In an unparalleled display of skill and endurance, Charles Caudrelier, the skipper of the Gitana Team, secured victory in the ARKEA Ultim Challenge on February 27th, off the coast of Brest, France. This historic event marked the first-ever solo, non-stop, around-the-world race for multihulls, showcasing the 32m Ultim Trimarans as the true leviathans of the ocean.
A Commanding Solo Voyage
Caudrelier, a seasoned sailor with two Volvo Ocean Race victories under his belt, steered the Maxi Edmond de Rothschild around the globe in a record time of 50 days, 19 hours, 7 minutes, and 42 seconds. His journey was not without challenge; an intense duel with Tom La Perche on SVR-Lazartigue in the early stages kept fans on the edge of their seats. However, from January 17th onwards, Caudrelier’s lead was undisputed, thanks to his strategic prowess and the Gitana Team’s exceptional preparation.
Strategic Decisions and Record-Breaking Performance
Throughout the race, Caudrelier not only broke the speed record crossing the Indian Ocean but also demonstrated strategic acumen by tempering his pace to navigate through treacherous conditions safely. This included avoiding severe storms at Cape Horn and in the Azores. Despite these cautious maneuvers, Caudrelier finished over 1000 nautical miles ahead of his closest competitor, underlining the Gitana Team’s dominant performance.
A Decade of Preparation and Success
The Gitana Team’s supremacy in the world of offshore racing has been a decade in the making. Beginning with a MOD70 in 2011 and launching the revolutionary Maxi Edmond de Rothschild in 2017, the team, under Caudrelier’s leadership, has amassed a remarkable series of victories. Their accolades include line honors in prestigious races such as the Brest Atlantique, Rolex Fastnet Race, Transat Jacques Vabre, Finistère Atlantique, and the Route du Rhum.
Celebrating a Milestone Victory
Gitana Team and Charles Caudrelier, whose victory in the ARKEA Ultim Challenge solidifies his status among the legends of offshore racing.
This win is a testament to the team’s relentless pursuit of excellence, innovative spirit, and the unparalleled performance of their vessel powered by North Sails. The brand takes pride in equipping the Maxi Edmond de Rothschild with cutting-edge sails and performance clothing, contributing to the skipper’s peak condition throughout this grueling challenge.
This remarkable achievement not only celebrates the Gitana Team’s success but also marks a significant milestone in the evolution of solo offshore racing, pushing the boundaries of what is possible on the high seas.
