Two boat testing comes to a close

As this week comes to a close, so too does the intensive two boat testing between Aviva and ECOVER 3 as part of the technical alliance forged between the two Open 60 campaigns.
During this period, Dee and Mike Golding have been based out of Plymouth and both parties have found it fascinating to see how the two boats have evolved separately since their launch in New Zealand. Up to this point the technical partnership has involved a great deal of information exchange between the Aviva Ocean Racing and Ecover teams but they have not spent any real time with the boats side by side, so were keen to make the most of this opportunity.

In the past few days the weather created ideal conditions and enabled these racing machines to make the most of every minute on the water testing the different variables. It has meant long days for everyone involved with both teams working well together.

To view the latest two boat testing video click here

Dee, Aviva and the team have now made their way back from Plymouth to their base in Gosport and are preparing for a very special occasion this Sunday.  Lady Pippa Blake, widow of celebrated sailor and Dee’s long-time inspiration Sir Peter Blake, and France’s best known news presenter Patrick Poivre d’Arvor will wish Aviva and her skipper safe passage during the Vendée Globe as they are appointed Godparents to the Open 60 yacht this weekend. Appointing godparents is a long standing French tradition and Dee is delighted that two such prominent figures have agreed to bless Aviva.

To find out about Dee's Open 60 Campaign please click here