Between forced disembarkation and passing the bar
Less than a week apart, the world of competitive sailing, and in particular that of the big trimarans, was marked by two major announcements, whose resonance may seem strange. On the one hand, Francis Joyon, 66 years old, reluctantly confirmed the information that had leaked out from the end of its 20-year collaboration with its sponsor Idec Sport . The latter will entrust the boat to Alexia Barrier for her Famous Project, a 100% female Jules Verne Trophy project, while the skipper with multiple records is in no way considering retirement. On the other hand, SVR Lazartigue called the press to announce a handover at the helm of his Ultim trimaran being modified . François Gabart wants to take a step back from solo sailing at only 40 years old, Tom Laperche, a 25-year-old prodigy, becomes the official skipper of the big blue multihull .
No matter how old the captain is...
The online reactions were not lacking in virulence. While some were offended by the sidelining of Francis Joyon, others pointed to his age and a supposed lack of results to push him into retirement. François Gabart's fans were numerous, mourning their idol while praising the maturity of his choice. Some questioned Tom Laperche's ability to lead his Formula 1 boat.
To paraphrase Corneille, I would rather say that " to well-born sailors, the value does not wait for the number of years " ! Some of them start to wet their oilskins at a very young age and are much more competent than their elders commenting on the pontoons. In the meantime, whether for the regatta or for the cruise, see you all on the water, from 7 to 77 years old, and even before or after!
