Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Water ballast...

Statement by Tom Ehman, GGYC spokesperson

Valencia (February 2, 2010) – Competitors will be able to use water ballast in
the coming 33rd America’s Cup commencing in Valencia on Monday, provided
that the amount used to benefit performance is also in position when the boat is
measured.

This verdict of the International Jury was made tonight following a hearing in
Valencia.

“It puts the onus on the measurer to guarantee that the amount and location of
ballast aboard for measurement is solely to enhance performance, not
circumvent the waterline requirements of the Deed of Gift,” said GGYC
spokesman Tom Ehman.

The Deed of Gift sets an absolute limit of 90ft on the load waterline (LWL) for
single-masted vessels.

“This means Alinghi might squeeze under the 90ft limit for measurement, release
the ballast and then may race a boat longer than 90ft LWL,” Ehman said. “We
don’t fully agree with the decision, but GGYC accepts it, and are ready to race.”