Ocean Science Merges With Racing As Clapcich and Harris Deploy Weather Buoy Mid-Race

While setting sail across the vast ocean, braving the whims of the wind, waves, and weather, there leaps a thrilling strain of adventure. But for sailors Francesca Clapcich and Will Harris, another dash of excitement is added to their journey — they are bringing science into their courageous racing venture. Sailing their 60-foot foiling IMOCA raceboat, 11th Hour Racing, the duo were 2,300 nautical miles into the 4,350 nautical mile Transat Café L’OR race when they deployed a weather buoy. This is not merely a recreational sea jaunt. The deployed buoy, part of the Météo France Surface Velocity Program (SVP), is now adrift somewhere at 22 36o N 19 00o W between the Canary Islands and Cape Verde. It’s not casually floating, but rather working, recording atmospheric pressure, sea surface temperature, and ocean current data. The buoy transmits these vital data real-time via satellite to help scientists improve understanding of the global climate situation, refine weather models and forecasts, and gather information on ocean health. But the scientific endeavor doesn’t cease there. The sailors also carry a small Argonautica beacon, part of the French Space Agency’s educational program. Hundreds of French classrooms follow the beacon’s track via the Argos satellite system, all being part of an expansive learning program that combines satellite data, oceanography, and study of the Earth’s systems. The wave of discovery and learning merges in a spectacular meeting of sport, science, and education. As the sailors race, they unveil the vital role of research in understanding the world’s oceans, showcasing just how potency of science can infuse itself everywhere, even into the heart of a transatlantic race. The collaboration reflects the perfect synergy between professional sport and education, making every ocean crossing a quest for knowledge and stewardship of the marine environment. Every action, every mile sailed, every data packet transmitted from the drifting buoy contributes to a greater understanding, a healthier ocean, and a better world. As Clapcich puts it, ‘Whether it’s deploying a buoy, mentoring students, or changing how we race, we can all contribute to a healthier ocean and a better understanding of our world.’