Alexis Loison (Groupe REEL) claimed victory in the first leg of La Solitaire du Figaro Paprec, completing the race in 3 days, 18 hours, 55 minutes, and 26 seconds. Following him were Hugo Dhallenne (Skipper Macif 2025) and Charlotte Yven (Skipper Macif 2023) who made up the podium. This marks Loison’s second victory in his career, having previously won in 2014 in Plymouth.
This leg has been described by participants as one of the most memorable in the race’s history, filled with intense moments that highlight the race’s reputation as one of the most challenging offshore events.
Loison maintained a strong position throughout the 638 nautical miles, making strategic moves before the final of four crossings of the English Channel, showcasing his expertise in these waters.
Loison remarked on the challenging nature of the leg, stating, “I’ve been dreaming of winning another leg for ten years. It wasn’t easy, I had a pack chasing me the whole time… At Portland Bill, I was the first to head into it, and I could hear the others warning over the VHF that it was rough. I’m super happy with how I managed this leg—it was a beautiful one.” He covered a total distance of 731.6 miles at an average speed of 7.84 knots.
Hugo Dhallenne, who finished second, reflected on his performance, noting the various conditions faced throughout the race and the importance of teamwork with Charlotte Yven, stating, “We had all kinds of conditions… I didn’t always follow the plan perfectly, but in the end I did. Alexis is a tough competitor, so we were expecting his victory!”
Charlotte Yven crossed the finish line just over five minutes later, securing third place after a race full of tactical decisions and competitive racing. She expressed her joy at reaching the podium, saying, “I’m super happy to reach the podium… the rest of the race was really intense—it felt like four races in one.”
Completing the top five were Jules Ducelier (Région Normandie) and Arno Biston (Article.1), who finished just 32 seconds apart. Tom Dolan (Kingspan), the 2024 winner, finished sixth, and Yvon Larnicol (Auray – Quiberon by Orlabay) was the first rookie to finish, taking home the Bénéteau Rookie Trophy.
La Solitaire du Figaro Paprec, organised by OC Sport Pen Duick, continues to offer skippers a platform for competition in a demanding environment, and the Défi Paprec showcased double-handed crews who may one day compete solo in this challenging race.
With preparations underway for the second leg from the Bay of Morlaix to Vigo, competitors are set to face strong winds, with a depression moving into the Bay of Biscay.
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