Mini yacht racer sails solo across the Atlantic with Danfoss’ support
The Transat 6.50 is one of the world’s biggest sailing events, with competitors sailing 6.5 metre long yachts single-handed from Europe to South America. The first stage, from La Rochelle in France to Madeira, begins on 16 September. The second stage crosses the equator, finishing in Salvador de Bahia in Brazil, where the first competitors are expected to arrive sometime towards the end of October.
One captain, Bertrand Delesne, will sail with support from Danfoss. As Thierry Philippe, sales manager of Danfoss Industrial Automation in France, says, “Bertrand has convinced us with his modesty, his willingness and his professionalism. The race and the man correspond with our values of efficiency, protection of the environment and courage. We are not the biggest sponsor of his boat, but we want to be one of the most supportive.”
Held every two years, the event was first established as a cheaper alternative to the growing expense of one-person offshore yacht racing. The boats are kept small and the race is seen by many as the ultimate test of man and boat. Danfoss has been a preferred supplier to the marine industry for many years, so sponsoring the event seemed a natural match.
This year is the event’s 30th anniversary, and it’s attracted 84 participants from 18 countries. As a global marine supplier, Danfoss is delighted to lend its support to the event. Thierry Philippe concludes, “We are very proud to support Bertrand in this challenge, and all of us at Danfoss wish him luck.”
By Thierry Philippe, Sales Manager