A sports challenge in wingfoiling to support medical research

Student Life
© Clément Quibel

Max Duez is a master’s student at ENSTA and the University of Brest (UBO). This summer, he decided to take on a sporting challenge with his friend Pol: to cover 500 kilometers by wingfoil along the coast of Brittany. It’s a human and charitable adventure, as every kilometer covered represents a donation to the organization Solidaires en peloton, in support of multiple sclerosis research.

Extensive Preparation

For several months now, the two friends have been preparing: raising funds to support each kilometer, sourcing equipment, training physically, and coordinating with the Cross (Regional Operational Centers for Surveillance and Rescue) to approve the route and safety equipment…

“Pol and I have already taken on challenges like this, particularly on the islands of Brittany. With the Breizh Wing Tour, we wanted to take it a step further and link it to a charitable project.”

Max Duez Master’s student in naval hydrodynamics
© Clément Quibel

From Mont Saint-Michel to Vannes

© Clément Quibel

“We plan to sail for about twenty days in September 2026, but the schedule depends on weather conditions. We’re planning stages averaging 50 kilometers per day, which could go up to 150 kilometers.”

To ensure their safety, Pol and Max have prepared thoroughly. Both have been wingfoiling for four years. Pol has made it his career; he’s a wingfoil instructor in the Canary Islands. They’ve had extensive discussions with the Lost in the Swell surf collective, which convinced them to take their time with this project and not prioritize speed.

This time will allow them to shoot footage to document their adventure and showcase the scenic views of Brittany.
Each leg of the journey will be supported on land by a van handling logistical needs. On the water, 2 miles offshore to avoid maritime traffic, each of them will carry a full set of safety equipment (AIS beacon, shock-absorbing earplugs, etc.).

A Challenge to Support Multiple Sclerosis Research

To give meaning to this athletic challenge, Pol and Max wanted to partner with the nonprofit Solidaires en Peloton. A fundraising campaign has been launched. The goal is both to collect donations for the organization and to raise its profile.

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