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2007/08/30 - 17h33
| Very early on this Thursday morning, after over a month of work, Groupama 3 has returned to its natural element. Orchestrated
by the maxi-trimaran's shore crew, the launch was carried out without mishap.
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This ultimate work prior to the Jules Verne Trophy will have enabled Franck Cammas and his men to optimise the giant in view
of its first ever circumnavigation, the stand-by period for which will begin on 3rd December 2007.
Loïc Le Mignon,
preparateur/sailor on Groupama 3, gives us the low-down on the work carried out this summer:
"This Summer
yard was performed in two stages. The first goal was to optimize certain elements as a result of the experience acquired
over the previous four records. Comfort was a priority in our work. We have reinforced the bunks and also modified
the watch positions, which were too exposed.
The second stage to this work also enabled us to proceed with
a revision of everything which is situated below the waterline level as well as the whole rig. We uncovered
some wear on certain parts but no nasty surprises, apart from the area around the central bearing which had worn considerably
and needed repairing."
From as early as next week, Groupama 3 will take to the open sea again. The maxi will
be leaving its home port in Lorient on Thursday 6th September, bound for La Rochelle and then onto Bayonne, where some public
relations operations await the team.
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