Pip Hare joins Canada Ocean Racing for 2025 campaign

Canada Ocean Racing has confirmed that British offshore sailor Pip Hare will join its Be Water Positive campaign for the 2025 edition of The Ocean Race Europe.

Hare is scheduled to sail alongside Canadian skipper Scott Shawyer and a four-person crew on each leg of the race. Her involvement includes the role of watch leader, and she will contribute to strategy and performance management on board throughout the event.

Hare gained international recognition during the 2020 to 2021 Vendée Globe, where she competed solo. Since then, she has remained active in the IMOCA fleet and recently managed a ‘devastatating’ dismasting incident during the 2024 Vendée Globe.

Pip Hare speaks about ‘hurt’ as newer boats ‘pull away’ in Vendée Globe 13 December 2024

Hare has recently announced her intention to compete in the next Vendée Globe in 2028.

“Pip is a ruthless competitor with a huge heart,” says Scott Shawyer, president and skipper of Canada Ocean Racing. “She brings a rare mix of tenacity, experience, and humanity to the team. Her ability to dig deep and lead through action will be a huge asset to us.”

The announcement coincides with the team taking possession of a new foiling IMOCA yacht, due to be announced shortly. This vessel forms part of a four-year campaign leading to Shawyer’s intended participation in the 2028 to 2029 Vendée Globe.

Hare adds: “I’m really excited to be joining Scott and the Canada Ocean Racing team for The Ocean Race Europe this year. Having been fully focused on solo sailing for the last four years, it’s going to be a great change of pace to join a team and bring my own experience to a more powerful force. The Ocean Race Europe offers a challenging, fast-paced course. We’re expecting diverse conditions and relentless competition across the different legs.

“Scott has bought a boat with incredible pedigree, and I’m looking forward to working with the Canada Ocean Racing team to unlock its full potential on the race track.”