New TP52 Mean Machine christened in Valencia
by Helena de la Gándara 4 May 2008 16:51 BST
The brand new Mean Machine TP52 is christened in Valencia © Sander Van der Borch / Mean Machine
The brand new Mean Machine TP52 has been launched at an intimate ceremony in Valencia. It’s been five months of intensive building, five weeks of travelling, and a few very long days of getting to know the boat… but finally Peter de Ridder’s new Mean Machine has been launched.
The Emirates Team New Zealand base, where the boat has been held whilst she undergoes the final montage process, has been a real hub of activity. Boat Captain Chris Reid and TP52 tactician Ray Davies have been overseeing the process, along with the support of the rest of the Mean Machine team who are all in Valencia.
The ‘baptism’ for the new Mean Machine TP52 was the responsibility of team founder and skipper Peter de Ridder who smashed the famous bottle of champagne for luck across the boat’s bow.
The ceremony brought the entire Mean Machine team together, as well as the design team, official team suppliers and many friends, family and fans of the Mean Machine team, eager to share this very special moment with the team.
For this international team with five different nationalities, this is the first time they have chosen to launch a new member of the family in Spain. By choosing Valencia de Ridder and team are thanking Spain for all of the support over the last few years and for always giving the team such a warm welcome. Spain is also the location for the start of the Audi MedCup Circuit next week.
Dutchman Peter de Ridder’s new boat, designed by Rolf Vrolijk, is facing some tough training and preparation sessions ahead of the boat’s first challenge… the Alicante Trophy, the first event to be scored in the prestigious Audi MedCup Circuit.