The incredible strength of character of Marin Carnot after his dismasting

After dismasting near Wolf Rock shortly after setting off in the Solitaire du Figaro Paprec, Marin Carnot nearly saw his offshore dreams shattered. Towed back to Brest by the support vessel Express , the skipper of the Jérôme Lejeune Foundation made a remarkable return thanks to the tireless efforts of his team. This is the story of an extraordinary race against time.

©Vincent Olivaud

It's a devastating blow for any sailor. After months of preparation, searching for partners, and intensive training, seeing your mast collapse after only 19 hours of racing is enough to shatter even the strongest spirit. Yet, for Marin Carnot, giving up was never an option.

"I immediately thought, 'That's it, I'm not giving up.' I've spent so much time finding sponsors, training to be at the starting line of this race, that it can't end after 19 hours."

The Brest miracle

Taken in charge by the support vessel Express immediately after the incident, the Figaro Beneteau 3 was towed to the port of Brest. Ashore, its technical team was already waiting, ready to go. Within 48 hours, a true logistical miracle took place at Iroise Gréement to fit a new mast, reinstall the electronics, and prepare the sailboat to return to competition.

A wave of solidarity that transcended the project, supported by messages from loved ones and a visit to the site by Marin's teams. "It helps to stay motivated, it pulls you out of the hole," says Marin, touched by this widespread support.

On to the next part of the race

After a grueling 30-hour motoring trip to reach the fleet, both physically and mentally, the skipper finally arrived safely in port. Now exhausted but relieved, his objective is clear: to get as much sleep as possible while finalizing the last technical details before starting the second leg, which already promises to be thrilling.

With only one worry, swept away by a smile: "Making sure he doesn't fall again!" The appointment is made.