'Racing for the Planet' wins first edition of Mirpuri Foundation Sailing Trophy
Skipper Yoann Richomme led his team to victory over two days on the waters off Portugal
The Mirpuri Foundation Racing Team - 'Racing for the Planet' - has taken line honours on both legs of the inaugural Sailing Trophy
The two-stage regatta between Cascais and Sesimbra was created in partnership with Clube Naval de Cascais to raise awareness and important funds for marine conservations projects. More than 50 boats took part in the event, racing to take home a share of the prize pool of over €30,000.
The Sailing Trophy was the first race outing for Mirpuri Foundation Racing Team, led by skipper Yoann Richomme, on board Racing for the Planet. The team won the first leg in light wind conditions, reaching Sesimbra one hour before the rival VO65, 'Sisi', from The Austrian Ocean Race Project, who finished in third place overall.
"We had fun today, improving every day. We finally had some wind and went fast. The team is working really hard," said Sisi skipper Gerwin Jansen.
In Sunday’s return leg to Cascais, the Mirpuri team continued its winning pace, leading throughout in tricky upwind conditions to take line honours in a clean sweep of the event.
“A first win for a team is always incredibly special and to celebrate this victory in Cascais, the home of our team, is all the more significant," said skipper Richomme.
"I really enjoyed this weekend’s racing. It was a privilege to race with such a talented crew and I’d like to thank them for joining me on board Racing for the Planet to make our first race extra special.
"I’d also like to thank The Mirpuri Foundation for the measures that they put in place from the beginning to and allow us to go racing safely. It has been a big success for everyone."