Chasing Wind and Sea: Onboard Reporters Bring to Life the Intensity of Sailing in the Course des Caps

In the yacht racing world, no one has a better firsthand view of the action than onboard reporters (OBRs). Especially in the whirlwind adventure that is the Course des Caps - Boulogne sur Mer - Banque Populaire du Nord race. OBRs are providing unprecedented access to life on the high seas, capturing the trials, triumphs, and communal rhythms aboard the now ten yachts navigating the 2,000-nautical mile circuit around Britain and Ireland.

Galvanising this narrative is Frenchwoman Anne Beaugé, a seasoned hand in this sphere. She presents an inside view into operator’s role onboard, striking a delicate balance to report events without hindering the sailors. After enrolment in the previous Ocean Race with IMOCA Class on Biotherm, she is making a buoyant return to her ‘second home’ post-maternity, gracing the Holcim-PRB team.

Her metaphorical allusion to her presence on board as that of a ’little mouse’ highlights the intricate dynamics of her role. She beautifully sums up her mission to document without obstructing and to contribute modestly to onboard life, contributing to mundane tasks between her reportorial ones. She cherishes her time on board as a privilege, enjoying close-up observation of a team competing in high-level professional sport.

As spectators, we are fortunate to bear witness to this riveting tale of human fortitude and mother nature’s grandeur through the lens of engaging OBRs like Beaugé.