Archambault continues IRC domination

by Mark Rothfield on 20 Apr 2009
International results over the Easter period have confirmed again that Archambaults are dominating the IRC circuit, especially among production cruiser-racers.

The brand new A31 won the first two regattas it entered, the A35 continued its divisional domination at three events, while the A40rc claimed an outstanding quinella at Marseille.

French designers Joubert/Nivelt have struck a winning formula that’s effective regardless of size, with all three models naturally sharing a common DNA. They’re not only beautifully built and a delight to sail but enjoy an exceptionally favourable IRC rating.

In Australia, the A40rc Alegria owned by Rod Jones is leading the Audi IRC Australian championship after resounding victories at Geelong and Sydney, and it will start as favourite at the Yachting NSW IRC championship at Port Stephens from April 24.

[Sorry, this content could not be displayed] At a time when the world’s manufacturing monoliths are developing crisis plans – Archambault is developing new models.

The company has a 54-year heritage yet in world terms remains a boutique boatbuilder – its current output is around 200 yachts per year.

A bold new 50-footer is due for release early next year and the A31 hit full production last month.

All the racing and rating attributes of the A35 and A40rc yachts have been condensed into the 31-footer. While optimised for IRC, it has the volume, headroom, cockpit space and stability necessary for comfortable cruising.

Down below there are six berths, including an enclosed aft cabin and double vee berth, plus a fully equipped galley, head compartment and navigation station. All joinery work is moabi mahogany, which is complemented by high quality microfibre upholstery.

The A31 carries 50sq m of sail upwind – with a non-overlapping headsail – and 102sq m off the breeze.

National importer Newcastle Yachting has a well-established dealer network – Sydney Yachting Centre, Prestige Boat Sales in Perth serving WA and Ensign Yacht Brokers at the Gold Coast serving Queensland.

For details phone (02) 4962 5288.

GRAND PRIX IRC DE LA MANCHE
A35 1ST IRC OVERALL
A35 2ND IRC OVERALL
A35 3RD IRC OVERALL

SPI OUEST FRANCE BOUYGUES TELECOM
A35 1ST IRC2
A31 1ST IRC3
A31 2ND IRC3

SNIM in Marseille
A31 1ST IRC D
A35 3RD IRC C
A40RC 1ST IRC B
A40RC 2ND IRC B
Surprise 1ER IRC DB
Surprise 2EME IRC DB
Surprise 3EME IRC DB

SAN FERNANDO RACE /Hong Kong
Victory in IRC racing on A35.