So that’s a wrap for the 2023 edition of the Coupe Napoleon. This year’s course was out to a scientific mark, anchored in 3km of water, between Antibes and Corsica, and then down towards Toulon. A good start in clear air, up with the Code-0, and we were off. Soon changed to the new A2 monster spinnaker, and glorious sailing away from the coast in sunshine, warm seas, etc. Rounding the mark, and then 65 miles upwind, with the breeze dying throughout the evening. By now very light wind as we worked around the Ile Levant, keeping out of the military no-go area. The gap between the islands was painful, but we were soon back into breeze as the sun came up. Now we were working our way back along the coast, past Pamplona Beach, and into the Maxi fleet at the Voile de St. Tropez. Lots of oggling the maxi yachts. Next up through the wooden boat classic race course – just lovely, and if things couldn’t get any better, through the 12m Americas’s Cup fleet. As the afternoon wore on we got to the Esterel Mountains tumbling into the sea, and the wind died to almost, but not quite, nothing. By 10pm we were becalmed off Juan les Pins, and were treated to an impressive firework display. Three boats converged on Cap d’Antibes at a very slow speed, and the race was on to the line, 2 miles away. Several hours later we crossed the line ahead of the other 2 boats who had at least made the last leg challenging. Boat back to her new home in the port (yeh) and the crew collapsed into bunks. After a full english breakfast, the boat was squared away and finally off home for a swim in the pool and relax.
It was so much fun sailing again with Joe, Giancarlo, Rory and John. Plenty of stories, lots of laughs, and great teamwork. Thanks for travelling so far to join the team.
And thanks to the shore support team of Donna, Gwyn and Gill – there was no danger of us going hungry or thirsty.
And finally thanks to SRA and the Race Officer Dominique for their hard work putting the race together. Until next year..