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Even before the start of an ocean race, much of the work has already been done. This work may not be visible from the spectator pontoon, but it determines every mile sailed. On board the Class40 Legallais, this responsibility falls to a single person, the préparateur.
A key job, without ever starting
Henry Alias has been preparing racing yachts for over ten years. For the past three seasons, he has been in charge of the Class40 Legallais. His role is clear: to prepare the boat for racing. He doesn't race, but without his work, the boat doesn't leave the dock.
As soon as the boat is no longer in competition, it comes under his responsibility. Shipyard, pontoon, delivery, the boat becomes his daily routine. This means constant vigilance with regard to general condition, wear and tear of parts, and the boat's ability to withstand the stresses of ocean racing.
General preparation on a Class40
On projects like the Vendée Globe, the technical teams include several specialists. Composites, mechanics, fittings, electronics - each field has its own expert. On a Class40, the reality is different.
Henry works alone. He describes himself as a generalist préparateur. He works on composites, rigging, seamanship, mechanics and deck fittings. Nothing is ultra-specialized, but everything has to be understood, maintained and repaired. This versatility is a necessity on boats of this size, where human resources are limited.
From passion boat to profession
As is often the case in this business, it all starts with sailing. Henry did a lot of sailing and tinkering on his own boats before making a career out of it. His initial training was not maritime, but practical experience took over.
The AFPA training course in ocean racing preparation was a turning point. It enabled him to enter the network, a central element in this profession. The rest depends on curiosity, seriousness and the ability to work in the field. On the pontoons, reputation travels fast.
Total off-race liability
Being a préparateur also means taking responsibility for the boat when it's not racing. A technical problem, a collision on the pontoon or a breakage during delivery are all part of the job. You have to anticipate, repair and sometimes decide quickly, without a safety net.
This responsibility requires a detailed knowledge of the boat, its strengths and its sensitive areas. On a Class40, loads are high and parts are heavily stressed, particularly the rigging and headsails.
Technical focus, the J2 tack
The episode ends with a concrete focus on a piece of rigging, the J2 tack. This headsail is used when the wind increases. Its tack takes a lot of strain.
Henry demonstrates the repair of a damaged sheath. Inside, the core of the end is intact. The job involves reinforcing the outer protection to extend the life of the part. A seemingly simple gesture, but essential to avoid breakage at sea.
A life devoted to boating
In the course of our conversation, Henry also talks about his life on board, in particular the years he spent in the West Indies on a 32-footer, where he lived year-round. An experience that sheds light on his view of boats and their habitability.
If he had to choose a sailboat tomorrow, it would be an older, wiser 40-footer, capable of making good progress, but with a minimum of comfort. An oven, a real bathroom, and the ability to sail for a long time.
Through this testimonial, Bateaux.com sheds light on a fundamental profession in ocean racing. Not very visible, rarely highlighted, but without it, no racing yacht can really take the start.
