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Orient Express Racing Team Prepares for Louis Vuitton Cup Round Robin Challenge
The Orient Express Racing Team is gearing up for the highly anticipated Louis Vuitton Cup, fully aware of their previous accomplishments and the challenges that lie ahead.
As the French challengers prepare to face their first test, they will compete against the Swiss team, Alinghi Red Bull Racing, in the opening match race of the double Round Robin stage. Additionally, they will take on the Italian challenger Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli later on the same day.
The initial round of this knock-out competition is expected to be intense, with each of the five challengers racing against one another twice. Ultimately, four teams will progress to the Semi Finals.
Thierry Douillard, coach of the Orient Express Racing Team, expressed confidence in the team’s potential: “We have to be aware of where we have come from and especially where we can get to. We can go far if everything aligns well.”
He also emphasized the importance of team spirit: “The team spirit is solid, so we need to focus on pure performance. Although it is eight sailors on that boat, the whole team is onboard with them.”
The team’s AC75 yacht showcased impressive potential during the recent Louis Vuitton Preliminary Regatta. Since their first sailing in June, the crew has been focused on optimizing their understanding of this advanced foiling technology.
“We have been learning the right settings and optimizing our maneuvers,” Douillard stated. “It’s complex because these systems require precise analysis to determine the best approach for each situation.”
A crucial area of focus has been the pre-start phase at the beginning of each match race. Douillard explained, “We are playing catch-up compared to our competitors, and so we have a lot to learn quickly. We have focused heavily on making the boat operational in every aspect.”
He noted the team’s performance during the Preliminary Regatta, “We anticipated being at a disadvantage during the starts, and it was even more significant than we expected. However, we have made progress and must now apply our learnings in practice.”
The Orient Express Racing Team finished tied with Alinghi Red Bull Racing at the bottom of the Preliminary Regatta standings, each securing one point.
Skipper Quentin Delapierre and his crew, including co-pilot Kevin Peponnet and trimmers Jason Saunders and Matthieu Vandamme, are fully aware of the stakes as they head into the competitive waters off Barcelona.
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Ava Thompson, a skilled sailor and marine journalist from Auckland, has developed a deep connection to the ocean that guides her work. With a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of Auckland, Ava is known for her engaging and detailed storytelling. Her writing brings to life the thrill of sailing and the unique maritime culture of New Zealand, earning her recognition in the sailing community. Outside of her journalism, Ava enjoys exploring the rugged coastlines of New Zealand and competing in local regattas, always in search of her next seafaring adventure.
