Swiss Solo Sailor’s Transatlantic Battle: Transat CIC Race Trouble
Oliver Heer, a 35-year-old Swiss sailor from Zurich, on a mission to be the first Swiss German to compete in the Vendée Globe, has sailed into trouble in the Atlantic during the Transat CIC Race.
Trouble in the Atlantic
Oliver Heer, a 35-year-old Swiss sailor from Zurich, on a mission to be the first Swiss German to compete in the Vendée Globe, has run into trouble in the Atlantic during the Transat CIC Race. This East-West North Atlantic yacht race is a notoriously difficult solo transatlantic crossing, which began in pleasant conditions April 28th in Lorient, France. However, while the leading boats have crossed the finish line in New York, Heer remains far behind out at sea facing a gruelling personal battle in unforgiving weather conditions with numerous crucial technical setbacks.
Soon after setting off, heavy winds, strong seas and equipment failures on board lead to a significant autopilot malfunction, subsequently knocking down his IMOCA, Caroline. With his boat seriously damaged, along with sustaining a minor injury himself, Oliver Heer lost all power including communication systems, a clear satellite connection, autopilot and his water-maker. Down to his last 1 litre of water and working non-stop for 24 hours, Heer managed to build a temporary bypass system to restore some power to the boat using on board solar panels. However, with the auto-pilot still gone, Heer is sailing and navigating day and night by hand without sleep. In addition to these great challenges, during the knockdown Heer’s mainsail was damaged in the 40 knot winds, which must now be repaired in order to regain sailing speed to reach New York.
Heer’s Transat CIC Race: Determination and Resourcefulness
Though alone and fragile, Oliver Heer is determined, and has displayed exceptional resourcefulness. He has now repaired his sails, and is adapting to the electrical blackout and new sailing regime; Heer is fighting to finish the Transat CIC Race, to then secure a position on, and complete, the Vendee Globe -the most challenging race of all.
“So far, this has been the toughest race of my life,” said Heer. “Congratulations to winner Yoann Richomme on Paprec Arkea and all the sailors who have finished. I know I’ll be at sea for a few more days and the weather forecast alternates between zero and 50 knots which isn’t helpful, but I’m determined to finish.”
“We’re all extremely proud of Ollie’s resilience in this race,” said Theresa, Heer’s wife and team manager, “While it hasn’t been the race we planned, and been extremely stressful for the shore team, Ollie and the team are gaining invaluable experience for the Vendée Globe. The challenges he’s facing now will only make him a stronger sailor in the future.”
A Birthday to Rememeber
On his 36th birthday today (10th May), Heer is at sea, struggling courageously to pursue his dreams. Stay tuned for updates on Oliver Heer’s inspirational journey.
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