On the Route du Rhum, shore-based teams play a key role in weather strategy and multihull routing.
The Route du Rhum is not only played at sea. For multihulls, routing is authorized: an external aid that allows determining the best trajectory based on weather conditions. This meticulous preparation, carried out on shore, can make the difference between victory and retirement.
Two specialists from Concarneau are particularly in demand during this edition. Tom Laperche, aboard SVR-Lazartigue, benefits from his team's expertise in the Ultim class. Anne-Claire Le Berre, who skipper UpWind by MerConcept, is being closely followed in the Ocean Fifty. Their work consists of continuously analyzing weather data, currents, and strategic options, then transmitting this information to the skippers.
This collaboration involves constant stress for the routers, often in permanent contact with the navigators. Every decision is weighed, every weather window is studied. The pressure is even greater as conditions in the Atlantic can change rapidly, requiring plans to be revised urgently.
Beyond the technical aspects, routing is based on a relationship of trust between the skipper and his shore-based team. It's not about dictating a route, but providing clear elements to illuminate the choices. In this transatlantic race, performance is also determined by the ability to anticipate and adapt, well before crossing the finish line in Pointe-à-Pitre.
Two specialists from Concarneau are particularly in demand during this edition. Tom Laperche, aboard SVR-Lazartigue, benefits from his team's expertise in the Ultim class. Anne-Claire Le Berre, who skipper UpWind by MerConcept, is being closely followed in the Ocean Fifty. Their work consists of continuously analyzing weather data, currents, and strategic options, then transmitting this information to the skippers.
This collaboration involves constant stress for the routers, often in permanent contact with the navigators. Every decision is weighed, every weather window is studied. The pressure is even greater as conditions in the Atlantic can change rapidly, requiring plans to be revised urgently.
Beyond the technical aspects, routing is based on a relationship of trust between the skipper and his shore-based team. It's not about dictating a route, but providing clear elements to illuminate the choices. In this transatlantic race, performance is also determined by the ability to anticipate and adapt, well before crossing the finish line in Pointe-à-Pitre.
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Source: Ouest-France