Mark O’Connor – Mini Transat
Storm Gabriele, currently approaching the Portuguese coast, is proving to be particularly violent. Classified as Category 4, it ranks among the most powerful hurricanes of the year. With gusts reaching 60 knots and waves between six and eight meters, this weather system is comparable to Storm Ciaran, which swept across France two years ago.
Given these conditions, the Race Committee, in agreement with the event organizer, has decided to cancel the first leg. Gabriele is expected to hit the area as early as Saturday, allowing competitors still at sea to seek shelter under safer conditions.
Emmanuel Versace, organiser of La BoulangĂšre Mini Transat, explains this decision:
"The weather situation is very clear, and the storm promises to be devastating. Our priority is the safety of the competitors as well as the support boats. By warning them today, they have time to take shelter in good conditions. We are working with the ports on site so that they can best accommodate them. »
Boats are currently heading to the Spanish and Portuguese coasts seeking shelter
Race management have made contact with Mark and he intends to dock in Cascais -this is approx 190nm from Marks current position he is currently making 3 kts so a long slog.
We will be keeping watch and will update later
Grainne Corrigan is further north and more likely heading to Porto not confirmed as yet
Stage 2 set to start on schedule October 25th Santa Cruz de La Palma â Saint-François (Guadeloupe)
