Proving that the Tornado has what it takes + Video

by Andrew Dowley on 28 Oct 2011 This coming week, the Tornado Class along with its representatives, will head to San Juan, Puerto Rico for the annual International Sailing Federation conference which is held from the 3-13 November.

They are off to prove to the ISAF and MNAs that the Tornado has what it takes to return as the Olympic Multihull ahead of next year's trials. Since the controversial removal of the Multihull from the Olympic Games back in 2007 the Tornado Class have been at the forefront of the campaign to bring two hulls back to the highest level of sailing.

The Tornado was designed specifically to be the Olympic Class Multihull and sailed its first Olympics in 1976. Since then, with constant refinement of underwater shapes, construction techniques, and sail plan, the boat has continued to go faster and faster. In spite of the best efforts of many other designers and builders worldwide, the Tornado still reigns supreme as the fastest production catamaran in the world.

For the past 40 years the Tornado Class have had mixed teams at the top of the rankings. The class has a great mixed sailing history and many legendary mixed sailing teams. Some of you may remember Paul and Trine Elvström (DEN) who were the great heroes in the 80s at the Olympic Games.

Currently the vice World champions in the Tornado Class are a mixed team. Carolijn Brouwer (Helm) was also crowned vice World champion back in 2007 and Nahid Gaebler (Crew) was World champion in 2010. Nahid Gaebler is playing the 24sqm Gennacker with ease downwind and the mainsheet on the upwind legs of the course. 80% of the women sailing Tornados are crewing!

With the new and strict High Quality One Design concept, the Tornado is well prepared for the Olympic Games Rio 2016.

- Best weight range for Olympic Mixed Sailing Teams (120-170kg).
- Worldwide boat availability and class structure.
- Proven Olympic Quality and longevity.
- Olympic material world record. The same boat used for three Olympics!
- Low cost for Olympic Campaigners and MNAs. Best price-performance ratio.
- Tornado Material cost between 2.000 € to 4.000 € per year in a four year Olympic Campaign.
- Used Boats available from 6.000 € to 18.000 € on all continents.
- Brand new, long lasting boat ready to sail for 26,000 €
- IOC award for best Olympic Sailing TV coverage (Qingdao Medal Race).
- Highest Media Value for Tornado Team and Event Sponsors.
- Smart and Ecological Logistic Concept – minimal costs and highest efficiency.
- Young Talents and Olympic Champions are waiting for the Olympic Comeback of the Tornado
- Youth Multihull Program



Tornado Class website