France, in partnership with Costa Rica, is organizing the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice in June. On this occasion, a grand nautical parade named « The Armada of the United Nations » will take place. France will be represented by the round yole through the Martinique Yole Ronde Transmanche association.
The love between the people of Martinique and the round yole is enduring, largely due to the work of the Federation of Round Yoles, which regularly organizes competitions such as the championship, the Coupe de Martinique, the Challenge of the 22 Mé, and, above all, the Tour of Martinique’s Round Yoles. On December 17, 2020, the history of the round yole was recognized internationally with its inscription in UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage, initiated by the LYMPH association (The Yole of Martinique to the Heritage of Humanity). Since then, the Martinique Yole Ronde Transmanche association, led by Christophe Dédé, who is also a round yole skipper, has carried the torch by « exporting » this Martinican vessel and its history. The adventure began with a crossing of the English Channel (England – Calais), followed by a tour of Fort Boyard in La Rochelle, participation in prestigious regattas in Monaco and Cannes, and finally, joining the nautical parade of the Olympic flame in Marseille, followed by a stay in Corsica.
Official Invitation to Nice A letter from Olivier Poivre d’Arvor, the French Ambassador and Special Envoy for the United Nations Ocean Conference, addressed to Christophe Dédé, confirmed the presence of Martinique at UNOC3. « As you know, France, along with Costa Rica, is organizing the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in June in Nice. This will be the largest international gathering ever organized on ocean-related issues, and we are determined, with the Nice Agreement, to do for the ocean what was done for the climate with the Paris Agreement, ten years ago. In this context, the President of the Republic has requested a grand parade, named ‘The Armada of the United Nations,’ to animate the Baie des Anges on Sunday, June 8, in celebration of World Ocean Day. Heads of State and government, official delegations from the 193 UN member states, as well as a large public, will be present. The Armada will bring together an exceptional fleet of ships, which will also be welcomed at the Port of Nice from May 28 to June 14. We would be honored to have the round yole from the Martinique Yole Ronde Transmanche association participate. »
The delegation from Martinique will depart the Island of Flowers on June 4 and will arrive in Nice the following day. From June 5 to June 12, the Martiniquans will participate in several conferences and the « Armada of the United Nations, » along with additional visits planned. The round yole will once again present its best features outside of Martinique.
Marcelin Nadeau in the Delegation During this 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), several meetings will be held. The highlight of this gathering is scheduled for June 7 in Nice, with the theme « Rising Oceans and Resilience, » a topic that the former Mayor of Prêcheur and current deputy, Marcelin Nadeau, is well-versed in. He will speak on the expertise and experience of Caribbean officials in facing this phenomenon. « Martinique faces many risks related to climate change, including sea level rise, marine submersion, and coastal erosion. Thirteen communes are listed among the territories at risk from coastal retreat, as published by the government in April 2022, and they are adapting their urban planning policies. Each year, the ocean gains an average of one meter along Martinique’s coastline… Another threat to the coastal population and the island’s shores is marine soil erosion. »
The Martinique Delegation Thierry Boriel (François City), Christophe Dédé (Daaf Martinique), Olivier Luzier (Fast Dream), Alexandre Fage (Marin City), Guy and Paul Lila (Ducos City), Keelian Tareau (Fishing Committee), Thierry Priam (Robert City), Laura L’Henry (Lorrain City), Franck Bernabé (Fort-de-France City), Johany Voltine (BTS student), Sylvert Louis (BTS student), Yaito Donatien (BTS student), Elodie Apocale (Bachelor student), Anthony Tabar (Epla trainer), Alain Dédé (Fyrm/Myrt), Bernard Emmanuel-Emile (Myrt), Louis Michel (Fyrm), Jean-Michel Cotrebil (PNMM/OFB), Marcelin Nadeau (Deputy of Martinique)
Christophe Dédé, President of Martinique Yole Ronde Transmanche « December 17, 2020 marked the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the round yole of Martinique. This competitive boat has become, over time, a symbol of Martinique’s identity. The round yole is now inscribed in UNESCO’s heritage. This is thanks to the passion of the men and women who have made our boat the pride of all, and its greatest competition is the Tour of Martinique’s round yoles. An essential part of our cultural heritage, the round yole is a pillar of our tradition that has withstood the ages and brought Martinique together. The physical discovery of the round yole outside of Martinique is an additional card for promoting the destination. The magic of this unique vessel is a true asset for our Martinique. »
The Round Yole Mourns One of Its Figures The Federation of Round Yoles of Martinique (FYRM) announced yesterday, via social media, the passing of Alain Thaly at the age of 78, honoring him with a heartfelt tribute. A customs officer by profession and a union activist, Alain Thaly made a name for himself in the world of round yoles by becoming the general secretary of Alain Dédé in the 1987 election. An ex-courier of the baby-yole, he worked for its development, was a race commissioner and referee trainer alongside Alain Dabon, and also greatly contributed to improving the statutes and regulations. He did not run for election during Alain Dédé’s last candidacy in 2015. FYRM praises his « unwavering commitment, integrity, and rigor. Alain Thaly was a man of conviction, thoughtful, and deeply invested in everything he undertook. »
France-Antilles extends its deepest condolences to his two children, the entire family, and his loved ones.
The Last Race Canceled Initially moved to François due to swells on the North Atlantic coast, the 8th and final day of the baby-yole championship was canceled due to the arrival of sargassum from Friday night to Saturday. This cancellation is final, not a postponement. As a result, Ti Rotè/Sara is crowned the 2025 Martinique champion.
For reference, the 7th and penultimate day, held last Sunday in Trinité, allowed the Marinois crew of Ti Rotè/Sara to make another step towards the title. Despite two podium finishes, Ti Mas/Cottrell/Leader Mat could only hope for a significant failure of the Marinois to be crowned. The suspense was short-lived. Due to the cancellation of the last day, and in accordance with FYRM regulations, Ti Rotè/Sara is declared the 2025 Martinique champion based on the standings from the 7th day of the championship.
Source: martinique.franceantilles
