Antonin Chapot, a Wichard partner, is not just a skipper in the Classe Mini 6.50; he is also deeply committed to the Espérance Banlieues association, which works toward equal opportunities.
Hailing from Clermont-Ferrand, Antonin grew up not far from Thiers, where Wichard's manufacturing plant is located. 👷♂️
He frequently sails near Lorient, but also La Turballe, close to our offices in Pornichet, Loire-Atlantique.
It was only natural that we would meet, exchange ideas, and collaborate! 😉
Of course, Antonin’s involvement with schools truly resonated with us. This young athlete immediately wanted to combine performance with public service.
At the beginning of the year, he has already visited two elementary school classes, in Le Mans and Angers.
He shares his experience:
"In my offshore racing project, I quickly realized that everything was very self-centered—seeking sponsors, focusing on my performance, making my project an absolute priority. I felt the need to give it meaning beyond the purely sporting aspect. Meeting the students from Espérance Banlieues allowed me to share a passion they might never have had access to. It was a unique opportunity to introduce them to the sea, an unfamiliar world for many of them, and to show them that curiosity and ambition can open doors.
During each visit, I started by introducing myself and sharing my offshore racing journey. [...] The most striking part was the interactive experience: the students got to try on my gear, learn how a sailor eats and sleeps, handle ropes, and more. These moments of sharing and exchange are what gave true meaning to this experience.
[...] I have chosen to visit them multiple times and set up a way for them to continue following my project and asking questions throughout the year."
Of course, we invite you to follow this skipper with a big 💙!
Here is his race schedule:
- La Pornichet Select
- The Mini en Mai
- The MAP Trophy
- The Tour de Bretagne (in Figaro 3)
- The Puru Transgascogne
- The Mini Transat