Clipper Race film makes a splash at Waterproof Festival in Geneva

Ever wondered who captures the footage of our Clipper Race crews as they race across the oceans of the world? A new short film called La Course de Leur Vie has been created to tell the story of Maéva Bardy, one of our on board video-journalists on the 2017-18 edition of the epic global challenge. Premiering last week at the Waterproof Festival in Geneva, Switzerland, the film, the title of which translates to Race of Your Life, has just been awarded the Prix du Public, awarded by the audience at the festival.

Maéva, who is from the city of Lyon, France, was part of the team from 1080 Media TV producing the documentary series which follows the Clipper Race during its 40,000 nautical mile adventure. In the film she shares her insight and behind the scenes footage of her experiences during the three legs which took her to Australia (Fremantle), China (Sanya and Qingdao), the United States (Seattle and New York), Northern Ireland (Derry Londonderry) and Race Finish in Liverpool, UK.

One of the breathtaking stories within La Course de Leur Vie takes place during the mighty North Pacific Ocean race. The crew faced hurricane force winds, waves up to 14 metres high (the equivalent of a four storey building) and freezing cold conditions. With one hand for the boat and one for her camera, Maéva captured the sheer magnitude of this immense ocean crossing, the extremity of the weather and also the exhilaration and exhaustion of the crew as they battled with Mother Nature.

Of making a Clipper Race yacht her office, Maéva says: “It was a big challenge that I rose to because it was the hardest working conditions I had ever had. There are things I miss. The adrenaline of the starts and the elation of the finishes. My desk: the ocean."

Speaking of the film’s award win, Maéva continues: "I am very happy and moved to have seen my images on the big screen. Even comfortably seated in this movie theater, these huge waves had the power to bring me back to the deck of a Clipper 70 and to remind me of all those intense moments on this incredible adventure. I’m delighted the audience was transported on board through the film and to share with them some of the exaltation we experienced during this unforgettable journey."

The Clipper Race is now gearing up for its twelfth edition which is due to start in summer 2019. Want to learn more about our crew from the 2019-20 edition? Check out our news page to find out their #ReasonToRace.