Wallyño claims victory in the IMA Mediterranean Maxi Inshore Challenge 2023 for the second time

Wallyño claims victory in the IMA Mediterranean Maxi Inshore Challenge 2023 for the second time

Flying the flag for the Yacht Club de Monaco, Wallyño, led by Benoît de Froidmont, clinched the title in the third edition of the IMA Mediterranean Maxi Inshore Challenge (MMIC) 2023, repeating their success from 2019. The 2023 edition was marked by their dominance throughout the circuit, culminating notably with victory at Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez.

Wallyño’s 2023 journey began under the Sorrento sun during the inshore races of the IMA European Maxi Championship, organized by the Circolo del Remo e della Vela Italia. Despite finishing third in their category, the crew showcased unwavering resolve, reaching a peak during the three days of inshore races in Saint-Tropez during the Rolex Giraglia. Wallyño’s triumph in its class was an encouraging omen, bolstered by an impressive second place in the combined inshore-offshore results of the Rolex Giraglia.

September brought challenges with the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup, the prestigious IMA event organized by the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda in Porto Cervo. Despite rough conditions, Wallyño navigated skillfully to a fifth place, thereby gaining a comfortable lead before approaching Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez. There, Wallyño’s supremacy was undeniable, seemingly sailing in a class of its own.

During the celebration of this victory, Benoît de Froidmont, tactician Cédric Pouligny, and the entire crew of Wallyño expressed sheer joy. The last regatta of the season was a climax, with mild weather conditions enhancing the boat’s performance. “Wallyño is truly in great shape!”, exclaimed a member of the YCM.

This triumph caps a remarkable regatta season, reflecting the excellence and camaraderie embodied by the spirit of the Yacht Club de Monaco. It also augurs well for continued success on the international nautical scene, with a crew and a boat ready to conquer new horizons.