Artemis’ Big Cat Tests Bay Waters
It’s a bird. . . It’s a plane. . . No, it’s Artemis Racing’s sleek new AC72 testing the waters of San Francisco Bay. Last week the bright-red speed machine completed two test sails in moderate wind conditions — at some points flying a hull with no apparent difficulties. No doubt the problem-free sessions were a relief to team members after suffering damage to the wing sail on the boat’s first outing, followed by structural problems with the platform last month.
Meanwhile, behind the scenes, Oracle Team USA staffers are working to replace their 72’s wing mast, which was destroyed by wind and waves after the big cat capsized last month, and was washed out the Golden Gate before she could be righted. Emirates Team New Zealand’s big cat has also been launched, and is currently testing in the Hauraki Gulf. She clocked 43.6 knots recently in 25 knots of wind!
Stay tuned for updates on further America’s Cup 34 developments, including coverage of the Red Bull America’s Cup Youth Series.
