Hugo Marchand is the latest young French star to enter World Championship competition, following in the footsteps of current stars such as Regis Laconi, Olivier Jacque and Randy De Puniet. French Junior Cup winner in 1998, Marchand contested the 125 French Championship in 1999 and 2000 before stepping up to the 250 class last season, when he finished fourth. The 21 year old also took part in five of the eight rounds of the 250 European Championship in 2001, finishing in 26th position overall. He continues his education this season in the 250 World Championship as part of the Equipe de France Scrab GP team alongside fellow hopeful Vincent Philippe.