Among the 90 boats at the start (all identical, small 6.50 metre sailboats) is one skippered by Aymeric le Renard, 39 years old, married, two children. A few months ago, Aymeric contacted the “Fondation Don Bosco” in Paris to propose associating the Salesian network with this incredible sporting and human adventure. His wish was indeed to sail while supporting a cause related to young people and social inclusion, and he had been fascinated by the actions of the Salesian network in France and in Guadeloupe in particular, around the Lakou Bosco Work. For the Salesian Family, this request seemed symbolic, especially in this year when we celebrate 150 years since the departure of the first missionary expedition.

The sails were decorated with motifs reminiscent of Don Bosco and the phrase ‘Believing in young people’ was printed on them, in five languages (French, English, Italian, German and Arabic). In addition, several Salesian Foundations - Don Bosco Mission Austria and the Swiss Don Bosco Jugendhilfe Weltweit - and the “Don Bosco Network” NGO joined the project and their names therefore appear on the hull.

It was therefore decided to support the Lakou Bosco work in Guadeloupe through the purchase of a minibus to enable the young people to travel during their activities.

Many young people from French Salesian schools have also been involved in this charitable ocean crossing, such as the pupils of Saint Chély-d'Apcher, Ressins and Gradignan, who will prepare the meals that the skipper will enjoy during his journey. The Salesian Campus de Pouillé House will donate fruit, while the boys from Don Bosco Liban will prepare dried fruit rations.

The “Mini Transat”, created in 1977, takes place every two years. It is a race in its own right in the world of ocean racing: a challenge in which human endeavour exceeds technology, in which each skipper overcomes his own limits in the face of the elements. Many famous skippers such as Michel Desjoyeaux, Ellen MacArthur or Loïck Peyron took their first steps in this race.

More information is available on the “Fondation Don Bosco” website.

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