Fast-moving media
In recent years, Cup boats have undergone extreme evolution, enabling them to reach unprecedented top speeds. After the appearance of the AC 72 flying catamarans in 2013, then the AC 50s in 2017, sailors' equipment had to be adapted to new needs.
Approaching 52 knots on the water exposes crews to new risks. A fall into the water at this speed can be compared to an impact on a hard surface. That's why proper preparation and the right equipment are essential.
Shock protection and communication
To equip themselves for such situations, equipment manufacturers have had to review their specifications and draw inspiration from technologies developed in other fields. As impacts are fairly frequent in the cockpit of an AC 72, the lumbar and ribs are now protected by impact vests inspired by models used in downhill mountain biking.
Of course, this impact vest also has reserve buoyancy in the event of a fall overboard. Last but not least, several active safety features are also included: a knife, or strap cutter, and an oxygen cylinder with regulator, in case the crew finds itself trapped in an overturned hull.
The only thing protruding from the deck is a helmet, often fitted with a retractable visor with hydrophobic treatment to prevent water from clinging to the surface.
Another crucial point is crew communication, since an AC 72 makes a lot of noise. An intercom system, consisting of microphones and headsets, is essential to ensure that the crew can communicate properly.
Protecting yourself from the heat
Barcelona gets very hot in summer. That's why most team members wear shorts and breathable T-shirts underneath their safety gear. The "cyclors", who pedal for the duration of a round, put in a very intense effort and need to keep cool. They are also fitted with heart monitors, so that the technical staff can check that everything is going well during a round. Impact vests are also equipped with a camel bag-type water pocket.
With the Cup scheduled for October, water and air temperatures are set to drop. Crews will then be equipped with long john or neoprene protectors for the final weeks of the event.
Accidents are rare, but they can be dramatic. In 2013, British sailor Andrew Simpson, double Olympic sailing medalist, died when the Swedish team's catamaran Artemis capsized in San Francisco Bay
