The 7th edition of the New Caledonia Groupama Race, 654 nautical miles of racing around the largest lagoon in the world, has come to an end.
The first international event in New Caledonia since the reopening of the borders, this race witnessed Australian, New Zealand and New Caledonian boats competing against each other. In the end, it was the Sydney 38 Eye Candy that gave New Caledonia the victory by outstripping its competitors in compensated IRC time (4 days, 8 hours 42 minutes and 13 seconds).
Once again, this year, the BCI was a partner of this race, which contributes to the influence of New Caledonia in the Pacific as well as in the world (for the record, the virtual Groupama Race on the “Virtual Regata” application brought together over 19,000 skippers).
Beyond the regatta, the Groupama Race is, above all, a time for exchange and sharing, during which supporters, sailing enthusiasts, partners and spectators gather in the race village to watch the sailors’ progress. Both breathtaking and magical, this race has thrilled the spectators on the quayside and given some good scares to the teams involved.
Many BCI collaborators and clients came to the marina to enjoy these moments together at sunset, or to have informal discussions in an idyllic location. BCI Private Banking also organised a private cocktail party there, which delighted its guests, far from the usual places.
The BCI has also increased its visibility on the water by associating itself with the team of a legendary boat (designed in 1973) from New Caledonia, the Brer Fox. The sports project supported by the bank and by Tugdual Piriou, experienced skipper and owner, is presented in a 26-minute short film produced for the occasion. We invite you to discover it here:
The BCI Brer Fox led most of the race. Unfortunately, the weather conditions during the last 10 hours of the race made them fall to to the 5th place in the IRC. But this is only the beginning of a beautiful story that will last for several years, between the BCI and the BCI Brer Fox, who share strong values such as team spirit, overcoming oneself and love of the lagoon.
The Groupama Race is therefore coming to an end after a week of racing, race points, smiles and sailing. The BCI is proud to have been able to accompany a team as determined and persevering as that of the BCI Brer Fox and we look forward to seeing you on the Pacific waters.
