Uncertainty engulfed the waters off Lorient, Brittany, as participants prepared for the 15th Défi Azimut Lorient Agglomération. Sailors faced unpredictable wind conditions that left many wondering whether they would be able to harness enough breeze to fill their sails on the carefully constructed rectangular course laid out by Race Management. With high-pressure systems in place and a slow-moving front forecasted to arrive on Saturday, the situation remained precarious for the fleet.
The 12-strong IMOCA fleet kicked off the 48H Azimut race, tightly grouped as they set their sights on the Occidentale de Sein. The course presented a challenging 250-mile race, enhanced by the shifty wind patterns that characterize the Bay of Biscay. Charal, helmed by Beyou and Lagravière, enjoyed a strong start, leading the fleet off the Glénans archipelago.
Race Director Francis Le Goff emphasized the unsettled weather conditions, relying on various Météo France models to inform his decisions regarding the 250-mile route. This distance is nearly half that of last year’s 455-mile course, as the team adjusted to the reality of an average breeze of just 7 knots that might dissipate entirely at times. The uncertainty surrounding when the wind would resume from the west means that competitors will need to stay vigilant and adaptable.
In these conditions, a tactical race is expected, with every team given a fair chance to excel. Older daggerboard IMOCAs will find their place among newer foiling boats, presenting a unique opportunity for competitors to test their vessels and fine-tune their racing strategies. Armel Tripon, competing with his new boat Les P’tits Doudous, and Manu Cousin, making his debut on the foiler Coup de Pouce, were ready for the challenge.
The anticipation among competitors was palpable. Lois Berrehar, co-skipper on Macif Santé Prévoyance, noted the excitement around the variable race that would require constant attention to shifting winds and atmospheric cues. Similarly, Xavier Macaire, sailing with Justine Mettraux on Teamwork-Team SNEF, emphasized the importance of focus in navigating light-air conditions.
As the starting gun sounded at 3:30 PM in a light 7-8 knot southeast wind, the mixed duos executed a well-timed launch, positioning themselves strategically behind Charal, who had gained an early lead. The initial stretch toward the Occidentale de Sein proved crucial, with some forecasts predicting boats would not reach the first mark until the early hours of the following day. Patience and a level head will be essential as crews navigate the tricky currents off Brittany’s northwestern tip.
The competition showcased a range of thoughts from participants before the race. Nicolas D’stais, debuting on the IMOCA circuit, expressed excitement while acknowledging the challenges ahead. Armel Tripon welcomed the lighter conditions for his new boat, focusing on familiarizing himself with both the vessel and the competition. Louis Duc noted that the light conditions might favor their daggerboard boat but recognized the faster foilers could still pose a threat. He aimed for a collective, strong finish rather than trailing far behind.
The event highlighted not just the competitive spirit among the participants, but also a camaraderie that has developed in the sailing community. Duc reflected on the meaningful experiences garnered throughout their racing careers and the significance of participating in such events together.
As the race unfolded, all eyes will be on the skippers and their teams as they navigate the uncertainties of the wind, the strategic intricacies of the course, and the evolving dynamics of competition on the open sea.
