Skipper Yannick Bestaven held onto the lead in the Vendée Globe early on Tuesday, but his lead over his pursuer Charles Dalin was further reduced as they sailed the South Pacific.
Bestaven (Maître Coq IV), at the helm for almost a week, has 93.9 nautical miles (173.9 km) ahead of Dalin (Apivia), according to the ranking published at 5 hours.
Conversely, the third, Thomas Rettant (LinkedOut), has lost some ground and is now 175.3 miles (324.6 km) from the lead.
Bestaven heads for the famous Nemo point, which designates the maritime pole of inaccessibility, which he could quickly reach if he attempts a strategic blow by placing himself in front of a high pressure area.
If the option proves beneficial, it could widen the gap, especially on Dalin and Rouillard.
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