Alone with the Race
There comes a moment in offshore racing when competition is no longer measured solely against others. For Manu Cousin, that moment arrived several days ago. The series of technical issues encountered since the start—largely the consequence of a late relaunch and work carried out on the boat over the winter, some aspects of which had never previously been tested in such demanding conditions—gradually distanced the sailor from Les Sables d’Olonne from the leading group. Since then, the gaps have become established and the challenge has shifted. “I’ve accepted it. The race, as far as the rankings are concerned, is behind me now. My objective is simple: bring the boat home as quickly as possible and in the best possible condition. It’s still a race, but now it’s a race against the clock and against myself.” The situation demands genuine mental resilience. Continuing to battle offshore while the leaders have already returned to land is no small thing. “Of course, seeing the others finish always creates a little pang of emotion. It’s a bit like the Vendée Globe: when your friends cross the line and you’re still a long way behind, it inevitably reminds you of how much the gap has grown.” Yet the Coup de Pouce skipper refuses to dwell on frustration. As the miles pass beneath the keel, he prefers to focus on everything this Vendée Arctique has taught him.
