Believe, Belong, Achieve: bigger than the race

© Julien Champolion - polaRYSE / 11th Hour Racing

In a few days I’ll be on the start line of the Route du Rhum – Destination Guadeloupe, my first solo transatlantic. I’m leading the IMOCA Globe Series and I want to race hard. But this crossing is about more than a result.

I’ve spent my whole life trying to find my place in sailing. Now I’m working to make sailing a place for more people.

Olympic Games, America’s Cup, The Ocean Race... As an openly LGBTQ+ athlete, I’ve often sailed in spaces that weren’t built for people like me. That experience is at the heart of Believe, Belong, Achieve, the impact program I lead with our title partner, 11th Hour Racing.

From belief to action

The 2×25 study surveyed nearly 2,500 people in 68 countries in 2025, and its finding was clear. Being on the start line isn’t enough. We also need to know who progresses, who coaches, who leads, and who feels welcome enough to stay.

Through workshops, internships and a Sailing Instructor Program, Believe, Belong, Achieve gives clubs, coaches and teams practical tools to build more inclusive, higher-performing environments. It’s open to everyone, not just women.

For me, belonging isn’t just important in sport. It’s essential in life.

Where to find us

  • 22 October: Inclusion Day, with a BBA workshop from 2 to 4pm. Sign up here

  • 23 October: Round table on inclusion, maritime engagement and local impact with the Société Nautique de la Baie de Saint-Malo

  • 26 & 27 October: Meeting young sailors from “La Mer est à Vous” and local partners

  • Guadeloupe: Visiting local sailing schools after the finish

Believe. Belong. Achieve. It’s not a slogan. It’s the course I’m steering, on the water and off it.

👉 Discover the program · Want a workshop in your organisation? purpose@team7sailing.com

Next
Next

VIDEO I The Ocean Race Atlantic Recap