Our purpose
The race is on
Yacht Coatings supporting two teams in elite sailing event
Two of the boats competing in the latest edition of The Ocean Race have been coated with high-performance products supplied by our Yacht Coatings business.
The WindWhisper Racing Team’s VO65 and Paul Meilhat’s IMOCA (Biotherm) boat both feature products from our Awlgrip range and will display our Awlgrip logo. They will also receive expert support during the demanding five-month event.
Following an in-port race in Alicante, Spain, on January 8, the race itself will officially begin on January 15. The foiling IMOCA fleet will sail the full 32,000 nautical mile (60,000 km) route, while the VO65s will take on a shorter challenge, competing for the inaugural The Ocean Race VO65 Sprint Cup – which features three stages of racing that match legs one, six and seven of the around the world race.
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with some of the world’s best sailors for what will no doubt be a grueling test of performance and endurance,” says Jemma Lampkin, Commercial Director of AkzoNobel’s Yacht Coating business. “We’ve worked closely with the WindWhisper Racing Team and Paul Meilhat’s Biotherm team on the exact specification required to cope with the challenges they’ll be facing. Direct collaboration with users of our products is so important and we pride ourselves on giving the best support possible.”
In addition to providing much-needed protection for the two vessels as they navigate the various stages of the race, our yacht coatings products will also help to enhance their appearance – ensuring that they look great as well.
“The race is always an exciting spectacle and we’ll be following it all the way,” continues Lampkin. “We wish both teams smooth sailing and the very best of luck.”
The sailing event is due to finish in Genoa, Italy, at the end of June.
Awlgrip finishes
Find out more about our hull, deck, interior and bilge coatings for protection and aesthetics.
