Extreme Sailing Series Act 8 - Gac Pindar capsize + Video

by Team Pindar on 14 Dec 2014 The 2014 Extreme Sailing Series finale ended with late drama as GAC Pindar Team Australia capsized in front of their home fans.

Sydney locals were out in full force to cheer on the home team but GAC Pindar, who have been flying the Australian flag all season, had their day cut short following an unfortunate incident with Realteam.

Nathan Wilmot, GAC Pindar's Skipper, commented 'From my point of view we sailed over the top of Realteam on the run. We were hit hard with the impact just ripping off the rudder and the capsize was then imminent. Everyone is fine and we're hoping the rig is in one piece. Obviously we're down one rudder but the main thing is that everyone's O.K'

'It's a disappointing end to the week for us but it's been incredible sailing on Sydney harbour and we've enjoyed all the support from our home fans'.

Chief Umpire, Ewan McEwan, called the incident differently: 'There was about 15 knots on the course, so fantastic sailing conditions and very manageable. GAC Pindar were the windward boar and therefore required to keep clear of Realteam. The resulting damage to their (GAC Pindar) rudders meant they lost control of the boat which caused them to capsize.'

'The safety team were quickly on hand, and the guest who was part of the GAC Pindar team was transferred back to the guest RIB – with a smile on her face'.

After an action packed season it was the Swiss team, Alinghi, who were crowned overall champions after scoring the highest combined total from the eight Acts; Singapore, Oman, China, Russia, U.K, Turkey, France and Australia.

Bragging rights for this week's sailing also went to Alinghi, who topped the Sydney leader board with 189 points.



The 2015 Extreme Sailing Series recommences in Singapore on 5th February 2015.

For more information about GAC Pindar and the Extreme Sailing Series, go to: event website.