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The Mini Atlantique got into full swing with the start of its first leg toward Horta, in the Azores. After a slight delay to wait for more consistent winds at the starting line, the 64 Mini 6.50s set off on what promises to be a fast crossing. Check out the first few hours of racing in the start video, which shows a tightly packed fleet heading out into the Atlantic.
A first real crossing for many skippers
For many of the competitors, this leg marks a significant step up in difficulty. After several seasons racing on coastal courses, many are embarking on their first major solo ocean voyage.
Beyond the athletic challenge, this crossing is a real-world learning experience. The skippers will have to manage their sleep, nutrition, boat adjustments, and weather changes without outside assistance for several days.
Isolation is also part of the exercise. Once the coastline is out of sight, communication with the mainland is limited to the methods authorized by the rules, while strategic decisions rest entirely with the navigator.
Weather conditions favorable for a quick crossing
Forecasts call for a tailwind over much of the route between the Vendée and the Azores. These conditions allow the Mini 6.50s to follow a course close to the direct route, with high average speeds.
The latest route projections suggest a crossing time of about six days for the fastest boats. If this scenario plays out, the leg record set in 2014 by Giancarlo Pedote?6 days, 22 hours, and 53 minutes?will be seriously threatened.
Even under these favorable conditions, competitors will need to take good care of their equipment. Damage to a 6.50-meter boat can quickly jeopardize the rest of the race.
A Crucial Step Before Crossing the Atlantic
The arrival in Horta will mark the first stop on this race before the Mini Atlantique continues.
Skippers will use this stopover to inspect their boats, repair any damage, and prepare for the second half of the competition. The lessons learned from this first ocean crossing will also influence technical decisions and race management for the remainder of the event.
The video of the start captures the atmosphere at the starting line before several days of solo sailing. With a mix of concentration, anticipation, and final adjustments, it marks the true beginning of a crossing that promises to be fast and particularly challenging.
