Lake Geneva Gears Up for 87th Bol d'Or Sailing Race

Lake Geneva will once again transform into a grand maritime stage as the 87th edition of the Bol d'Or du Léman sailing race unfolds from June 5 to 7. This prestigious event is expected to draw over 400 boats and approximately 2500 sailors, all converging on the Geneva bay for a weekend celebrating a shared passion for the water.

Organized by the Société Nautique de Genève (SNG), the race aims to enhance the public's experience while upholding the competitive spirit that defines this legendary competition. The organizing committee describes the Bol d'Or as "the lake's great festival." The course remains a 123-kilometer round trip between Geneva and Le Bouveret, but the unpredictable nature of Lake Geneva, with its shifting winds and calm zones, ensures that the race's outcome is never certain, contributing to its international renown.

A key attraction of the Bol d'Or is the blend of cutting-edge technology and traditional sailing. Ultra-fast TF35 catamarans, capable of speeds exceeding 60 km/h in favorable conditions, will compete alongside classic monohulls and popular sailboat classes, preserving the heritage of sailing on Lake Geneva. Seven TF35s are expected, including the defending champion Realteam Spirit, skippered by Jérôme Clerc, and Yann Guichard's Sails of Change 8, a primary rival.

However, the lake's capricious weather means other vessels could surprise. The return of the Décision 35 Okalys, now helmed by Arnaud Grange, is highly anticipated. Similarly, M2 catamarans and Christian Wahl's Double You Team are known to perform exceptionally well in challenging winds. Among the monohulls, notable technical advancements are expected. The two Psaros 40s, skippered by François Thorens and Jean Psarofaghis, underwent significant winter refits to boost performance. One, renamed "Cellcosmet," was substantially modified, retaining only a small portion of its original hull. The other now features a lightweight, retractable electric motor, reflecting the growing focus on technology and environmental concerns in the sailing world.

“

The Bol d’Or remains above all a great festival of the lake.