Foiling on race gear over 25kts is pretty difficult given that most of the smallest foiling rigs are 8.0. The problem they had at that event is they can only register 3 rigs, so 8,9,10 for most. They would have been much better off like Antoine said on a 6.0 or something but wasn't an option.
Still would have been tricky as at those wind strengths the board windage becomes hard to control. Still most course racing sailing (boat) events typically have ~25kts upper wind limits.....so did well to get any racing at all in on that particular day.
Select to expand quoteWalt said..
The tricky condition was putting the pros in self-doubt about sailing.
What do you guys think?
Kind Regards
Walt
It shows that at least at the PRO level foil has already almost no upper wind limit. Give them a 5.5-6.0, maybe a smaller board/foil and they would be quite fine ... more than impressive what they can do with the "wrong" equipment for the conditions!!!!
Hi Duzzi
Yes, I do see that the foil may have a greater upper wind ability but does the boards and sailor have the ability to be competitive in the 30+knots wind range, the control aspect becomes out of control. I've watched the Americas cup foil and the GP foil boats and they are also on the limit with some spectacular crashed but the boats has greater area for the force generated, so they can pull through.
I feel that if they do not limit the wind strength for racing day then it may damage the racing competition. Its nice to test the competitors but to what gain if they crash because the foil peaks, I like the competitive racing when it is about the 22-25 all sailors are in the pocket and greater interest to the public because it is what we can achieve makes us feel good.
Nevertheless its great that the sport is covering all aspects and R&D will improve efficiency, there will be good things to come.
Kind Regards
Walt
Yeah I don't like being on the foil with race gear when it's over 18 knots wind strength, let alone 30+. That's crazy.
The first Aussie foil nationals in 2018 had gusts on day one to 30knots then day two 20 to 25 but much bigger seas. I believe this was a lot easier racing on a foil rather than formula equipment. Not many had prepared for this yet it was impressive to see how many enjoyed the challenge. Most were still on 7.8's the whole time.
Don't knock until you have tried it
:)))))
