BAILLI DE SUFFREN TROPHY: A UNIQUE OFFSHORE SAILING ADVENTURE

IF YOU HAPPEN TO BE IN MALTA ON JULY 4TH 2023, MAKE SURE YOU VISIT BIRGU, JUST ACROSS THE VALLETTA GRAND HARBOUR, TO SEE THE FIRST PARTICIPANTS OF THE 22ND BAILLI DE SUFFREN TROPHY CROSS THE FINISH LINE.

Named after the illustrious Admiral Bailli de Suffren, who is hailed as one of France's most skilled sailors, this trophy aims to foster friendly competition among offshore racing enthusiasts. Yet, this is no ordinary sailing competition; it's a gathering of classic yachts, vintage vessels, and traditional beauties, adhering to the rules of the International Mediterranean Committee. The underlying ethos is one of respect—for tradition, the environment, the crews, and, of course, fellow participants. Every aspect has been meticulously planned to ensure a lasting camaraderie among the gentlemen sailors. In fact, it's not just recommended, but essential to don a blazer and wear white during stopovers. Naval etiquette and rituals are meticulously followed, from saluting the crews to raising the flags up the masts. Yet, it is the human connection that truly shines, as a chain of solidarity binds the crews both on land and at sea, maintained through thoughtful gestures. Imagine this: the first crew to cross the finish line is obligated to hand out a chilled bottle of champagne to be shared with the next crew, and so on until the last competitor arrives.

Unlike many events where sailboats leave the quay in the morning and return in the evening, this is a real offshore race. Those who have sailed in the Mediterranean know the challenges of adverse weather conditions when winds wane and heavy hulls bob in the swells. The handling of traditional sails and the reliance on original bronze winches, lacking the force and motorisation of modern counterparts, demand skill and discipline. Interior fittings are genuine works of art, with strict instructions on their care. Thus, discipline becomes a crucial factor, not only in relation to others, but also in maintaining the equipment. A minor breakage can have significant consequences, leaving a boat immobilised or facing irreparable damage due to outdated or unobtainable parts. Seamanship and preparation are paramount before stepping aboard these vessels.

Since 2018, the trophy has been under the stewardship of Lionel Péan, a legendary figure in French sailing. Péan, a winner of round-the-world crewed races such as the Solitaire du Figaro and