On Thursday 12 June, the 29-year-old sailor presented her ambitious sporting and social project. Her IMOCA will fly the colours of the Quéguiner Group and the Petits Princes Association, in co-naming. The association, founded in 1987, turns the dreams of ill children into reality. In 2025, it will reach an emblematic milestone with 10,000 dreams fulfilled. This partnership with Quéguiner reflects a shared vision: dreams have a transformative power. For an ill child, it opens up a window of hope. For a sailor, it sets a course for excellence. For a company, it becomes a driving force for cohesion, meaning and action.
Élodie Bonafous' IMOCA named "Association Petits Princes - Quéguiner"
The first ‘generation 2028’ boat to be launched earlier this year and the sistership to Charlie Dalin's boat, winner of the Vendée Globe 2024, Élodie Bonafous' IMOCA was christened this Thursday. The Quéguiner Group - a major player in the building materials sector - has chosen to team up with the Petits Princes association, which makes the dreams of ill children come true.
I'm very pleased to be associated with the Petits Princes Association. When we met in Paris, I was touched by their energy and values, which echo my desire to get involved in strong, human causes. The link with health is particularly important to me, having studied in the field of sport and health. Flying their colours gives the project even more meaning. Their enthusiasm is communicative, and together we're going to experience a wonderful adventure, both sporting and human. Today marks the start of a new chapter: one of discovery, structuring and growth. It's perfect for me to start with a season with a crew - surrounded by experienced sailors from whom I'll be able to learn a lot. The first major events are approaching. The pace is quickening, the goals are becoming clearer and everything is becoming more concrete. It's a key stage, both exciting and formative.
Élodie
Bonafous
Association Petits Princes – Quéguiner skipper
This year, the skipper will be taking part in the Course des Capes crewed race, the Rolex Fastnet Race, the Défi Azimut - Lorient Agglomération and the Transat Café L'Or duo race. These are important steps to learn more about her boat before she competes in her first solo races, with a eye on the Vendée Globe 2028.
