance regattas.
Impact and future prospects
Pen Duick VI's success not only highlights French nautical excellence, but also establishes the yacht as a serious contender for the race's overall IRC title. Currently in second place overall, Pen Duick VI could win the title if conditions slow down Triana FR (66), its closest rival after Translated 9 was withdrawn due to hull delamination. This triumph renews interest in classic sailing competitions and underlines the relevance of traditional sailing adapted to modern technologies.
