Damien SEGUIN

The skipper then moved up to the Class 40 (a 12-metre long monohull), competing in a series of races, with transatlantic passages as well as two Route du Rhums in 2010 and 2014… Determined and constantly striving to excel, the man who has spent years convincing others that his handicap is not an obstacle in his bid to immerse himself in the domain of able-bodied sport, is now taking on a huge challenge: the Vendée Globe.

Damien Seguin has had a remarkable Vendée Globe. First to complete his round-the-world voyage in an IMOCA with straight daggerboards and sixth in the general ranking, at the finish, the double Olympic champion declared "I always wanted my race to be a symbol, being a top-level athlete means, for me, being the showcase of his sport." Mission accomplished for Damien, who proved that it was no longer a question of whether a disabled athlete could race the Vendée Globe. 

Mobilized for disability 

The APICIL Group and its members, APICIL provident and Intégrance mutual insurance, specialists in supporting less able-bodied persons and dependents, have chosen to support the skipper Damien SEGUIN in his next challenge: to take the start of the Vendée Globe. The APICIL Group’s commitment to the support and inclusion of less able-bodied persons is one of the main focuses of its social welfare policies. This commitment translates as support for numerous associations, which are notably involved with less able-bodied athletes. One objective: to support the development of sports practice at every level and for everyone. Through sharing these common values a bond was naturally formed between these protagonists and Damien Seguin as the skipper is also extremely committed to equality between less able-bodied and able-bodied persons.