Levity : 4 Lovers of Sailing
31 May 2025
Levity : 4 lovers of sailing
- New Zealand boat
- Type : multihull
- Crew : Mike Mackey, Brett Elliott, Brad Marsh et James Glidden.
- Number of Groupama Race participations (including 2025): 1 for the boat, 1 for 2 crew members, 2 for 2 crew members
A newcomer on the starting line, Levity brings together an experienced and tight-knit crew. At the helm is skipper Mike Mackey : originally from New Zealand, Mike rekindled his passion for sailing after a forty-year (!) break, thanks in part to his sailing experiences alongside Alain Vilas… in New Caledonia!
“It’s Alain, but also my sailing mentor, Brett Elliott, who gave me the desire to bring Levity here to take part in this iconic race,” he explains. “Plus, they say the Groupama Race offers exceptional sailing conditions and an ideal climate…”
If Brett Elliott convinced his friend to join the Groupama Race, it’s because he himself has already tasted it! In fact, he took part in the 2014 edition aboard Crusader : “I have vivid memories of that race,” Brett says. “Coming back here, this time aboard Levity, is a wonderful opportunity to relive the adventure with a crew I truly appreciate.”
The third member of the crew, Brad Marsh, also started sailing at a very young age. Now a professional rigger, he spent 15 years working with international racing teams before returning to settle in New Zealand with his family. “Joining the race on Levity is for me a chance to keep improving, to feel the offshore racing adrenaline again… and to practice my French a bit more!” he confides.
Finally, James Glidden rounds out this united crew. It’s not his first time here either — he also raced the Groupama Race back in 2014 on Crusader with Brett! “I’m thrilled to come back for a new edition,” he tells us. “I’m looking forward to the long downwind leg — it’s always a magical moment.”
Together, Mike, Brett, Brad, and James will give their very best for the Groupama Race while making sure they enjoy the ride : “We’re here to sail well, enjoy the experience… and fully savor the unique atmosphere of this race,” Mike concludes.