I enjoy sailing and have been watching the America's cup trials. I'm uncertain about the high tech Cats that are now
the class of boat used, anyway, they are pretty much a Hydro-foil but like all cats they are subject
to pitchpole :o
http://www.bbc.com/sport/sailing/40194996
D
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_yJ9mOxDOOw
Pretty epic crash. Boat was repaired overnight, but they get a day off today because of high winds.
The NZ boat doesn't have the usual winches to control things, the "grinders" are actually pedalling to provide power for the controls, as a human can produce more HP with his legs compared to arms. Means the controls can respond faster. The NZ boat was the first to complete a whole race, with mutliple tacks, without dropping off the foils at any time. Top speed is over 50 knots. :o
An Australian Helmsman Jimmy Spithill for Oracle Team USA
V.
A New Zealand Helmsman Peter Burling for Emirates Team N.Z.
This is going to be exciting, Formula 1 of sailboat racing,
D
This clip popped up today. How the Emirates TNZ boat works.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bAXA0mIXGmU
As well the pedal power to the controls, they have 3 crewmen on the controls. The helmsman simply steers, while the another guy trims the sails. The foils are controlled by the rear pedaller, who seems to have the hardest job out of all of them. :D He has to pedal AND "fly" the boat.
Match point tomorrow, Team NZ has been outstanding.
Start of race two today showed just how talented and competitive this team is.
D
NZ wins the cup,
the finals were not nearly as competitive as was hoped for.
D