Success on the racecourse for clients of BMComposites
by BMComposites 30 May 2024 17:01 BST
Wally Cento Galateia © BMComposites
Rule changes brought in by the IRC last October in response to changing trends, technical developments, and racing practices, opened up a new world of possibility for the Maxi fleet and those quick off the mark implemented changes over the winter period ready to storm the race circuit this season.
BMComposites have been the go-to name for many yachts seeking these performance enhancing updates, and we're delighted to see the results in action.
The season's success began with the Wally Cento Galateia taking the Maxi Class trophy at Palma Vela, and the BMC team were out on the water to witness it.
"This was Galateia's first competitive outing since undergoing an extensive programme of performance enhancing adaptations completed by the BMComposites team. We transformed the concept ballast layout into a workable system - comprising four tanks (two per side), with a fully automated pick up, transfer and discharge system." - Luke Hendy, BMComposites
Working alongside Reichel/Pugh Yacht Design, Diverse and Pure Engineering, BMComposites completed the design and layout for the system, and all composite components were constructed in our purpose-built facility for ultra-lightweight CFRP parts. At the crucial moment, the system can transfer large volumes of water to the opposite tank with impressive speed.
BMC also built and installed Galateia's internal spinnaker take-down system including the foredeck hatch installation.
BMC worked closely with the Captain, designers, engineers and sub-contractors to manage the entire process from initial briefing and design to fabrication, installation and final commissioning.
"Several yachts in the competitive fleet have already turned to BMComposites for their requirements. We undertook a significant programme of works for the Wally 93 Bullitt as well last season, which resulted in a win for her at the 44th Rolex Middle Sea Race." - Luke Hendy, BMComposites
Modifications have also been impactful for the Wally Cento V, who came second at Palma Vela.
"We are really pleased. We made a bunch of changes and they seem to be working. The boat is eight years old and it had never really had any upgrades and so we used the winter to make these changes. We have all gone water ballast and changed bulbs and our sprit length is out now where everyone else's is. We have new aero rigging and a new sail dynamic how it fits to the boat, there are a lot of big things and a lot of smaller things. We are all working out a bunch of gremlins, but we are super pleased with where we are at." - Kenny Read, Tactician for SY V.
And it was V who was victorious at the Tre Golfi Sailing week earlier this month, winning their class and becoming the IMA Maxi European Champions.