America’s Cup Bermuda is enlisting the help of local boat owners. Locals who own power boats that meet required specifications and who are willing for their boat to be used in the Course Marshal fleet are asked to make contact with America’s Cup Bermuda. This comes as the preparations ramp up for a safe race course during the 35th America’s Cup.
The On Water Operations Committee is responsible for providing a safe racing area for the duration of the five-week race schedule. Having a fleet of local power boats will help Bermuda organisers to deliver that mandate.
The committee requires 32 boats in good, working order from May 15, 2017 to June 28, 2017, which will be used as part of the Course Marshal fleet. The fleet with be tasked with creating order among spectator boats on the Great Sound during the races.
Tom Miller, Chairman, On Water Operations Committee, says: “Creating a safe, uncompromised race course is of utmost importance in order to have successful racing on the Great Sound next year. We are asking local power boat owners to consider making their vessels available to help us achieve this goal. A safe race course is a critical element to showcasing Bermuda as a wonderful place to host sailing regattas.”
The specifications for eligible boats are as follows:
• 32 boats in good working order
• 18’ to 20’ in length
• Fuel efficient, 70 hp or less four-stroke engines in good condition
• 60 L fuel tank
• Hydraulic steering
• Safety gear (anchor, chain, rope, dock lines, self-bailing cockpit, etc.)
• Seating for two people
• Shade covering
• Hard-wired VHF radio
• Capabilities for towing marks
• Cooler for water
• Running lights
Individuals who would like to consider this will be given further information when they respond. It is anticipated that not all boats will be required all of the days scheduled but we would like to hear from people who are willing to consider making their boats available for a majority of the AC scheduled days. Boat owners can register their interest by emailing Adam Barboza, ACBDA Project Manager on ab@acbda.bm, who will provide specific details around the opportunity.
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