It’s the story of an unprecedented partnership—an exchange of knowledge between a seasoned skipper and a top-level ultra-trail runner—that will come to life during the 2025 Transat Café L’OR. Mathieu Blanchard, a professional trail runner with an impressive track record, will take part in the 17th edition of this transatlantic race as co-skipper alongside Conrad Colman.

The New Zealander, who has completed two Vendée Globe races without using fossil fuels, will unveil the behind-the-scenes world of offshore racing to Mathieu, who is far more used to keeping his feet on solid ground.

His presence is not just about getting his feet wet—Mathieu is here in search of a unique experience, ready to test his knowledge, his mindset, and his adaptability by once again stepping out of his comfort zone and aiming to win in the daggerboard boats category.

HEADING TO MARTINIQUE ABOARD THE IMOCA MS AMLIN

The Transat Café L’OR, a prestigious double-handed transatlantic race linking Le Havre to Fort-de-France in Martinique, is one of the top offshore racing events. For Mathieu, the challenge goes beyond the crossing: the goal is to reach the Caribbean using only wind power, and then take on the TransMartinique, a 134 km trail run through the rugged terrain of Martinique. An extraordinary sequence for an extraordinary athlete!

Mathieu will sail on MS Amlin alongside Conrad, a pioneering skipper in ecological commitment in offshore racing and 21st finisher in the last Vendée Globe. This adventure is also a challenge for the “crazy Kiwi,” as he will need to teach everything to Mathieu and make sure he learns the right moves before also lining up for one of the TransMartinique races.

On October 26th, this unusual duo will set sail for Martinique aboard MS Amlin, Conrad’s IMOCA since 2022. Until then, Mathieu will undergo intensive training: sailing, weather forecasting, maritime safety, and radar watch are all on the agenda. Throughout his training, he will be guided by Conrad, who will share his expertise and experience.

“Adventure is part of my DNA. I’m fascinated by what the body and mind can achieve when pushed to their limits. This transatlantic race is a new exploration for me—a school of patience and humility. I’m here to learn, to listen, to feel… and to give the best of myself alongside Conrad.”
— Mathieu Blanchard

“I admire Mathieu’s journey, his iron will, and his ability to reinvent himself. That’s exactly what sailing demands. Welcoming an athlete of his caliber aboard is a chance to share my passion, but also to challenge my own perspective. We have a lot to learn from each other.”
— Conrad Colman

AN ADVENTURE MADE POSSIBLE THANKS TO MS AMLIN

MS Amlin, a partner of Conrad Colman since 2023, is renewing its support through 2025. This continued backing enables bold, meaningful, and ambitious projects to come to life. This transatlantic race embodies the values of resilience, adaptability, and collaboration that the international insurer stands for.

“MS Amlin is proud to support this unique partnership between two adventurers from different worlds. We strongly believe in the power of diverse experiences and the richness that comes from the crossing of paths. This race will be a source of inspiration for all those who always aim higher.”
— Klaus M. Przybyla, CEO, MS Amlin

 

Source : MS AMLIN

Translated by AI