Meanwhile in Valencia...

Less than 24 hours after receiving their second Extreme 40 catamaran (the former Holmatro), BMW Oracle's shore crew together with a number of Extreme 40 staff had already put her on the water. Unfortunately, the black and orange catamaran had her maiden sail in Valencia after we left, so there are no pictures.

In the meantime, Alinghi is now carrying an apparently intensive two-catamaran training program and to our understanding the Defender of the 33rd America's Cup is out on the water every day.

Last but not least, the Desafío Español base has been transformed into a boatyard. Inside the shed the team is building a brand new TP52 yacht desgined by Vrolijk, while outside they are modifying last year's GP42 champion, the Quebramar-Chrysler yacht. Both boats will carry the colors and name of the Spanish team.

The BMW Oracle base with the two catamarans in front of it. Valencia, 26 February 2008. Photo opcyright Pierre Orphanidis / Valencia Sailing

The Holmatro catamaran is about to sail for the first time in Valencia in her new identity as BMW Oracle's second Extreme 40. Valencia, 26 February 2008. Photo opcyright Pierre Orphanidis / Valencia Sailing

Alinghi is now carrying an apparently intensive two-catamaran training program. Valencia, 26 February 2008. Photo opcyright Pierre Orphanidis / Valencia Sailing

The Desafío Español crew is working on their GP42 yacht, last year's champion. Valencia, 26 February 2008. Photo opcyright Pierre Orphanidis / Valencia Sailing

The Desafío Español base has been turned into a boatyard. Valencia, 26 February 2008. Photo opcyright Pierre Orphanidis / Valencia Sailing