Swiss Vendée Globe Skipper Oliver Heer reveals new title sponsor

Tut gut. Sailing - Swiss Vendée Globe Skipper Oliver Heer reveals new title sponsor © Tut gut. Sailing

"Tut gut. Sailing" is confirmed as the new name for the Swiss sailing team Oliver Heer Ocean Racing.

Appointing a title sponsor just months before the start of the Vendée Globe in November 2024 is a major achievement for this small Swiss sailing team.

This financial injection marks a pivotal point for Heer, enabling the team to undertake critical upgrades to his 2007 Farr designed IMOCA 60. The focus is now on reliability, safety and ergonomics and includes refitting the electronics, and improving redundancy and spares. These vital works will ensure the competitiveness of this vessel in the non-stop, round the world race, expected to take around 3 months to complete.

Heer, 36, from Zurich, is set to be the first sailor to represent the German speaking region of Switzerland in the Vendée Globe. His journey to be part of the epic race has not been smooth as he has faced multiple challenges over the past three years. With sheer determination, passion and a calm demeanour, Heer has overcome these obstacles and gained invaluable experience which should stand him and the team in good stead for the race.

"Tut gut." is a simple phrase but contains layers of meaning. This catchphrase of Burgerstein Vitamine translates into English as 'Good For You' in reference to the natural ingredients which characterise Burgerstein's numerous wellbeing products. A secondary interpretation is 'Good for you!' as a celebration of anyone who pushes themselves to pursue their goals and follow their dreams. An incredibly appropriate message for Heer who has continued determinedly on his path to selection for the Vendée Globe, despite the numerous obstacles he has faced.

Tanja Zimmerman CEO of Burgerstein has supported Heer's campaign since 2022 and is now excited to elevate her support to title sponsor.

Tanja Zimmermann-Burgerstein, CEO of Burgerstein Vitamine, stated: "As the title sponsor of Oliver Heer, we support a unique project that represents the pinnacle of human endurance and the relentless pursuit of dreams. Alone, yet supported by a team, much like us in entrepreneurship, it shows me that with courage and determination, we can achieve the impossible together.

"Oliver and his team are meticulously preparing for the solo circumnavigation under tough conditions. At Burgerstein Vitamine, we support Oliver and many other athletes in their sporting careers so that they can give their best. Health and wellbeing must always be the focus."

Skipper Oliver Heer expressed his enthusiasm: "As a team, we are delighted to become "Tut gut. Sailing". Obviously, the financial injection is vital in helping us to refit and equip the boat. Our partnership is also based on shared values and beliefs. Maintaining my health and wellbeing is vital to my chances of completing the Vendée Globe race. Burgerstein is one of the most trusted brands in Switzerland, I am extremely proud to be associated with them and to sail with the 'Tut gut.' slogan on my sails."

With this additional support from Burgerstein Vitamine, Oliver Heer and Tut gut. Sailing team now have the resources to take on the Vendée Globe and compete in sailing's most challenging offshore race.