Day 3 – The Competition Heats Up!
Press Release N° 5 - Tuesday morning, June 17, 2025
Day Three of Racing in the New Caledonia Groupama Race
It’s the third day at sea for the boats competing in the New Caledonia Groupama Race. After two nights offshore, the fleet is at a turning point: the front-runners have begun the long upwind return leg to Nouméa, while others are preparing to cross the legendary Grand Passage. With strong performances, sporty conditions, and minor technical incidents, the race is entering a new phase.
Caledonian Monohulls in the Lead
Several boats have started their tack back toward Nouméa. Young Guns, the leading New Caledonian crew, rounded early this morning and is now beating upwind. Right behind them, the Sydney 38s Guilty and Poulpito, along with BNC, are putting on a thrilling show. The match is tight, with only a few boat lengths separating them. Manu, on board Guilty, set the tone: “We’re going to fight hard on this upwind leg.”
Despite a choppy sea, the 20-knot easterly wind is helping maintain a good pace. At this stage, Guilty has managed to overtake her rivals and is now leading the trio.
Snatch’N’Furious Breaks Its Surf Record
For Snatch’N’Furious, the night was challenging due to confused seas, but the crew kept pushing:
“We broke our speed record with a 21-knot surf!” said Clémence.
No one is seasick, and morale remains high, thanks to an efficient support system — including Nutella and small daily surprises packed by their kids before departure.
Team Groupama Targets the Grand Passage
Aboard Team Groupama, Ludo is feeling confident: “We’re doing well, there’s wind, we’re moving along nicely. The sun is coming out, and we had a good night.”
The boat is now approaching the Grand Passage with determination. Minor damage — a torn spinnaker and a broken sheet block — has been repaired, and the crew is in great shape after two days at sea. Everyone is ready to tackle the descent and the return upwind leg.
Too Farr Out Taking Shelter
Too Farr Out reported a rudder issue around 5:00 AM. The crew is currently in communication with the Rescue Coordination Center (COS) and the Race Committee. Everyone on board is safe, and the boat is heading toward the coast to take shelter.
Blade Runner – Néocéan Retires
Like Too Farr Out, Blade Runner – Néocéan also suffered a rudder issue and was forced to retire at 6:45 AM. The crew is now heading back toward the mainland.
It was a tough night for these two teams, but the race goes on.
More updates to come throughout the day.