Monnet is bound to be a little stir-crazy after bouncing around the cabin for five months in his bid to circumnavigate the globe.

PORT ELIZABETH, SOUTH AFRICA — When we last left French single-hander Philippe Monnet aboard the Open 60 UUNET, he had sailed perilously near an erupting undersea volcano on his bid to circumnavigate against the prevailing winds. His adventures and trials continue as he now endures grueling weather conditions on his approach to the Cape of Good Hope, which have forced him to seek shelter in Port Elizabeth, sailing around in circles as he waits for favorable winds. "I've sailed 60 miles in 24 hours, but I've only progressed 7 miles in the right direction", announced the skipper. He joined about 20 cargo ships that have also sought shelter in the bay. The net result is that a hard-won 11-day lead over Mike Golding's record is likely to be whittled to a seven-day lead.
On Friday, UUNET's steering wheel broke, though Monnet was able to jury-rig repairs. The skipper has also accumulated injuries, burning his hands last week while battling a fire onboard, and being severely hit in the head by a runner block last night during a gust. After five months at sea, the elements are taking their toll on the Frenchman physically and psychologically. "I've been through all, endured everything and I'm beginning to find the time long? If this situation lasts much longer I believe I'll go mad?" he relayed to his shore-side support team. For more information see: www.70degresud.com.