Team Invictus News
13 September 2004: Terrible blow to Australian team as wing breaks
Our hearts go out to the Australian team who suffered a terrible blow yesterday after their boat 'Ronstan' suffered damage when their wing sail broke during trials. This is every team's worst nightmare and we are hoping that the damage is not irreparable.
After preparations in the light winds of the morning the crew set about sailing 'Ronstan' and getting familiar with RI waters. At this point they suffered a minor breakage and returned to shore for a quick repair. They went out again in mid afternoon along with the US boat 'Cogito'. The stronger winds at this time meant that they lifted a hull quickly.
Some of the Team Invictus members joined owner & designer Ian Jenkins and Damien Smith on their chase boat trailing 'Ronstan'. This is very much still in a testing phase and they could see the crew discussing rig control.
They tacked in front of Bristol waterfront and the Herrescnoff Museum and headed towards the race area. However a twist mechanism failure caused significant damage to the wing and they limped ashore. The Australian team are now trying to carry out repairs and we hope that after all the hard work that has gone into these boats that all three countries get to take part in the challenge. We are keeping our fingers crossed for the Australian team.
There was better news for the US team as 'Cogito' and 'Patient Lady VI' took to the water. There was a minor problem with Patient Lady VI when she suffered a broken control arm and had to return to shore escorted by 'Cogito'. This is a minor repair and she'll soon be back out on the water. 'Cogito' proceeded back to the sound and seeing her pick up speed in such a way epitomises the grace of these boats. In the capable hands of Steve Clark and Duncan Maclane they make it look as easy as a walk down the pier. They stayed out for a couple of hours, returned, derigged, washed down and packed away, again with effortless ease. 'Cogito' is the closest thing to a practical C Class catamaran yet built.
Our entry 'Invictus' is due to arrive later today. The team are all geared up and itching to join the other boats on the water. 'Invictus' should be launched tomorrow for low test and then the wing will be readied for a full boat test. The team in the meantime are making all the preparations they can and are enjoying the calm before the storm.
