Imagine the thrill of the wind in your hair, the salt on your lips, and the boundless expanse of the sea stretching out before you. This September, 2023, from the 19th to the 24th, the rugged shores of North Brittany will play host to an extraordinary event – the Defi Azimut.
Every year, this maritime extravaganza weaves together the pulse-quickening excitement of speed runs, the relentless endurance of a 48-hour race, and the charm of a tour around the captivating island of Groix. The event has been steadily gaining momentum, drawing a growing number of competitors eager to test their mettle.
The heart of the Defi Azimut lies in its array of challenges – from heart-pounding speed trials to the grueling 48-hour D’Azimut race and the exhilarating Chrono Tour de Groix. It’s a unique blend of adrenaline, strategy, and sheer skill.
This event is a fusion of two worlds: the revered IMOCA Class, home to the legendary Vendée Globe skippers, and the visionary minds at Azimut, a company rooted in Lorient. It’s not just a race; it’s a convergence of performance, innovation, and strategic brilliance. Here, competitive spirit mingles seamlessly with social camaraderie, creating an experience that continues to captivate and grow year after year.
The Thrilling Itinerary:
Tuesday, September 19, 2023
– 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Engage in HIT/MIXITE/IMOCA “Societal Commitment” workshops.
– 3:00 pm: Watch as all boats gather in the port.
– 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm: Dive into the grand Opening ceremony of the Défi Azimut Lorient Agglomération (by invitation only).
Wednesday, September 20, 2023
– 10:45 am: See competitors set sail from the pontoons.
– 12:00 pm: Launch of the Runs Azimut Bretagne, an electrifying speed challenge.
– 7:00 pm: Join the closing of the line, a moment of exhilarating anticipation.
– 8:00 pm: Witness the Runs Azimut Bretagne prize-giving ceremony, where triumph and glory take center stage.
Thursday, September 21, 2023
– 2:00 pm: Watch in awe as IMOCA boats embark on their journey from the port.
– 3:30 pm: Experience the heart-pounding start of the 48H Azimut, an ultimate test of skill and endurance.
Friday, September 22, 2023
– (By invitation only)
– 09:00: Engage in insightful round tables covering topics from AI in design to piloting and energy strategy.
– 14:00: Delve into discussions on Foil & Co Foil Racing.
– 16:00: Stay updated on America’s Cup, with the latest trends and updates.
Saturday, September 23rd, 2023
– (By invitation only)
– 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm: Witness the triumphant return of boats, a celebration of endurance and resilience.
– 7:00 pm: Join the grand Prize-giving ceremony, where champions are hailed.
Sunday, September 24, 2023
– 11:30 am: Bid adieu to IMOCA boats as they set forth on the Tour de l’Ile de Groix.
– 1:00 pm: Witness the exhilarating start of the Tour de l’Ile de Groix.
– 5:00 pm: The grand finale – the Azimut Challenge prize-giving ceremony, a moment of triumph and celebration hosted by Lorient Agglomération.
This event, nestled in the captivating landscape of Groix Island, is a true testament to the synergy of strategy and performance. The crews will strategize and perform to surpass records, all against the stunning backdrop of the North Brittany coast.
Azimut, a stalwart partner in the marine industry, stands at the forefront of this event. With clients ranging from the esteemed IMOCA Class to the dynamic Figaro Class, Azimut’s innovative solutions have found a home in the heart of sailing excellence.
So mark your calendars for this spectacular event, where the sea meets speed, strategy meets skill, and camaraderie meets competition. The Defi Azimut Challenge promises a week of unforgettable adventure in the dazzling waters of North Brittany.
Photo Credit: defi-azimut.net