Banque Populaire, new multihull programme

News from Banque Populaire on it's sailing programme the document's in French but google translate does a reasonable job.  They have acquired the former Groupama 3 trimaran which is now setup for singlehanding and are putting Armel le Cleach at the helm for a swing at the Route du Rhum.

http://www.voile.banquepopulaire.fr/La-Banque-de-la-Voile/Banque-Populaire-reaffirme-son-engagement-dans-la-voile-jusqu-en-2016-8974.html#suite

A new challenge: the Route du Rhum on the Maxi Trimaran Banque Populaire Solo VII

Banque Populaire re-engages the sides of Armel Le Cléac'h for 2 years. The current skipper Mono 60 'Banque Populaire, after 67 days of racing breathlessly to the global forefront, is now the second ranking of the most legendary racing solo around the world. It is expected Sables d'Olonne around January 28. After a period of rest, it will report a new challenge and take the helm of the Maxi Trimaran Banque Populaire Solo VII (ex-Groupama 3). Acquired a few days ago by Banque Populaire, the ship crew and outstanding track record solo, will be the new mount Armel Le Cléac'h for the next 2 years. Maxi Trimaran Banque Populaire Solo VII, to date, the largest ocean in the world trimaran operable by one man and can participate in the Route du Rhum. He enters the fleet with Banque Populaire aim to bring the colors of the Sailing Bank in the most famous liners but also an attempt to beat some records alone. meantime, Armel Le Cléac ' h and Banque Populaire will, June 2, at the beginning of the Solitaire du Figaro. Double race winner, Armel back on the Figaro circuit accomplished competitor in an attempt to win a third title. Both boats will be prepared within the Team Banque Populaire. Installed at the heart of the Lorient Base Kéroman, a few steps from the Cité de la Voile Eric Tabarly, the Team Banque Populaire, led by Ronan Lucas, is a team sport and technology recognized for its excellence.

Hydroptere team receive additional sponsorship from Lanson Champagne

After the loss of their major sponsor DCNS the Hydroptere team have been seeking to recruit new partners for sponsorship to allow them to resume their Ocean record programme.  Lanson Champagne have stepped up their involvement.

Article from bymnews.com

http://www.bymnews.com/news/newsDetails.php?id=111902

LANSON champagne strengthen its partnership with Hydroptère

 

Saturday, 17 November 2012

 

As a partner of Alain Thébault since 2008, the Champagne house LANSON has decided to strengthen its partnership with the Hydroptère project by becoming "official partner of Hydroptère."

 

The United States represent a new challenge for LANSON and they wished to increase their support to the project in order to accompany the team in their Pacific record attempt next summer, departing from Los Angeles. This announcement was warmly greeted by the entire crew.

 

"We are entering a period of transition. With the strengthened support of LANSON, a new chapter begins. This will help maintain an operational team in San Francisco in the short term, which is very important. I thank LANSON for their faithfulness and confidence. The French luxury joins the adventure with style," said Alain Thébault, designer and skipper of Hydroptère.

 

more here