AC45s on the Hauraki Gulf. Image copyright Gilles Martin-Raget/www.americascup.com
by Tim Jeffery
The sight was one to behold: Four AC45s flying around the Hauraki Gulf.
The four yachts took part in an informal video session last week and it left many salivating at what’s to come, a fleet of 10 (or perhaps 12, depending on the number of entries) AC45s jockeying for positions as part of the America’s Cup World Series.
“It’s going to be exciting to watch,” said Terry Hutchinson, skipper of Artemis Racing. “What will make it exciting is you’ll hear the adrenaline on the boat. It’s going to provide a lot of entertainment for everyone involved, spectators and sailors alike.”
AC45s on the Hauraki Gulf. Image copyright Gilles Martin-Raget/www.americascup.com
Hutchinson’s tactician, Iain Percy, concurred: “I really enjoy the boats. I enjoy the fact you have to work hard to get the manoeuvres done. You don’t have so much time to think, there’s a lot more doing. It’s going to be good fun.”
The four yachts featured Artemis Racing, two from ORACLE Racing and the AC45 prototype. Already a difference in headsails was noted, with Artemis Racing flying one with a longer luff than those on the two ORACLE Racing yachts.
AC45s on the Hauraki Gulf. Image copyright Gilles Martin-Raget/www.americascup.com
“The fact you have some other teams out there, next to you, with different sails, different ideas, it’s a steep learning curve,” said James Spithill, ORACLE Racing skipper. “We’re looking to line up at least once a week to do some practice racing and stuff like that. Everyone’s getting something out of it. It’s a lot of fun.”
The first ACWS is scheduled July 16-24 at a venue to be announced.
ORACLE Racing
America's Cup
