Crossing the English Channel for Duchenne Awareness

Man riding on a lake using ENSIS Equipment

On September 7th, Duchenne World Awareness Day, wingfoilers Doré De Morsier and Yo Wiebel will embark on a challenging wingfoil adventure across the English Channel. Their mission is to raise awareness and funds for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a progressive muscle disease that leads to severe muscle wasting. The journey, from Cherbourg, France, to the Needles in England, will test their endurance and skills as they navigate strong tides, powerful currents, and heavy shipping traffic. We at ENSIS are proud to support Yo and Doré in this remarkable endeavor. 

A Daunting Challenge: The English Channel Crossing 

map of charity route of the English Channel crossing

The crossing will span 60-70 nautical miles (approximately 110-130 kilometers) from Cherbourg, France, to the Needles in England. Known as one of the most challenging and unpredictable bodies of water in the world, the English Channel features strong tides, swift currents, wild waves, and heavy shipping traffic. Doré and Yo will need to rely on their expert skills to navigate these waters and push through any obstacles they encounter. 

Yo’s Spirit of Adventure 

Balz and Yo taking flight together on wing foils

This isn’t Yo Wiebel’s first monumental challenge. Last year, he completed a 71-nautical-mile downwinder (over 130 kilometers) along the Brazilian coast with Balz Müller to raise funds. His dedication to raising awareness for important causes drives him to continually push his limits. This latest challenge highlights Yo’s commitment to making a difference through his sport. 

Equipped for Success 

Yo and Doré taking flight on ENSIS equipment

At ENSIS, we are proud to support Yo and Doré on this incredible journey. They’ll be using the ENSIS WALTZ, a downwind board known for its volume and excellent lightwind performance, alongside the latest ENSIS SCORE wing for optimal control and efficiency in these demanding conditions. 

Follow Their Journey and Support the Cause 

If you’d like to support the Duchenne Boys and Yo’s mission, visit foiling-school.com to donate. Follow @foilingschool on Instagram for real-time updates, photos, and live coverage of this exciting adventure. 

Track their journey live here.  

Interested in anything wing or foil? 

Interested in events ENSIS are hosting or attending or want to try out the gear? Be sure to follow our social media for future announcements, or check out the DEMO DAY page, for future events.The ENSIS team is highly skilled in wing foiling and is eager to assist you in starting your wing foiling journey. Our worldwide retailers offer a variety of ENSIS products. Contact us now to learn more about our products or locate an ENSIS retailer nearby.