Dandelion 52

 

Sam Davies (top left) proves an exception to the rule. Personally leading the work, to set her IMOCA to rights, after the race. Whilst maintaining a maternal lookout, for son Ruben’s welfare.

Aboard Initiatives Coeur, the decks are soon shipshape. Red topsides glowing. The team retire beneath the streamlined cockpit canopy. For, what looks like, a debrief session.

In the quiet of the morning, before the breeze (on the change from yesterday's stiff northerly to today's lighter southerly) is astir; the overnight arrivals lie still. After racing the Atlantic in both directions.

Teams of 'preparateurs' clamber aboard, to tend to the IMOCAs' needs. Their skippers ashore, catching up with loved ones. And sleep.

Whilst sails are carefully inspected and stowed.

All systems, meticulously checked. For the Vendee Globe, solo, round the world race, starts on the tenth of November.