– We have seen some great content with you and Armel Le Cleac’h sailing side by side at the arrival of the Vendee Globe. How was your day on the water?
It has been a really long and intensive day. It was quite tough to determine the time of arrivel of Armel in Les sables D’olonnes. Besides it was freezing cold that day with NE wind and only 2 degrees. Still I decided to go out with my boat and my brother; who was riding it. We went straight out for a full hour since I preferred a place without to many other boats. The moment we saw Banque populaire I rigged up my gear and jumped in. I was so overexcited that I forgot to put on my gloves; this might have been the mistake of the day!

– Armel has had an extraordinary experience, his solitary sailing world tour of 74 days. What do you think of his achievement?
What an achievement. In my opinion it is one of the most radical and crazy sailing boat races ever. Not a single person can imagine what these people are going through all by themselves fighting with the elements. This is one of the reasons I decided to meet Armel as soon as he arrived. I did the same with Francois gabard 4 years ago, unfortunately the conditions were not that good at that time. 

– How was it to surf next to Armel? Was it harder than expected or did you manage?
It did not feel as a burden or a challenge at all, it was more a dream for me to surf there with him. It seemed that he was quite surprised too. A week before the happening I sent him a message that I would probable be there at his arrival; he was very content and happy about it. 

– What board were you riding, how would you compare it with Armel’ board concerning speed?
I used the H-Fire 91 (new RRD Windsurf Hydrofoil Board). Besides I was using a Neilpryde Evo9 8.6. I was quite confident since I have all my trust in my gear and know how to use it. I was sailing faster than Armel, though he was riding more upwind. 

– Do you have any other plans for such projects in the future?
Currently my plan is to focus and train on the slalom. Possibly I will go to the south of France to train. Really looking forward to coming season, I now know that my gear is on point and feel very confident about it.