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Those who were hanging around the pontoons in Le Havre in the days leading up to the start of the race were able to meet two friendly faces, between palpable tension and infectious good humor. Timothé Polet, a student from Grenoble and skipper of ZEISS, is embarking on his Class40 transatlantic race with Pierrick Letouzé, a sailor from Normandy, who is no less motivated.
And before the watches and freeze-dried meals, the two sailors agreed to answer a series of questions designed for the high seas: a short, fast-paced and frankly unfiltered interview.
Sweets for hard times, headphones for quiet times
When asked what motivates them, the answers come thick and fast. The objective is clear: to finish, and if possible in the top 10. But that doesn't mean they forget the simple pleasures. Sweets for when you're tired, music to motivate you, and a dreamy burger at the finish. Classic, but effective.
Pierrick admits to taking his helmet with him to isolate himself, while Timothé relies on humor and camaraderie to stay on course.
Reliability, freedom, humility: three words for a boat
The pair complement each other well. If one tends to "put on the pressure", the other remains zen. And if we have to admit anything before departure? It will undoubtedly be the relative quality of the meals on board. Neither has dared to bet on gastronomy, but both know what will be on their minds as they approach the finish line: a stopover in Martinique and the desire to celebrate with the shore team, who have been with them since the start of the adventure.
Rituals, good luck charms and sea books
The ritual? Saying goodbye in the warmth of the pontoon, with the heating nearby. For the rest, no eccentric grips, but real mental and technical preparation. And at sea, improvisation is out of the question. On-board technology, particularly autopilots, is now an indispensable part of the equation.
In terms of inspiration, references range from Dalin to Richomme, with memories of Breton storms. Timothé remembers his first solo sail, Pierrick his qualification in a rough depression.
An interview to watch as you listen to a good edge
This video is less a portrait than a moment of complicity. We talk about what's missing on board, what we don't want to forget, and above all, what it means to cross an ocean together, on a committed one-design.
