La Solitaire du Figaro Paprec

While many people ashore were enjoying lunch, a unique scene unfolded at sea off Dieppe. With the rising tide in the Channel and minimal wind, solo sailors battled to navigate around the second course mark, Daffodils. Victor Le Pape (Région Bretagne – CMB Espoir) was the first to round the mark, followed closely by Jules Ducelier (Région Normandie) and Alexis Loison (Groupe REEL). However, their lead was fleeting as they watched their competitors overtake them one by one.

In a bid to avoid being pushed further back, the leading trio resorted to dropping anchor. This tactic did not yield immediate results for Le Pape, who resumed racing much later. The ensuing chaos allowed Paul Morvan (French Touch – Foricher), Maël Garnier (Selencia – Cerfrance), Yvon Larnicol (Auray – Quiberon by Orlabay), and Jules Delpech (P’TIT DUC) to gain ground. Ducelier and Loison returned in 12th and 18th positions, respectively, while Le Pape fell to 23rd. The stage is set for intense competition among these determined sailors.

Alexis Loison reflected on the challenges faced: “We were a small pack of three who had broken away, but unfortunately, we arrived just as the wind died. With the current against us, we had to anchor to avoid losing ground. This allowed the smarter sailors to come through with better conditions. It’s frustrating to see work undone in an instant, but the race is still ongoing. We’re only halfway, with two more crossings and stronger winds approaching. There are still strategies to implement.”

Jules Ducelier shared his concerns: “I was worried I wouldn’t make the mark at all. The current was very strong, and we had to anchor to avoid being swept past it. Others managed to sneak through and got away before us, compressing the fleet once again. I’m not thrilled, but there’s still everything to play for. More wind is coming, and the next two crossings will be wide open. We’ve experienced a bit of everything on this leg.”

Next Stop: The Grandcamp–Maisy mark

The 34 solo sailors now face a lengthy coastal stretch with two navigation options: hugging the shore or heading offshore before making their way back toward the south of the Cotentin. Strong tidal coefficients will influence their decisions. A strengthening southerly breeze, expected to reach up to 15 knots overnight, is anticipated to create favourable conditions for progress on relatively calm seas. However, a front is forecasted to sweep through on Wednesday evening, indicating tougher times ahead. For now, sailors focus on rest, analysis, strategy, and some necessary boat maintenance.