Gaining Momentum
Since my last update less than two weeks ago, we have made significant progress in this campaign! Plenty of good news to follow.
The initial list of pre-registrations for the 2023 Mini Transat was published and we have officially earned a spot on the main list! Over 150 skippers signed up with only 90 spots available. A third of the entries are allocated to the prototype, another third to the series boats, and the final third are distributed to the next available boats to qualify. Within the series fleet, there are currently 95 FULLY qualified skippers for just 54 available slots. Since I now have the 8th most miles raced in my boat (almost 5k nm), this means I easily secured my entry after a successful two seasons preparing for this event. All series and additional spots are filled, with an additional 45 series Minis fully qualified and on the waiting list.
The growth of the Classe Mini fleet and enthusiasm for the Mini Transat is at a historic level. In years past, skippers could compete for entry in just one or two years. Now it is closer to three years. For example, the qualification requirement is a 1,000 nm solo sail (see mine here) plus 1,500 nm of racing in the class. Since entry spots are limited, the next determination is number of miles raced going into the final season. To make the main list this year, skippers had to of raced over 3,500 nm in their boat. That is a lot of miles in a small boat! Seven of the skippers on the waiting list even raced in the Les Sables-Azores-Les Sables race last year (2,600 nm), which previously guaranteed entry. While the rules are detailed (I spare you all the technicalities!), most are unsure how they actually stack up in the fleet until January when this first list is released. With boats primarily racing in France (Atlantic and Mediterranean), Spain, Italy, and international sailors from outside of Europe, there are many unknown factors due to the surge Classe Mini interest.
Speaking at the Corinthian Yacht Club of Philadelphia
Last week I went to the Corinthian Yacht Club of Philadelphia (CYCOP) for two events. First, I really enjoyed the opportunity to share more about this adventure with fellow club members. For some it was an update on this past season and what this year has in store coming up. For others, it was their first time hearing about the Mini Transat and U.S. Patriot Sailing. For the club members who missed the talk and want to learn more, check out the link to a recording of the talk here: https://youtu.be/P-MteUVNovA Every talk is tailored to the audience, so if your club is interested reach out!
A few days later I returned to CYCOP for the annual Peter Gibbons-Neff trap shoot, where we shoot clay discs over the Delaware River in the winter. The morning was crisp and calm for the first round, very fitting for this important day. This January marked the ten year anniversary of my father’s passing and the members were incredible in remembering him. He loved this club and everyone who makes it such a special place. The stories shared by friends who knew him well helped bring joy (and much needed laughter) to such a difficult loss of someone I loved very much. Seeing a picture of my father in the trap house means so much to me.
Standing next to a picture of my father in the CYCOP trap house
Huge THANK YOU to everyone at CYCOP who came out for both events and to those who have believed in me throughout this campaign. In addition to the emotional support, the members really came together with incredible donations to help launch this campaign into the Mini Transat. They saw what it takes to make it to this big race and are a key part of making it a reality. Thank you!!!!
As I prepare to head back to France this spring, I am focused on planning the foundation for a successful season of racing. The administrative and logistical planning required is well underway and funding this campaign is a critical aspect. The overwhelming support from donors and sponsors is driving excellent momentum. Switlik Survival Products and Folk Design Group (a Great Clips franchise with salons in PA, NJ, DE, and MD) both committed to once again supporting this mission. Looking forward to sharing more details about their support soon! If you are interested in donating or sponsoring, please contact me at peter@pgnoceanracing.com.
U.S. Patriot Sailing continues to excel in supporting the veteran community and was recognized for transparency with a 2022 Platinum Transparency Seal. With established teams located in Annapolis, MD; Solomons, MD; and San Diego CA; the team is expanding to Seattle, WA! Through the support from donations of boats, sails, equipment, and funding, this non-profit organization has a bright future. Just the other week I helped with receiving the delivery of multiple sets of sails for the Annapolis based Melges 24, which helps keep that boat sailing for years to come. With local sailing mostly on pause for the holidays, I am looking forward to getting back out on the water TOMORROW with the team for Annapolis frostbite racing…more to follow soon!
