By romancrance3 — La Solitaire du Figaro
Launching from Perros-Guirec in punchy conditions with over 35 knots in the opening hours, then wrestling with unstable weather along the Spanish coast before crossing the line at Vigo, the opening leg of the Solitaire du Figaro Paprec served up a proper test of nerve and skill. Yet it was an unlikely hero who took home the honours—Martin Le Pape, skipper of PAPREC, has been awarded the Suzuki Combativity Trophy.
Presented by a jury of race organisers and sponsors, this award celebrates attitude and seamanship just as much as raw speed. In Le Pape’s case, the decision tells a remarkable story. Called in at the last minute to replace original project skipper Yoann Richomme, Le Pape had to get up to speed fast with an unfamiliar boat, crew, and momentum already underway. Free from general classification pressure, he chose instead to sail with commitment and clear thinking—focused on delivering for the boat and sponsor while staying in touch with the fleet.
While he didn’t crack the top positions, Le Pape posted a solid leg, finishing fourth. His performance was marked by unwavering consistency and shrewd tactical calls in tricky conditions. Beyond the numbers, it was his approach throughout the course that impressed the jury: clean handling of the heavy weather upfront, the ability to stay engaged despite the gaps, and the kind of steady grit that counts when every mistake costs you places in a competitive fleet. This combativity award recognises a sailor stepping into an unexpected role on a high-profile project, yet turning a late call-up into genuine collective performance.
Eyes on leg two
The race now pushes on with leg two taking the fleet from Vigo to Pornichet, before the final push the following week to Le Havre. The overall standings remain wide open, every decision will matter, and Le Pape heads into the next challenge with freedom but also the hunger to build on his opening statement.
Originally published in French by La Solitaire du Figaro.
