40 Degrees (crewed by: Peter Harding, Miranda Merron, Alex Sizer and Anne Liardet) has just completed her first event of the season, racing in the Grand Prix Petit Navire, in the Bay of Douarnenez, France. The event ran over two weeks for various classes.

The first two days of racing consisted of speed runs over a set course of three miles for all three open classes. The competitors enjoyed sunny weather, but shifty winds. 40 Degrees was placed second and third over the two days.

The next three days were dedicated to coastal races, beginning with a 38 nautical mile race. After a light start three boats, including 40 Degrees, tacked to the favoured side and were never threatened by the rest of the fleet. 40 Degrees finished third.

On the second day (55 nautical miles course), the wind was very shifty. But the rain clouds soon cleared to sunshine and 15-20kn westerly wind. Despite problems with the gennaker, 40 Degrees finished sixth. The last day of racing was cancelled due to the weather.

40 Degrees finished 4th overall, and agreed it has been a good warm-up event.