The enthusiasm for this first edition of the MED MAX Occitanie - Saïdia Resorts continues to grow as the start approaches. With bright sunshine, mild temperatures and a perfect wind waving flags and snapping shrouds, Saturday proved that sailing is a dream come true and still attracts just as many people, young and old, sailors and landlubbers alike.

Families, couples, groups, fascinated by the technical aspects of the racing boats, enticed by the scents of the foodtrucks, attracted by the products on offer at the stands, or interested by the events and conferences on offer, it was a never-ending parade all day long. The autograph hunt became the game of the day, as the skippers, even in the midst of preparing for their imminent departure, made themselves available to please everyone, lighting up stars in the eyes of the children. And the organisers were delighted by the growing enthusiasm surrounding the first edition of this ocean race from Port-Camargue to Morocco.

And on Sunday, when the 25 competitors set off under full sail, records will be broken both on land and at sea. On the quays and throughout the thirty nautical miles or so that will take the fleet to the buoy off Sète. Before the big plunge out to sea.