Imagine the wild thrill of NASCAR races — but on the water.
SailGP — a fast-paced, international sport that’s only four years old — will come to the Port of Los Angeles and San Pedro this weekend, with 50-foot catamarans from 10 countries competing in an ocean grand prix in the Outer Harbor.
Actually, they’ll often just skim and fly a few feet above the water.
And they race at speeds of more than 60 mph, thanks to 80-foot wing sails and six-member crews who are both top athletes and part “rocket scientists,” SailGP’s U.S. spokesperson, Laura Muma, said in a telephone interview.
The sport is risky and relies as much on strategy and tactics as on speed. There can be last-minute maneuvers, close calls — even some capsizes.
“A lot can — and does — happen,” she said. “But it’s important to note that these are the best athletes.”
When it comes to safety, training and teamwork, Muma said, “they’re second to none.”
While the sport has been staged in San Francisco several times — and the current season’s finals will be held there in July 2024 — this is the first time the grand prix has come to L.A.
The area has long attracted wind surfers for the late afternoon breezes.
The Outer Harbor and wind conditions just inside the breakwater — known locally as Hurricane Gulch — is “ready-made for these boats,” Muma said.
The event — dubbed the Oracle Los Angeles Sail Grand Prix — will be staged on Saturday and Sunday, July 22-23, at the end of Berth 46. Commentary and broadcast viewing will complement the live racing experience, organizers say.
“The location is outstanding,” said POLA spokesperson Arley Baker. “The strong afternoon winds should make for some fast racing. These boats are really exciting to watch.”
SailGP, based in London, is also known for its focus on environmental sustainability, Baker said, and the organization has already touched base with AltaSea, the marine science campus nearby, and…
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