Plymouth youngster to tackle plastic pollution by sailing in gruelling offshore race
Paddy Hutchings, 21, has announced his plans to enter the Solitare Du Figaro in 2022 in order to raise awareness of ocean plastic pollution. The gruelling race, commonly known as the Solo Offshore World Championships, will take place in August this year and spans 2000nm around the French coast.
“Incredibly excited to announce my intention to compete in the Solitare Du Figaro in 2022,” says Hutchings, who was born in Plymouth, UK.
Hutchings will be competing in order to raise awareness of plastic pollution. He says: “We want to use the platform competing in the Solitare gives us to promote change and prevent as much plastic getting into our water.
“#Sail4Sustainability will focus on two main areas. Firstly through education, in which we hope to work with local schools in Plymouth. Secondly, through industry, pushing for businesses to become more sustainable around their choices of plastic.”
Hutchings is dedicated to the cause, with 98 per cent of his racing gear made of recycled material, according to PlymouthLive. Hutchings is sponsored by Gill Marine, a company that has cut back on its use of plastic.
The sailor has previously represented GB in multiple classes at National, European and World level, winning numerous National and European championships.
Readers can watch this video to see Hutchings in action during training earlier this month:
