IMOCA – 14^th Défi Azimut – Lorient

For five days the IMOCA world are in Lorient for the 14^th Défi Azimut – Lorient Agglomération. It is the last chance for these racing machines to compete against each other weeks before the start of the next Vendée Globe. Among them is Malizia-Seaexplorer, helmed by Boris Herrmann from Yacht Club de Monaco.

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A full programme awaits the 22 IMOCAs in competition. From tomorrow, Boris sailing with Will Harris will start the Runs, time trials where the goal is to post the fastest time possible between Croix Island and Lorient; several trials are allowed. On Thursday contestants line up for the start of the 48-Hour Azimut, a crucial event for sailors who can see how they measure up to their rivals barely two months before the Vendée Globe. It is a solo race although a cameraman is allowed onboard to capture the best action shots. Finally, on Sunday 15 September, the Défi Azimut concludes with the Tour de Croix Island with crew.

For Vendée Globe entrants any opportunity like this is a boon to validate choices, sort out any niggling technical issues and above all be 100% race-fit for the start of the Vendée Globe on 10^th November. In the lead of the IMOCA Globe Series, Boris Herrmann has racked up the most miles aboard his Malizia-Seaexplorer which is now fully prepared to go. With most of the favourites for the Vendée registered this Défi Azimut promises to be a thrilling few days for sailors and spectators alike.