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Smartappart Lorient - 06/07/2022

Lorient la Base will be the starting port of the transatlantic solo race Transat CIC 2024

Lorient la Base will be the starting port of the transatlantic solo race Transat CIC 2024

The oldest solo transatlantic race will write a new chapter from Lorient for its next two editions. Located in the heart of the Breton Sailing Valley, the port of Lorient la Base (English translation) reinforces the global character of its offshore racing division. After the prologue of the Globe40 in June 2022 and the Lorient – Bermuda - Lorient in 2023, it adds a new mythical race to its list of achievements.

A new race on the Lorient Grand Large calendar

For several years, this Breton territory has been wide open to innovation and offshore racing. The Lorient offshore racing pole is a pole of excellence where the major offshore racing teams lodge and train all year round. After the port of Brest, the port of Lorient therefore has all the legitimacy to be the anchor port of the competition. "The CIC's attachment to Brittany, its commitment to the regional economic fabric and the recognition of the quality of its maritime infrastructures make Lorient the perfect launching pad for a race" declares Daniel Baal, Director General of the CIC. 

A mythical race

In 1960, British sailors wondered if they were able to cross the Atlantic alone and in how long: the Transat CIC was born. Its route is a challenge marked by difficulties covering more than 3000 miles in the North Atlantic, between the European and American continents. The spring season and the periodicity every four years accentuates all the more the prestige of this solo ocean race in which all generations of sailors have distinguished themselves. The last ocean confrontation before the Vendée Globe, the Transat CIC 2024 is a flagship event with high stakes.

A long-standing commitment

As of 2020, the CIC and the Brittany Region  (English translation) had assured the organizers of their continued support. This solid partnership makes it possible to approach the next two editions with serenity.

The economic benefits are certain for Lorient companies with more than 650 jobs in Lorient, including 480 at La Base. But the fallout will radiate throughout the territory. "Lorient, the Brittany Region and the CIC will offer this race all the dimension it deserves. This is a chance for us, the organizers, to set sail for this 2024 edition knowing that everything is in place to make it a success, for the sailors and for the general public," concludes Joseph Bizard, General Manager of OC Sport Pen Duick. 

The event will also celebrate the 60th anniversary of the victory of Eric Tabarly who shone brilliantly in this race.

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