Maxi Banque Populaire XI, brimming with confidence
After a fierce, high-speed battle, Banque Populaire took second place in the Finistère Atlantique – Action Enfance regatta, coming in 26 minutes behind the winner.
The Maxi Banque Populaire XI, competing directly with the Maxi Edmond de Rothschild, proved equal to the challenge during the entire race. This performance, which forms part of the development plan of the Ultimate class maxi-trimaran, rewards the team's commitment and justifies all the hard work put in over the past few months. But, above all, it allows Armel Le Cléac'h to remain calmly confident as he prepares for the season’s major challenge: the Route du Rhum – Destination Guadeloupe transatlantic race.
Until the very end, the 6 crew members – Armel Le Cléac'h, Sébastien Josse, Ronan Lucas, Pierre-Emmanuel Hérissé, Thierry Chabagny, and Quentin Ponroy – did their very utmost as they vied for the final victory. They ended up crossing the finish line on Thursday evening, July 7th, just 26 minutes after their rivals with whom they had dueled relentlessly for 6 days, 5 hours and 54 minutes. During the 4,156 nautical miles of the race, they were frequently in the lead, were always on the offensive, and only missed victory by a whisker.
This year’s principal goal is now in sight: the Route du Rhum – Destination Guadeloupe due to begin on November 6th with Armel alone at the helm. More than ever, he will have what it takes to achieve his ambition. “This result gives us positive vibes,” says the skipper looking back over the race. “We have a fabulous boat, a fact that further boosts our enthusiasm.”
For further details, visit the Banque Populaire sailing website