TOUR DE LA MARTINIQUE DES YOLES RONDES
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One of the most anticipated events of the year! Seven sailing stages that go around the island and make hearts race!
For generations, the yawl races have been a source of passion for the Martinique people. Much awaited, the Tour des Yoles Rondes is a real moment of celebration, almost as much as the carnival. The competition takes place between the different towns of the Atlantic coast and is followed by thousands of spectators. The race starts in Fort-de-France and takes place in seven stages around the island.
Small robust boats with a curious square sail, yawls borrow their name from the Dutch word jol, which means "a light and elongated boat with a small draught". It was the first inhabitants of the island who transmitted the art of navigation to the Martinicans. The Caribbean Indians used to carve long dugout canoes from the trunk of gum trees, giant trees of the rainforest, generally reserved for this purpose. Nowadays, yawls are made of cedar or pear wood, but require no less attention to detail. One or two square sails, stretched by a diagonal yardarm, give them their propulsion force. During the Tour des Yoles Rondes, the crews' performances are often a balancing act, because in order not to capsize the keel-less yole, the members have to hang on to the oars… outside the boat! The most famous teams are those of Robert and François, but many Martinique towns are used to this local sport, which is particularly appreciated by the Martinicans.
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