Through the Eyes of Jacques Caraës

He was the first to win the Transat Paprec, back in 1992 with Michel Desjoyeaux—33 years ago. A renowned sailor and race director of prestigious events, Jacques speaks of the Transat Paprec with wonder and enthusiasm.

"I’m still passionate about this race. I have great memories of the first edition, and I’m really enjoying following this new one. I think the mixed-gender format fits perfectly with the race’s DNA. The strength of one-design racing, especially in double-handed format, is that it creates constant, close competition. What’s really interesting is seeing the rise of this younger generation. There was a time when I knew all of them—now that’s a bit less the case, but it’s a joy to watch! I follow them with great admiration.

The key to performing well is tenacity and grit. This race is like hand-to-hand combat where you can’t let go until the very end. When Michel Desjoyeaux and I won, we only pulled away from our rivals (Frédéric Leclere and Loïc Blanken) in the final hours of the race. That’s what makes this race extraordinary: you have to fight all the way to the finish!"