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The 15th edition of the Armen Race is set to be a monumental event, featuring over 630 sailors from 147 crews. This year's race, starting on May 14th at 2:00 PM in Quiberon Bay, could redefine offshore racing in the Atlantic.
Race director Gilles Bricout has extended the long course to 350 miles, strategically navigating close to the coastline to dodge strong winds on the first night. The route includes downwind runs to waypoints near Île d'Yeu and an upwind return via Belle-Île. The first boats are expected to finish between Friday night and Saturday morning.
The Armen Race is part of the IRC Atlantic Channel 2026 Championship, attracting a diverse fleet across eight categories, including IRC and Multi2000. Notable entrants include Nicolas Groleau on BT Blue, facing off against Jean-Philippe Saliou’s Mach 50 Palanad 4, and Sidney Gavignet on the historic Le Cigare Rouge.
Guillaume l'Hostis competes in Class40 for Alternative Sailing, which is also offering a Caribbean charter as a prize. With legends like Benoît Hochart's Pen Duick III joining the mix, this race is poised to captivate maritime enthusiasts and competitors alike.
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