UFO halts trans-Atlantic record attempt

(July 28, 2023) – On course in an attempt to set a new North Atlantic record, the maxi trimaran Sails of Change collided with an unidentified floating object early last night, resulting in the breakage of the port rudder.

Sails of Change, the largest ocean-racing trimaran at 37 metres long and 23 metres wide, reduced speed and has turned back towards New York. She should docked in a couple of days’ time when a full inspection of the maxi trimaran can be carried out.

“It’s a great disappointment for the whole crew,” noted skipper Yann Guichard about his 11-crew. “We were all prepared for the exceptional conditions to attempt this legendary record. As soon as we set off the team was focused and in the right sailing mode. But as night fell we collided with an unidentified floating object.

“We all knew that our challenge would be subject to many ups and downs as the record is hard to come by. Fortunately, none of the crew was injured. For all of us, it’s a great disappointment. We’re going to take some time to digest what has happened before looking ahead to what comes next.“

Guichard’s team sought to break the record set by Pascal Bidegorry in August 2009 aboard the same boat (previously called Banque Populaire V) of 3 days, 15 hours and 25 minutes.