Polish skipper Zbigniew Gutkowski has joined an international line-up and become the fourth entry in the 2010-11 Velux 5 Oceans new Eco 60 Class. The skipper, known as ‘Gutek’, joined Sir Robin Knox-Johnston at the Paris Boat Show to launch his campaign – Polish Ocean Racing – for the next edition of the solo challenge.

Gutek (36), is one of the leading sailors in Poland, with a wealth of competitive offshore racing experience. He commented: “The Velux 5 Oceans has long been an ambition for me – it is a classic event, with a rich heritage and fantastic format. The Eco 60 Class has made the race accessible and the event offers all the support to deliver significant exposure in Poland and around the world. My ultimate dream is the Vendée Globe, and there is no other race which offers a single-handed experience of the Southern Ocean. It is the best preparation possible, whilst also delivering all the unique challenges of the challenging five ocean sprints.”

To find out more about Zbigniew Gutkowski, and to see all entries for the 2010-11 event, visit www.velux5oceans.com