Chris Woodhams's Articles

Vendée round the globe LIVE! 22/1/25

Catch up with all the Vendée Globe action from the past 24 hours in this 30-minute daily report.

The Vendée Globe’s final frontier: battling storms and damage in the North Atlantic

The Vendée Globe, renowned as one of the world’s most challenging solo sailing races, is living up to its reputation as competitors approach the final stretch in the stormy North Atlantic. With less than 1,200 miles to the finish line in Les Sables-d'Olonne, sailors are facing winter gales, unpredictable weather, and mounting technical issues.

Watch the video: Auckland Ferry drives right through the SailGP Practice Session

Last week, Auckland's Waitematā Harbour witnessed an unexpected scene when a Bayswater ferry casually cruised through the SailGP practice course, threading its way among the world’s fastest foiling catamarans. The moment, described as a "little bit of extra flavour" by commentators, sparked curiosity and excitement among spectators.

Honouring a Sailor’s Legacy: Remembering Mark Gibbs

The sailing community is mourning the loss of Mark Gibbs, a past Commodore and inspirational sailor who passed away on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the age of 67 after a courageous battle with cancer. Known for his strength, humour, and unmistakable laugh, Mark was a dedicated father, cherished brother, and an integral part of both the Waikawa Boating Club and the Queen Charlotte Yacht Club.

Severe Weather Hits North Island: Heavy Rain and Gales Expected

The northern parts of New Zealand’s North Island are bracing for a day of severe weather as a low-pressure system moves southward, bringing heavy rain and easterly gales. The MetService has issued a mix of Heavy Rain Warnings, Watches, and Strong Wind Watches for the region.

Red Sea Diving Tragedy: Survivors Recount Harrowing Ordeal

On November 25, 2024, the tourist diving yacht "Sea Story" tragically sank in the Red Sea, shortly after departing from Porto Ghalib in Marsa Alam, Egypt. The vessel was on a five-day diving expedition, carrying 44 individuals, including 31 tourists and 13 crew members, with plans to conclude at Hurghada Marina on November 29.

Body of Missing Jetskier Recovered from Lake Taupō

Police Body "Lake Taupo" recovered

Operation Resolution: First Phase of Fuel Removal from HMNZS Manawanui Completed

The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) has announced a significant milestone in Operation Resolution, with the completion of the first cycle of fuel and pollutant removal from the wreck of HMNZS Manawanui off the southwest coast of Upolu, Samoa.

Vendée round the globe LIVE! 21/1/25

Catch up with all the Vendée Globe action from the past 24 hours in this 30-minute daily report.

Broken Dreams: Skippers Adapt as Vendée Globe Nears Its End

The final days of the Vendée Globe are proving as unforgiving as the journey itself. With less than 1200 miles to Les Sables d’Olonne, British skipper Sam Goodchild (VULNERABLE) suffered a devastating blow when his mainsail tore during a low-pressure system near the Azores.

Vendée round the globe LIVE!