Photo by José Jordán
After a year sitting on her cradle, Desafío Español has sailed today on board ESP 97, the ACC yacht that achieved the Semi-Finals of the 32nd America’s Cup, the best result ever for a Spanish team in the history of the Cup.
In a sunny day in Valencia and with 8 knots of wind, the team has sailed in perfect conditions to do the first test. For over five hours, the 17 crew members have tested all the mechanical systems, hydraulics and electronics, and has practiced basic manouvers.
John Cutler, tactician on board Desafío Español, said: “We went out there an practiced basic manouvers to remind us all how to sail this boat. It has been a year since ESP 97 sailed for the last time and we had to check her. Everything worked well. The shore team and the crew did a good job putting the boat together. Is really good to be back sailing on an ACC yacht!”.
Laureano Wizner, traveller of Desafío Español, added: “It has been a very special day. We had to remember how to approach the mark, the communications on board, the reactions of the boat, and how to anticipate every manouver”.
Desafío Español will race again on ESP 97 during the 2nd Trofeo Desafío Español in Valencia on November 7th, 8th and 9th.- Desafío Español
