FRA 93 Sails

Congrats to the AREVA Challenge, who sailed their new boat FRA 93 here in VLC yesterday. 93 is the first new ACC yacht to sail since Emirates Team NZ launched NZL 92 in AKL in October. 94 through 99 are all expected to be sailing early in the new year. 100 is presumed to be Alinghi's 2nd new boat, and is not expected to be splashed until March. Photos: © Frank Socha/Areva Challenge.

AREVA Christen FRA 93

Congrats to our colleagues Dawn Riley and George Clyde and our other friends at the AREVA Challenge on the christening of their new ACC yacht last evening here in Valencia. Approximately 400 team members and guests gathered under a special tent erected for the occasion on the hard in front of their team base.

After a couple speeches and a great video, all team members were invited to the stage. Then the big red curtain behind them was opened to reveal the light-grey FRA 93 -- with a significantly turned-up nose and, by all accounts, an interesting transom. Details on the AREVA Challenge website.



We may not be in Kansas anymore, or Berkeley for that matter, but do pay attention to that boat behind the curtain. Photo courtesy of AREVA Challenge.



The big moment last evening. Photo courtesy of Pierre Orphanidis and his Valencia Sailing website, where there are more excellent photos to be found.

New Arrival: FRA 93

Congrats to AREVA Challenge on the arrival this afternoon of their new ACC yacht, FRA 93, at their base in the Port America's Cup.