Arrival of the Pogo RC
The announcement of a new Pogo Structures sailboat is always a small event in French sailing circles. Particularly when the South Finistere-based builder leaves its usual market. The yard has unveiled the first images of a 10.26 m sailboat designed for IRC regattas. The boat, the brainchild of Sam Manuard and Bernard Nivelt, should benefit from the successful experience of the duo behind the 39-foot carbon prototype Lan Aël 3, built at Lalou Multi and launched in April 2023. A few weeks later, the latter won the Spi Ouest France, continuing its winning streak in La Trinité Cowes and Cowes-Dinard.
A boat with the Pogo spirit
While detailed technical specifications are not yet available, we do know that the boat will benefit from the combined experience of the architects in the IRC class and the shipyard in its high-quality sandwich construction. According to the shipyard, the boat is designed to be "innovative, simple, fun and gliding, fast like the Pogo, but this time designed to defend its IRC rating well." The boat, designed for solo, double-handed or crewed sailing, will be homologated in category A to compete in the entire IRC program, from the Fastnet to the Transquadra, as well as inshore events. The interior should remain fairly ascetic "sober, without luxury or unnecessary accessories, specifically designed for racing navigation."
An ever-richer IRC market
While Pogo had steered clear of the IRC class to stay in 100% offshore sailing, we may be surprised by its choice to join a market that has become quite competitive, with JPK and Jeanneau taking the lion's share. The announcement of a future freeze on new Mini boats, as well as an equally crowded Class 40, has surely prompted the Combrit-based shipyard to diversify. We can't wait to find out more about the future Pogo RC.
