Monohull Racing Sailboats Gather at Top French Regatta

Established 36 years ago, the largest gathering of monohulls in Europe will host more than 400 this year. For five days, the crews will race in Quiberon Bay, France, famous for its often random weather, according to yacht racing specialists Safran. Leading skippers explain:

Morgan Lagravière in the J80
The category of J80 (8-metre monohulls) is probably the most important class in the competition, both in the number and the quality of the crews. This year, more than 107 boats will compete in this event which will count towards the Coupe de France.

An owner of a J80 since last February, Lagravière decided to have his own boat in the colours of Safran. "This year I started sailing in the IMOCA with Marc (Guillemot),” Lagravière said. “To complete my training I decided to expand the range of boats I was sailing. I bought a J80 specifically for my preparation, to be in the best shape for the 2016 Vendée Globe.

Marc Guillemot in the Open 7.50
The owner of his Open 7.50m since 2005, Guillemot is a regular at the Spi Ouest-France Intermarché and his results are always near the top of the class. First in 2012 and 2013, fourth in 2011 and third in 2010, the skipper from Saint-Philibert has worn the colours of the Safran Group since 2007 in this event. It was a decision taken by Guillemot. "This event fits easily into my sporting calendar,” Guillemot said.

Safran explain that the first big event of the sailing season in France, the Spi Ouest-France Intermarché is a perfect playground for skippers. As both a full-scale training exercise and a competition, the opportunity is ideal for fine tuning, refining strategy and self-assessment at the same time as being a great event.