Jean-Pierre Dick awarded

Virbac Paprec skipper announced as Sailor of the Year

Yesterday evening at Théâtre Edouard VII in Paris, during the Soirée des Champions, for the first time in his career, Jean Pierre Dick won the Sailor of the Year Award 2011. This title marks an exceptional 2011 for the Virbac Paprec skipper, with two double-handed wins in the Barcelona World Race with Loïck Peyron and the Transat Jacques Vabre with Jérémie Beyou. The jury also paid tribute to Dick's career, which has included five major victories on the IMOCA circuit.

Contacted by videoconference as he is competing in the Transat B to B, Dick gave his reaction: “It's wonderful, fabulous; it's a really emotional moment and I am very happy! I have had a fabulous year. I was not expecting this. I would like to thank Loïck and Jérémie for our combined work on the Barcelona World Race and Transat Jacques Vabre. My best moment in 2011 will remain the passing of Cape Horn during the Barcelona World Race. It was a moment of huge joy! It is so rewarding to pass this rock in the lead of an oceanic race.

"Ten years ago, I completely changed the course of my life to become a professional sailor. Ten years later, this crowning achievement is the recognition of the extraordinary work carried out by my team. We started out from nothing in 2001. Our sponsors joined us little by little, we built three high-performing boats and we are all enjoying a great adventure together. I am extremely proud that we have reached this point today. From a personal point of view, it is great recognition."