First ACWS races with wing extension

Wing extensions used in a race for the first time in Sunday’s Naples fleet race.

AC45 fleet with wing extension – Naples, 15 April 2012

The extensions add four meters of height and 8.7 square meters of “sail” area – up high where it can provide the most power. The teams have sailed in up to 20 knots of wind with the extensions, with no problems. Expect to see the extensions used in Venice and Newport, where light air is likely.

AC45 spec sheet

AC45 catamaran data sheet – with wing extension

The wing extension weighs 30 kg and attaches with eight bolts in about 30 minutes, once the wing is on its trolleys, in the shop.