AFTER completing her first Vendée Globe race just a few months ago, British ocean sailor, Pip Hare, has laid down her intentions to compete at the front of the next round-the-world race in 2024.

Having renewed her partnership with international software company, Medallia, Hare plans to return for the next solo, non-stop race in three year's time - and she’s already got the boat for the job.

After achieving a 19th finish in last year's race, Pip hope that her new, younger foil boat will shoot her to the front of the pack as she looks to better herself across her two-race campaign.

Pip said: “Medallia and I have had a fantastic partnership over the last year - they made a huge difference to my 2020/21 Vendée Globe race when they joined my campaign just five months before the start of the race.

“So having them with me now, at the very start of my 2024 campaign is brilliant - their support has given me the chance to secure the boat that will take me round the world in about three years’ time.

“I’m now determined to spend those years training, upgrading and finessing and I can’t wait to see what Medallia and I will achieve together in the lead up to the next Vendée.”

Medallia’s President and Chief Executive Officer Leslie Stretch said: “Everyone at Medallia is immensely impressed with Pip’s strength, relentless spirit, and compelling story – but her journey is far from over.

“We are proud to continue to stand with her as she faces new challenges and help her connect with her dedicated supporters in novel ways through our technology.”

In the 2020/21 edition of the around-the-world race, Pip pushed hard in one of the oldest boats in the fleet to finish 19th overall.

Bournemouth Echo:

She fought through ocean storms, replaced a broken rudder in the Southern Ocean and dealt with an allergic reaction to a jellyfish sting.

She became only the eighth woman to ever complete the race.

Pip added: “This Vendée Globe was everything I hoped it would be and more - it pushed me to my limits and beyond. But to me, this has always been a two-race campaign and my sights were always set on the 2024 race.

“This last edition was where I learned how to race solo round the world and honed my skills. Now I know what it takes, and I’ve got over three years to build my team, adapt the new boat to suit my sailing style and most importantly train my own skills.

“I was proud of my performance this time round - but, in 2024, I want to see if I can race with the big boys and girls at the front of the pack.”

Pip’s campaign is already off to a good start, with a 2016 IMOCA 60 already secured.

Bournemouth Echo: Poole sailor Pip Hare celebrates arriving at Poole Quay after completing the Vendee Globe yacht race last week

“I’m delighted to be taking on what was formally Bureau Vallee 2,” said Pip.

“It is a strong boat, with a great track record including the impressive third place achieved by Louis Burton in the last race.

“Stepping up to foils is going to be a big learning curve for me, but I am sure this is the right boat to take me there.”

Louis Burton, Skipper of Bureau Valley 2 in the Vendée Globe 20/21 said: "Bureau Vallée and I are proud and happy that Pip Hare and Medallia are purchasing Bureau Vallée 2.

“Pip has had an incredible Vendée Globe 2020. With this acquisition, she will be able to pursue her dream and prepare for 2024.

“I wish her all the best for the rest for a boat that brings luck."

Pip’s team will be working with the Bureau Vallee team to ensure a smooth handover of the boat in France, where it will also get a new Medallia livery before being brought back to Pip’s base in Poole later in the summer.

She added: “Of course, this is just the start of my 2024 campaign. Having Medallia onboard so early is brilliant, and together we are seeking other likeminded partners to join us for 2024.

“I’ve always said solo sailing makes me be the best version of myself – with Medallia’s backing, I’ve got a real opportunity to see just how good I can be in this sport.”