Olympian Bora Gulari joins Quantum Racing as helmsman for 2017

by Quantum Sails on 10 Nov 2016 In January, when Quantum Racing toes up to the starting line at Quantum Key West Race Week, the crew will include Bora Gulari who is joining the team for the 2017 52 Super Series. With owner-driver Doug Devos steering the boat in Key West, Gulari will serve as strategist and begin his training with the team. Gulari is scheduled to take the helm in March with the Super Series Miami Royal Cup and will fill a very similar role as Ed Baird’s over past few years with Devos’ involvement.

Gulari is known for his 2016 Olympic Sailing on the Nacra 17 and the Moth, where he has claimed two World Championships. He is also a top Melges 20 and 24 sailor. Gulari’s experience on the TP52 goes back to 2009 and includes Steve Benjamin’s American TP52 Spookie and the helmsman position for Phil and Sharon O’Niel’s Natalie J, a Michigan-based 52. Gulari was also set to sail in the 35th America’s Cup aboard the Italian boat Luna Rossa before they withdrew from the competition. Adding to these credentials, Gulari was named 2009 Rolex Yachtsman of the Year.

Of his new role Gulari says, “The opportunity to be part of the best grand prix team around is awesome. I’m honored and excited to get on the boat. I can’t wait to get on with it!” When asked about his small boat sailing, Gulari says that will continue as well. “I have some unfinished work in the Olympic catamaran, and the Moth sailing keeps the skills sharp.”

“This choice may surprise people due to Bora’s reputation in multihulls and foiling,” says Quantum Racing manager Ed Reynolds, “but when you look at what’s he’s done on the 52s, you realize Bora is one of the most versatile and top performing sailors out there. We’re very confident he’ll be able to fit in this role, but everyone knows you don’t replace a guy like Ed Baird.”

Reynolds says the search for a new helmsman/strategist was launched when Ed Baird decided to accept a bid to work with Tony Langley’s Gladiator for 2017. “We’re pleased to welcome Tony as a new client, he’s been a stalwart of the 52 class. Through his new role, Ed will take the lead in transferring the Quantum methodology to Gladiator.”

As for the move, Baird says he is pleased to maintain ties with the Quantum Racing program while helping Quantum Sails deliver a high level of customer support and service to a new client. “This is a very exciting opportunity and I look forward to helping bring the Quantum Racing style of learning process to the Gladiator program.”