COUSIN® PARTNER – A look back at the 2025 CAPS RACE
From 23 June to 6 July 2025, Boulogne-sur-Mer was buzzing with excitement for the very first edition of the Course des Caps. Twelve Imoca boats competed in a race against the clock around the British Isles. COUSIN® was delighted to be involved in this local maritime adventure as an official partner. Being present at the Course des Caps is a natural step for our French rope manufacturer, which places performance at the heart of its DNA. By supporting this sporting event, we are confirming our commitment to those involved in sailing and sailing enthusiasts.
At the COUSIN® stand, located in the heart of the start village, visitors and participants had the opportunity to discover the diversity and quality of our ropes manufactured in France. Our teams welcomed the public to present the different ranges adapted to coastal and offshore sailing and the specific needs of skippers. Technical demonstrations of braiding and rigging took place throughout this first week of summer. The aim was to provide a better understanding of the characteristics of the fibres and the advantages of the innovations developed by the Group.
Beyond a simple product presentation, we wanted our presence to be a festive and convivial occasion with our employees, customers and partners. Interactive activities were offered throughout the event: introductory workshops on nautical knots, splicing demonstrations, fun quizzes on the history of ropes and navigation, and round table discussions. These accessible activities allowed families, curious visitors and enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the maritime world in an educational and entertaining way.
Lovers of high-quality ropes had the opportunity to purchase a selection of COUSIN® ropes and items on site. Whether for equipping a sailboat, dinghy or paddleboard, or for more traditional or original uses, everyone was able to leave with a durable, high-performance product, directly from our French production facilities.
In terms of competitors, COUSIN® supported its regional skipper, Thomas Ruyant, a long-standing partner, and his team under the colours of TRR and, for the first time, MAPEI.
Throughout the race, the Imoca skippered by Ruyant showed great fighting spirit: at one point, the crew managed to climb to second place behind the leader. Unfortunately, the race took a dramatic turn in the northern part of the English Channel. As the crew passed off the coast of Fraserburgh (Scotland), a serious accident occurred: the mast foot gave way, causing the mast to slip. Unable to repair the damage at sea in these conditions, the team was forced to abandon the race and head for a Scottish port. This abandonment marred an edition in which competition was fierce and the start from Boulogne-sur-Mer had captured the attention of sailing enthusiasts.
The 2025 Race of the Capes was won by MACIF Santé Prévoyance, skippered by Sam Goodchild, who is very familiar with COUSIN® ropes, having sailed with our rigging throughout the 2024 Vendée Globe.