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Hakes Marine Ltd worked for
America's Cup Challenge 2003
Prior to the last series of races, Pradas' ITA 74 undertook extensive bow modifications; this was in fact a complete bow replacement rather than a simple alteration of the shape. The new bow which was over 10m. in length, representing just under half the length of the boat, was fabricated by Hakes Marine Ltd in their new Wellington based facility. Prada requested Hakes Marine to build the new part for them to the exact technical standards that are required for both weight and quality control, fitting and rule measurement. Under an extremely tight time frame Paul Hakes and his crew worked twenty four seven to manufacture both the mould and then the new part from it in less than two weeks. It was then delivered to Auckland where the cutting, fitting, and bonding process began on ITA 74. All on schedule, budget and within the required time frame.
The Prada America's Cup Challenge 2003 is grateful and happy to acknowledge the valuable help that Hakes Marine has contributed to the alteration of their boat and have been impressed by both their product and performance.
Also during Round Robins and Quarterfinals Le Defi Areva was racing with many under water modifications that Hakes Marine had been given the responsibility to manufacture. Most of the modifications were the creation of new appendages some of which are highly developmental and will remain confidential until Le Defis' next bid for 'The Cup'. All the parts that Hakes Marine completed for Le Defi had to be to built to fine tolerances, involving computer cut moulds and high technology materials that are now expected in the construction of these 'state of the art' racing machines. The processing of these materials and the construction of the parts were at times technically very challenging as Le Defi sought to break new ground with their developments.
Le Defi are pleased to acknowledge the technical and construction input Hakes Marine contributed to their campaign, performing by delivering the product within the tight time frames and budgets requested.
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