/ 
A pillar of the port of Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie
Henry Graveleau left his mark on the history of Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie as Chairman and CEO of Semvie, the organization managing the port and its nautical development. Between 1998 and 2014, he steered a number of structuring projects, working to modernize the port while remaining close to his teams. Bruno Vincent, former director of Semvie, remembers him as a visionary and benevolent leader.
His actions have largely contributed to the reputation of the Vendée port, which he has always wanted to position as a central location for boating enthusiasts.
A passionate competitor
A speed enthusiast from an early age, Henry Graveleau first dreamed of becoming a fighter pilot before turning to motor racing. After an amateur career marked by an accident during the Rallye de la Baule, he devoted himself fully to sailing, a discipline in which he excelled.
Owner of a Jeanneau Sélection sailboat, he won several regattas under Port-la-Vie's colors, confirming his place among renowned competitors. His racing successes have led him to collaborate with some of the world's greatest sailing events, including the Solitaire du Figaro and the Tour de France à la Voile.
President of the Figaro Bénéteau Class
In 1999, Henry Graveleau was elected President of the Figaro Bénéteau Class, a position he held for 12 years. Under his presidency, the class experienced considerable growth, reinforcing its role in the ocean racing landscape.
His influence extends beyond race management. He was also the architect of new events, such as the Solo CGMer and others, which strengthened the appeal of the Vendée region in the world of sailing. At the end of his mandate, he was unanimously named Honorary President by the skippers, in recognition of his exceptional contribution.
Supporting the Vendée nautical industry
As well as racing, Henry Graveleau has been actively involved in structuring the sailing scene in his region. In 2013, he took over the presidency of Team Vendée, an ocean racing training center for young talent. This initiative has helped train numerous skippers and sailing professionals, ensuring the next generation of sailors in this demanding discipline.
A lasting legacy
Henry Graveleau's death leaves a void in the world of boating, but his legacy lives on through the infrastructures he supported, the races he developed and the many sailors he inspired.
The Figaro Bénéteau Class and the entire sailing community pay tribute to a man whose passion and commitment have profoundly marked the history of French sailing.
