2021 CIC Normandy Channel Race: Ian Lipinski and his Crédit Mutuel Class40 are ready for a new campaign!

Although the season began on a rocky note due to the health crisis and the weather conditions, the crew of the Crédit Mutuel Class40 took advantage of that time to fine-tune their preparations and optimize their technical choices. “We did some excellent group training with the other Class40s of the Lorient Grand Large team during the winter. I hope it will stand us in good stead. But our competitors have also been working hard and we know we will be sailing against Class40s of a very similar standard”, stresses Ian Lipinski.

Gwénolé Gahinet will be Ian Lipinski’s co-skipper during the race. Already very well acquainted with each other, both on land and at sea, the two sailors honed their racing style during last year’s Dhream Cup, which they won. And they both agree: “We have prepared to win our place on the podium again! It is within reach, but we must give it everything we’ve got, 24/7!"

Gwénolé Gahinet’s enthusiasm is clear: "I am delighted to take on this new challenge with Ian. I have known him for a long time. What I like about him is his openness and his ability to take on any task. I also adore the Class40 category. The atmosphere feels like the “Ministes” with excellent, hyper efficient boats, despite the fixed keel, which depart swiftly in “luge” mode. All of this makes for a very enjoyable regatta." Having already competed in the Mini and Figaro classes, “Gwéno” is a much-valued crew member. He holds the Jules-Verne trophy for Francis Joyon’s Idec and also raced the Brest Atlantiques on François Gabart's Ultim’ 32/23 trimaran.

Just a few days to go now before the dream team takes off for the 2021 CIC Normandy Channel Race. In the words of Nicolas Théry, Chairman of Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale, “the work done this winter will undoubtedly reap rewards. Ian and Gwénolé also know they can count on the support of all the elected representatives and employees of Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale. We will all be cheering them on. It promises to be a gripping race and we wish every success to our two skippers, who are more determined than ever.”

Stay tuned to this exciting event at www.skippercreditmutuel.fr!