Franck Cammas and his nine-strong crew capsized 80 miles off New Zealand, a year ago, following the breakage of Groupama 3s port float. They were 24 hours ahead of the reference time set by the current Jules Verne Trophy record holder when the incident occurred, and airlifted to safety by helicopter before heading back to the zone to rescue Groupama 3.

Remaining true to its commitment for over 10 years alongside Franck Cammas and his team, Groupama Management renewed its trust in the project by taking the decision to set off again on the assault of the Jules Verne Trophy as soon as possible. Less than 2 months after the painful episode, Groupama 3 was back in the yard in which it was created in Vannes, Brittany.

Ten months in the yard and 50,000 hours of work later, Groupama 3 is returning to its natural element for a 2009 campaign of record attempts, which will take her into the Mediterranean, the Atlantic Ocean and finally around the World in November for the Jules Verne Trophy.

Some time on the ocean is now called for in order to test out the various elements which have been optimised. In the meantime, Groupama 3 will return to her base in Lorient in Southern Brittany, where her mast will be stepped and the boat will be fully kitted out for an initial sail scheduled for 23rd February, following static tests.

The three record attempts scheduled for 2009:
1. Marseilles – Carthage in May. Record held by Orange 2 in 17 hours and 56 minutes at an average of 25.5 knots
2. New York – Lizard Point in July and August. Record held by Groupama 3
3. Jules Verne Trophy in November. Record held by Orange 2 in 50 days 16 hours and 20 minutes at an average of 17.89 knots.

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