Listen & read
Francesca Clapcich faces challenging upwind conditions on Day 5 of the 1000 Race aboard 11th Hour Racing. This race is a true test, and the harsh realities of the Bay of Biscay reveal just how tough it can get.
Clapcich currently holds fifth place, trailing Elodie Bonafous by 12 miles and over 100 miles behind leader Sam Goodchild on MACIF Santé Prévoyance. The conditions have shifted dramatically; after a calm day yesterday, she's now battling rough seas near the Continental Shelf. Her voice message captures the intensity of the moment, with the sound of waves crashing against her boat.
“It's really, really bumpy, the sea state is terrible,” she notes, reflecting on the physical and mental demands of the race. Despite the difficulty, she remains focused on her strategy, stating, “I cannot really keep up with the pace that Elodie and the guys in front are putting in. I am just trying to do my race.”
Clapcich made a strategic move during the night, opting for a southerly route to avoid calmer patches and capitalize on wind shifts. With just 140 nautical miles to Concarneau, she feels satisfied with her progress and is eager to reach shore after this grueling experience.

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