The enthralling battle for the lead in the round-the-world Vendee Globe hit the halfway point on Wednesday, with Frenchman Francois Gabart leading compatriot Armel Le Cleac'h by just over 12 nautical miles (22 kilometers).

With 12,035 miles (19,368 kilometers) to the finish at Les Sables-d'Olonne in west France, the fleet which began with 20 boats but has since been reduced to 13 has been at sea for 39 days in what is regarded as the most prestigious race in the sport.

The solo helmsmen who sail without stopping or without assistance must now negotiate the dangers of the Pacific and Atlantic oceans as they make their way back toward the starting point.

"I'll try to do possibly even better in the second half," said Gabart.

AFP - Global Times