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They're young, Spanish and determined to make their mark on the Atlantic. Pep Costa and Pablo Santurde del Arco form a complementary pairing aboard Class40 VSF Sport. Just before they set sail from the port of Le Havre for the Transat Jacques Vabre, they took the time to answer our series of questions... not exactly technical.
Two well-tempered characters and a complicity that doesn't pretend
From the very first exchanges, their complicity is obvious. Pep, 26, says straight away: "Pablo is a passionate person Pablo goes on to describe their understanding, built both on deck and ashore. One checks the boats, the other relies on rest. That's what it's all about: understanding and respecting each other, even in silence.
On board, a bonnet, a picture of a dog... and a few rituals of their own
No sophisticated gris-gris for these two. Pablo embarks with a little anti-cold cap. As for Pep, he keeps a very personal wallpaper: a photo of his dog. Anecdotal details? Not really. These objects, however discreet, create an emotional bond with dry land, especially when the sea becomes demanding.
What they want is to sail fast, but without sacrificing the human element
Their ambition is simple and straightforward: to be competitive. " We want to be in front, yes, but we also want to take advantage "says Pablo. Performance, without the constant stress. With the desire to return home proud, but not drained. And you can feel it in the way they talk about the sea, the race and the pleasure of sailing.
Evolving equipment and memories of yesteryear: between techno and nostalgia
For them, Class40 has changed, especially with the arrival of scows, which are bulkier up front and harder to sail. " It's got a kick "they say. But the more legible weather files, thanks to the satellite connection, enable them to fine-tune their strategies. And when you ask them about their maritime memories, sunsets often come up, almost as an automatic response. " Being in the middle of nowhere, that's when you feel the sea. "
Dream ports of call, burgers on arrival and personal boat projects
On land, things are calmer. One is thinking of a motorboat to explore the Bay of Santander. The other is already sailing the Mediterranean on a 14-meter cruiser with his family. One day, perhaps, they'll have their own unit, but for the moment, energy is focused on racing. With, as a small luxury at the finish, a good burger or some fresh fruit.
A video not to be missed
Check out the video interview in its entirety. You'll hear anecdotes, laughter, Optimist memories, playlists full of reggaeton, and even a reflection on ecology at sea. It's light, human and spontaneous. A must-see for those who want to discover sailors in a different way.
