New TP52 Caixa Galicia presented in Valencia

Yet another brand new TP52 boat was presented this afternoon in Valencia. This time it was the turn of Caixa Galicia with a Botín Carkeek design built in the Ximo Lopez boatyard, 60 kilometers north of Valencia. She can be considered the "twin" of the Mutua Madrileña boat given the fact they shared the same mold. This time, boat owner Vicente Tirado opted for a yacht performing in a wider range of winds and will aim to advance from fourth overall place in 2006.

As far as the crew is concerned, apart from tactician John Kostecki, there are hardly any big America's Cup names. After the presentation we went out to take pictures of a brief test sail. I was fuming when I could see in the distance Alinghi and Emirates Team NZ training against each other!!!

The new Caixa Galicia officially presented. Valencia, 30 May 2007. Photo copyright Pierre Orphanidis / Valencia Sailing

The new Caixa Galicia officially presented. Valencia, 30 May 2007. Photo copyright Pierre Orphanidis / Valencia Sailing

The new Caixa Galicia officially presented. Valencia, 30 May 2007. Photo copyright Pierre Orphanidis / Valencia Sailing

The new Caixa Galicia officially presented. Valencia, 30 May 2007. Photo copyright Pierre Orphanidis / Valencia Sailing

The new Caixa Galicia officially presented. Valencia, 30 May 2007. Photo copyright Pierre Orphanidis / Valencia Sailing

The new Caixa Galicia officially presented. Valencia, 30 May 2007. Photo copyright Pierre Orphanidis / Valencia Sailing

The new Caixa Galicia officially presented. Valencia, 30 May 2007. Photo copyright Pierre Orphanidis / Valencia Sailing

The new Caixa Galicia officially presented. Valencia, 30 May 2007. Photo copyright Pierre Orphanidis / Valencia Sailing

The new Caixa Galicia officially presented. Valencia, 30 May 2007. Photo copyright Pierre Orphanidis / Valencia Sailing