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UpWind by MerConcept is poised for a transformative season as it prepares for the 2026 Route du Rhum - Destination Guadeloupe with French skipper Anne-Claire Le Berre at the helm. This solo endeavor in an Ocean Fifty multihull marks a significant milestone not just for the team, but for women in offshore racing.
Le Berre's challenge showcases her exceptional endurance, technical skill, and mental strength as she navigates a competitive fleet. The partnership with 11th Hour Racing amplifies this moment, emphasizing a mission of diversity, inclusion, and ocean stewardship in the sport. Lorraine McKenna, sponsorship director at 11th Hour Racing, highlights the broader impact, stating the evolution of the Ocean Fifty class as teams adopt mixed crews and change their practices.
After two years of development, UpWind by MerConcept has reached a critical level of maturity, with invaluable lessons learned from the Transat Café L'Or. Team Manager Louis Giard emphasizes that 2026 symbolizes the culmination of their efforts, featuring a female skipper competing solo across the Atlantic.
The Ocean Fifty has undergone a vital refit, optimizing every aspect for solo performance. Each modification enhances efficiency, ensuring Le Berre is primed for success. This season promises to redefine expectations in offshore sailing.
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