Yoann Richomme: Eyes on the prize

Yoann Richomme is back at the helm of a Paprec Arkéa team which is sitting third overall, even as Biotherm extends its lead and Holcim-PRB pulls level on points. While he admits that the two Verdier designs “will be tough to beat,” he’s not giving up hope.

How did you experience this last leg from a distance?
“I actually really enjoyed it! I managed to switch off, even though I followed the race closely. It was nice to step back, recharge, and then come back fresh. This is a demanding race that really takes a toll physically, so it was important to look after myself. The break was very beneficial—even if I’m really happy to be back!”

Did you miss being offshore and in competition?
“Yes, but I think it’s super important to know when to step back and let the team get on with it without me. Even though they were a bit disappointed with fourth place, they put in a really strong performance. We all know it’s a tricky regatta, with lots of transitions and boats that aren’t easy to handle in these conditions. They did a great job and I’m really proud of them!”

The Mediterranean is always full of surprises. What’s the best way to deal with that?
“Clearly, it’s the Biotherm method! We suffer a little because of our boat’s design, which is geared towards heavy seas and big conditions. In face, we’re probably less suited to the Mediterranean… We’re really waiting for some fast downwind sailing, even though it doesn’t always come!”

Halfway through the race, what’s the team’s mindset?
“It’s good. Of course, we would have liked better results—sometimes we weren’t far off. But we’re tied for second overall, we’ve had two podiums in three legs, and we’re consistently in the mix. Those are solid results. Our goal is to fight for the final podium, because we know the two Verdier boats are very well-suited to this race course and tough to beat. It’s up to us to keep pushing and give it everything.”

Biotherm has been flawless so far. Are you impressed by their consistency?
“Yes, it’s a remarkable performance, above all for its consistency. They weren’t known for being so consistently at the front of the fleet. I think one of the key factors behind their success is their boat design, which is especially well adapted to this kind of sailing.”

The fourth leg lasts just three days. What are the keys to this one?
“We’ll likely round Corsica before heading past the Italian islands and finishing Wednesday in Genoa. The scoring gate is off Monaco, in very light winds, which will be tricky. Then the crossing to Corsica should also be in light conditions, followed by several transitions south of the island. Hopefully, we’ll get some downwind sailing around the ‘Île de Beauté,’ but it won’t be straightforward!”