Artemis Racing Update: Speculation Clarification

Since the training accident on May 9 wherein America’s Cup challenger Artemis Racing incurred significant damage and suffered the loss of crewman Andrew Simpson, the team has revealed no information as to the cause of the incident.

There has, however, been no shortage of speculation, which is likely to continue until the facts are revealed. Considering that the team has video of the incident, the boat has load sensors, and there were witnesses both onboard and on support boats, there is now growing speculation as to why the team has not revealed the facts.

What Scuttlebutt has been able to confirm with Artemis Racing is that two recent news stories included incorrect details which were attributed to skipper Nathan Outteridge. According to Nathan, none of the following statements are true:

“Nathan heard a crack, and the next thing he knew, the catamaran he was piloting was airborne.” – Newcastle Herald

“Nathan’s crew members could see Bart, fighting for his life and dived beneath the water to try to set him free. They handed him emergency oxygen bottles.” – Newcastle Herald

“Nathan is unsure if he will compete in the America’s Cup in San Francisco in July.” – Stuff.co.nz

It is not expected that the training accident will impact the race schedule for the Louis Vuitton challenger series and America’s Cup match.