Desafío christens TP52 boat

As we mentioned yesterday, Desafío christened and officially launched their brand new TP52 boat earlier this morning. In a ceremony mainly aimed at the local media and authorities - given the Valencia Region's sponsorship of the team - the Spanish America's Cup team had the usual champagne bottle splashed on the bow and then took the yacht for an exhibition spin inside Port America's Cup.

With exactly one week left till the start of the Audi MedCup in Alicante, all teams are carrying out their last training sessions, at least the ones that have their boats ready. According to very reliable information, BMW Oracle will not have their boat ready for the opening event and as a result, their maiden race will be in Marseille.

Our apologies for not keeping up with out usual standard of reports but I've been very busy with the Quebramar GP42 Cup in Italy.

Desafío's TP52 yacht sails inside Port America's Cup. Valencia, 6 May 2008. Photo copyright Desafío

Desafío's TP52 crew. Valencia, 6 May 2008. Photo copyright Desafío

Desafío's TP52 yacht sails inside Port America's Cup. Valencia, 6 May 2008. Photo copyright Desafío