Spectacular Capsize Rocks Team USA at Bermuda Sail Grand Prix
In a heart-stopping moment, the third fleet race of the practice day at the Apex Group Bermuda Sail Grand Prix witnessed a remarkable spectacle as members of Team USA went flying into the water when their boat capsized.
A Mishap During Maneuvers
As the boat approached the first mark, a tragic error occurred. The top wing of the U.S. boat became inverted, causing a sudden and dramatic flip.
Crew Sent Soaring, but No Serious Injuries
The violent maneuver ejected five of the six crew members from the boat. Miraculously, no serious injuries were sustained despite the terrifying ordeal.
“User Error” Blamed
An investigation revealed that “user error” was behind the capsize. Victor Diaz de Leon, the wing trimmer, accidentally pressed a button that inverted the wing.
“I chose the wrong function on my control panel,” explained Diaz de Leon. “It was very scary, but thankfully everyone is safe.”
Team USA Withdraws from Bermuda Competition
While the crew escaped unscathed, the U.S. team was devastated. The F50 boat sustained severe damage, rendering it unserviceable for the official races.
Team captain Taylor Canfield expressed his disappointment: “We’re all safe, but we’re disappointed not to be able to race in Bermuda.”
A Lesson Learned for the Future
The capsize served as a sobering reminder of the risks inherent in high-speed sailing. Team USA will undoubtedly use this experience as a valuable lesson for future competitions.
Current Standings in Season 4
Canfield’s team currently ranks seventh out of 10 squads in season 4 of SailGP. Despite this setback, they have shown resilience and will undoubtedly aim to climb the rankings in the future.
As Team USA regroup and prepare for the next leg of the season, the thrilling yet perilous nature of SailGP will continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
