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Embarking on a solo transatlantic race requires time, miles and methodical preparation. Patrick Isoard is taking this progressive approach to the Route du Rhum 2026. An experienced amateur sailor, he is backed by a race program, a boat with a solid track record and a project that combines sailing with a commitment to solidarity.
A course built over many miles
Patrick Isoard is not a professional ocean racer, but a sailor who has accumulated experience over the seasons. A company director in the nautical sector, he has been sailing for many years and regularly takes part in ocean races. His track record includes several participations in the Transquadra, a transatlantic race reserved for amateur sailors. He finished 16th in 2016, 10th in 2018 and 4th in 2022.
Over the course of the seasons, he also took part in a series of events on the Atlantic calendar, often on Sun Fast 3200s. Results include La Trinité Cherbourg, Pornic Baïona, the Drheam Cup and races on the 45.5 circuit. In 2023, he took 2nd place in the national Sun Fast 3200 championship at La Rochelle. This accumulation of solo and double-handed events forms the basis of his preparation. Sailing alone means managing fatigue, the weather and the boat's reliability over long periods. These are essential fundamentals before considering an Atlantic crossing in November.
A Class 50 Open with a great track record
For the Route du Rhum 2026, Patrick Isoard has chosen a 50-foot Open monohull designed by Finot, and built in 1997 by the JMV Industries yard in Cherbourg. The boat has a long history of ocean racing. Launched under the name Magellan Alpha, she has taken part in several major ocean races. In particular, she won the 50 class in the 2002-2003 Around Alone with American Brad Van Liew, winning every leg.
The yacht then changed owner and name several times. She was seen in the Route du Rhum 2014 with Daniel Ecalard. In 2024, Patrick Isoard became the boat's owner and renamed her Santosha before committing her to a new sailing program.
Progressive preparation through running
Before aiming for the Route du Rhum 2026, the project is based on several preparatory events. The aim is to validate the boat, the organization and the ability to sail single-handed for long periods. In 2024, Patrick Isoard takes part in The Transat CIC between Lorient and New York. In the Vintage category, he won the race in 16 days, 21 hours and 22 minutes. This transatlantic race was a major milestone in the program.
The same year, he also takes part in the Transat Québec Saint Malo. Over the 2,897-mile course, his Class 50 finished 2nd in the Gerry Roufs category. In 2025, the boat continues its program with several ocean and European races. These include the RORC Transatlantic Race between Lanzarote and Granada, the Rolex Fastnet Race and the solo Nuit des Îles du Ponant.
Santosha's preparation is therefore focused on robust equipment and simple systems. Rigging, sails, electronics and fittings must remain repairable at sea with the means available on board. For Patrick, victory is not the main objective. The priority remains to create the right conditions to sail cleanly and get the boat to the end of the course.
A sports project associated with an educational cause
Beyond the sporting challenge, the Route du Rhum 2026 project also involves a commitment to solidarity. Patrick Isoard supports Les Enfants du Mékong, an organization committed to the education of disadvantaged children in South-East Asia.
This partnership adds an extra dimension to the maritime adventure. The project links a transatlantic race to a process of transmission and support for education.
