The culprit is none other than the "Southerly Buster", a violent wind coming from the south whose slaps can reach 60 km/h. A drop in temperature is accompanied by an impressive roll cloud. The organizers made the wise decision to postpone the race by one day. Competitors know that sailing in these conditions can quickly turn into a disaster, with collisions and other drifts being frequent.
The Extreme Sailing Series by bringing the regattas closer to the spectators, on the seashore or even in the heart of the cities, the interest of the spectators has changed by projecting them into the heart of the action with ultra spectacular courses. The races are held on Extreme 40s, 12.19 m catamarans sailed by a crew of five sailors. These multihulls, designed by French architect Yves Loday, gold medalist at the Barcelona Olympic Games in 1992 in the Tornado class, can travel at speeds of over 35 knots.
The level of competitors is very high and one finds on the starting line talented skippers, America's Cup winners, Olympic medallistsâeuros¦ It is not uncommon to see the title being fought over until the last race.
A very nice show to admire in the bay of Sydney or live on YouTube...
Overall 2014 season standings before the Sydney races:
1. Alinghi (SUI) 65 pt
2. The Wave Muscat (OMA) 56
3. Emirates Team New Zealand (NZL) 49
4. Realteam (SUI) 45
5. J.P. Morgan BAR (GBR) 37
6. Red Bull Sailing Team (AUT) 30
7. SAP Extreme Sailing Team (DAN) 28
8. Oman Air (OMA) 24
9. Gazprom Team Russia (RUS) 24
10. Groupama (FRA) 23
11. GAC Pindar (AUS) 11
