22 Oct End of the 2024 season: it’s recycling time for the sails on the Smurfit Kappa – Kingspan boat!
(Copyright: Alexis Courcoux)
That’s it! The 2024 Figaro programme is drawing to a close and it will remain etched in my memory in more ways than one. It’s been full of challenges and lessons but it’s the achievements which have taken centre stage.
The Solitaire du Figaro was the highlight of these past few months and securing victory in this legendary race is so much more than just a sporting success. It is the culmination of several years of unremitting work, resilience and moments of doubt, where passion and enthusiasm won out in the end!
Beyond the competition aspect, I’m also proud to announce an initiative that is very close to my heart: recycling the boat’s worn sails. As a skipper, I’m very attached to the sea and it’s crucial for me to help preserve this environment, which gives us so much. Transforming old sails into recycled products is a way for me and for my sponsors Smurfit Kappa and Kingspan to get involved in this sustainable approach and show that it is possible for us to combine performance and a deep respect for our environment.
Recycling my sail bags with Lilokawa
Having braved winds and tides, it was time for the Smurfit Kappa – Kingspan sailboat to get a replacement mainsail. As a committed skipper, I didn’t want to just throw the old sail away. I wanted to find a solution, which respects the environment as well as being useful.
As a result, we contacted Lilokawa. In addition to transforming used sails into everyday objects, it is a company which provides workshops to support jobseekers of any age with finding a personalised and lasting career path.
The Lilokawa team has taken up the challenge by converting my used sails into a series of recycled bags.
This project is the perfect illustration of how simple, responsible initiatives can have a lasting impact.
If you fancy a recycled sail bag from the Smurfit Kappa – Kingspan sailboat, head over to my social networks:
We regularly organise competitions!