Dandelion 115

 

Poole is where Stargazer finally catches up with Pip Hare. Who left Les Sables d'Olonne, after the finish of the New York Vendee, shortly before we arrived.

Pip, in the final throes of Vendee Globe preparation, spent the weekend at sea. Aboard her IMOCA Medallia. Gybing for home (Poole) off the south coast of Ireland.

Her shore crew boarded, from a RIB, off Old Harry. To help bring the sixty foot, foiling, flying machine up the harbour. 

After a weekend skimming the waves, at twenty knots, night and day, catching ten minute cat-naps as she went: Pip will spend the week seeking sponsorship. The economic slowdown having caused some shrinkage, amongst her 'non-title' supporters.

As Medallia docks, Pip is the calm centre, of a whirlwind of coordinated activity. At the helm, to bring her huge, high tech, craft sweetly alongside.

Picture Credits

Medallia track screenshot courtesy of Marine Traffic App