Ad Lib 116

 

Ant-like, Gitana 18's acolytes swarm about the open expanses of her trampolines. Which are strung taut from the muscular amas (crossbeams). This latest and most radical, of the giant Ultim trimarans, is under pressure, to be race ready for November's Route du Rhum.

Launched on Valentine's Day, she was flight testing, off Groix when Stargazer saw her in June. Tuning the unique, hydraulically adjustable rig and foil controls. Not to mention her aerospace inspired rudders and super-sized lift surfaces.

As expected, teething troubles emerged during those sea trials. Robbing her of valuable testing time. Whilst her foils are replaced with stronger items. Her control rams upweighted.

Meanwhile, her nemesis, Sodebo 3, has undergone a spring refit. After the rigours of setting a new Trophee Jules Verne (non-stop round the world) record during the winter.

Last week, she was relaunched. With an upgraded foil package. Said to be "S" shaped. Although details, given the current Ultim arms race, are understandably scant.

Yesterday, Thomas Coville's preparateurs were commissioning the redesigned foil lift mechanisms.

This morning, Thomas slipped out to sea. Putting in some practice miles. His eye set on achieving both a Trophee Jules Verne and a Route du Rhum win,  in the same season. During, what could be, his retirement (from serious record setting) year.

 Whilst Gitana 18's skipper, Charles Caudrelier, is forced to forgo valuable familiarisation time. His cutting edge craft's performance potential, as yet, untapped. Her bearded Boat Captain (far right) pacing the deck. Waiting impatiently for their parts delivery.

Picture Credits

Sodebo on her record run. Aerial shot. Courtesy of Sodebo / Tropheee Jules Verne