SailGP: A New Thrill in Abu Dhabi
New Zealand's black catamaran glides over the finish line at the deep-water Zayed Port, its 29-meter-long carbon fiber wing stiff in the sea breeze. Thousands of spectators erupt in excited cheers as the Kiwis take their second win in the Persian Gulf in a matter of weeks. This exhilarating scene marks the rise of a new sport in the United Arab Emirates' capital - SailGP. The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix, presented by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, is a captivating addition to the global 13-race calendar. It promises two days of adrenaline-fueled racing, as crews compete for valuable points accumulated from races in cities such as San Francisco and Sydney. With the aim of delivering a better race and an enhanced entertainment spectacle, SailGP's chief, Russell Coutts, is steering this thrilling new course in the world of sailing. The F50 catamarans, capable of reaching speeds of nearly 100 km/h, are set to captivate a wider audience with their high-speed, high-stakes races.
SailGP's F50 catamarans on the water in front of the Abu Dhabi skyline
The F50 catamarans, with their cutting-edge technology and high-speed capabilities, are the center of attention in the world of SailGP. These state-of-the-art vessels, costing around $5 million to build, have garnered a dedicated viewership, with a record 1.78 million viewers in the United States tuning into the Spain leg of the championship. However, to ensure the sport's sustainability and growth, the focus is on expanding and attracting newer audiences. Coutts emphasizes the importance of breaking down barriers and providing more entertainment around the racing, as exemplified by the inclusion of English pop group Take That as the star headliner in Abu Dhabi. With a short format packaged into a 90-minute broadcast window, SailGP is setting the stage for a new era of sailing entertainment and engagement.
SailGP hopes to increase the interest of sailing as a spectator sport.
Sailing to Sustainability
The F50 catamarans in SailGP are not just sailing; they are flying. The concept of foiling, akin to flying in the sailing sport, revolutionizes the experience of sailing. However, the environmental impact of such advanced vessels cannot be overlooked. The series' carbon footprint, including fan travel and supply chain logistics, poses a significant challenge. In response, SailGP is taking proactive steps toward sustainability. From remote television production to the establishment of an Impact League awarding points based on sustainability and inclusivity efforts, the organization is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting a cleaner environment. Nicole van der Velden, a member of the Spanish crew, highlights the league's efforts to evolve the sport, emphasizing the use of solar and wind energy to power up everything needed for the races. The focus on sustainability aligns SailGP with the global movement toward environmental responsibility, setting a new standard for sailing events.
Adventurer Markus Pukonen is traveling the world on non-motorized transport.
Amidst the technological marvel of the F50 catamarans, the logistical challenges of moving these vessels and the environmental impact of the races must be carefully managed. SailGP's emphasis on sustainability and inclusivity not only sets a new precedent for sailing events but also reflects a commitment to the global movement for environmental responsibility and inclusivity in sports.
Abu Dhabi's Maritime Heritage and Inclusivity
The host city of Abu Dhabi holds a rich maritime heritage, with pearl diving once driving the economy and fishing deeply embedded in tradition. Now, against the backdrop of the modern city skyline, SailGP's presence in Abu Dhabi marks a convergence of tradition and technology. The partnership between SailGP and Mubadala, an Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund, underscores the city's commitment to reviving its maritime heritage and embracing advanced technologies. Beyond the thrill of the races, there is a concerted effort to engage the younger generation and promote inclusivity through SailGP's Inspire program. With nearly 16,000 participants engaged and partnerships to promote STEM education, SailGP is not only transforming the sport of sailing but also inspiring the next generation to explore science, technology, and the latest advancements in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
In the pursuit of inclusivity, SailGP has made significant strides by introducing the Women's Pathway program, aiming to promote gender inclusivity in the sport. The involvement of women in strategic roles within the crews and the commitment to nurturing female talent reflect SailGP's dedication to breaking barriers and creating opportunities for women in sailing. As the sport aims to attract larger audiences and lower its carbon footprint, the emphasis on inclusivity and sustainability remains at the forefront of its endeavors.
