Speed record during training sessions
During the training sessions, the English team led by Dean Fletcher first crossed the 50 knot (92.6 km/h) threshold. Other teams have since crossed this symbolic 50-knot barrier, with a new record of 51.2 knots for the Australians.
A sensational show
The bad weather was a blow to the six crews competing in Cowes, England. Thus, after a cancelled first day of racing, the F50s competed in 3 races in tough conditions on Sunday, August 11. Windy water, strong currents and waves punctuated the races.
In the first race, the American team capsized on the first reaching edge shortly after the start. The British suffered technical damage after a violent crash. The French team finished 4th in this round, after a good start.
Only 5 boats appeared in the 2nd race, the English being forced to abandon after their damage. After a start in the leading group, the team led by Billy Besson and Marie Riou suffered a penalty for biting the course limits. They then moved from second to last place.
Finally, the last set allowed the French to flirt with the Japanese and the leading Australian team and take second place. The French team finished 4th in the overall ranking. An encouraging result, as Billy Besson explains:
"It was a good journée?! We have already managed the men and equipment and we have also managed to do some great things. The work we have put in place is positive, we have made progress all week and we have made good manoeuvres. We pushed the boat a little harder and I hope it was noticed especially in the last race. We still have to learn about our penalty, but at least we know we can make places in front. We pushed the boat and the team a little further today. We are delighted to finish with this small set of 2 which is encouraging for the future."
The last stage of the Sail GP circuit will now be held in France. Rendez-vous in Marseille on 20, 21 and 22 September 2019 for the grand finale.
