[C320-list] companionway hatch

[Jack Russ]

Hi all,
I have a 1995 320.  On the underside of the sliding companionway hatch there is a fore/aft groove routed in the lexan about an inch from each side of the hatch.  They do not appear to have any function on my boat.  I plan on having a new hatch made, but see no reason to include the grooves.  Does anyone know the purpose of these grooves?  Is there something missing on my boat (other than the teflon tape)?
Thanks for any info - Jack