Solo skipper Jakub Ziemkiewicz of Cork Harbour delivered another commanding performance in the Mini Globe Race, holding firm at the front of the fleet on the South Atlantic run to Recife.
The fleet’s Saint Helena to Brazil passage proved more complex than forecast. What was billed as a tradewind sleigh ride brought confused seas, intense heat and tactical pressure over 3,500 miles.
Renaud Stitelmann secured line honours into Recife, maintaining the form that has defined his race. He averaged 5.63 knots on the leg from Cape Town and continues to lead overall.
Dan Turner followed hours later, keeping the margin tight throughout. The front pair traded positions within 20–30 miles for much of the crossing.
Further back, the contest for fourth was defined by resilience rather than outright speed.
Ziemkiewicz sailed Bibi into Recife later on 31 January to claim fourth place. He managed a cracked daggerboard housing and rationed supplies while maintaining a conservative pace.
Ziemkiewicz prioritised boat preservation over risk. His self-built electrical systems and careful keel alignment underlined a campaign run on modest resources.
Pilar Pasanau, who had been closing steadily, finished just ahead to take third. The pair had engaged in a sustained tactical duel over the final days.
Conditions tested the fleet. Cabin temperatures exceeded 33°C, and cross-seas placed heavy strain on self-steering systems.
Christian Sauer battled shoulder pain to secure fifth. Adam Waugh followed in sixth after describing the sea state as “terrible” in the closing stretch.
Keri Harris edged Eric Marsh in their private match race to take seventh, while the remaining skippers arrived over subsequent days.
Recife Marina provided a warm reception. The sailors now face the final 2,500-mile leg north to Antigua’s National Sailing Academy.
The decisive stage will bring the doldrums, contrary currents and potential upwind work. After 28,000 miles, the finish line is within reach.
