Fellow Frenchman Franck Cammas went on to win the "ultimate class" category of the event, finishing the course in nine days, three hours, 14 minutes and 47 seconds.

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Later, there were vintage cars and motorcycles, a state-of-the-art home recording studio, horses, and, the ultimate sign of class ascent, organic farming.

NEWYORKER: We Are Alive

This year's event attracted 85 competitors, with nine skippers, including Gavignet, participating in the elite "ultimate class" category for yachts 18 meters and over.

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Thus, not only is there a reasonable return on the investment (getting more than they paid for) but a great many in the middle class stand to gain the ultimate return the security of knowing their families will be able to pay for medical care should it become necessary.

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