Rolex Sydney Hobart - Another hurdle for McConaghy Ker 46 Patrice
by McConaghy Boats on 21 Dec 2013
McConaghy built Ker 46 Patrice Andrea Francolini
http://www.afrancolini.com/
Tony Kirby’s McConaghy Ker 46 Patrice has had excellent success since its launch a few months ago, securing a place in every race entered to date, and as the minutes slip away approaching the start of the Rolex Sydney Hobart, an unexpected challenge has arisen.
To enter the Rolex Sydney Hobart new yachts must provide a certificate created by ISAF that confirms that the structural engineering has been reviewed and approved by an independent certifying body.
In an unexpected twist, a slight difference has just emerged between the way Ker Yacht Design have been interpreting a specific area of the ISO structural rules for many years, compared to how the certifying body is now interpreting it. Without time to obtain a review and a definitive interpretation and with the start of the Sydney-Hobart looming Ker determined that there was no choice other than to make an adjustment to satisfy the certifying body.
Ker and McConaghy have swung in to action to order ensure Tony can compete in the Rolex Sydney Hobart. Ker have specified a modification with an addition of 5mm of foam core and a carbon skin to one hull panel, not a significant alteration, but not a small task when we are only days away from the start. The team at McConaghy Boats are burning the midnight oil, to complete this modification in time for Tony and his crew to make it to the start line on Boxing day.
Patrice was hauled out of the water at Woolwich dock on Tuesday for detailing and polishing below the waterline, completing what Tony and his crew thought would be the last couple of jobs on their list. Since becoming aware of this latest hurdle David Kellett at Woolwich dock has been very accommodating, making room for Patrice and the McConaghy team during their busiest time of the year whilst these last minute alterations are made. Patrice will be back in the water ready to race on Christmas eve!
Despite this obstacle, Tony is going ahead with his plans for the official christening of Patrice at Woolwich dock on Saturday McConaghy Boats
If you want to link to this article then please use this URL: www.sail-world.com/117762
