Dramatic Collision ends Maxi Grand Prix world Championship Hopes for Balthasar and Jethou
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Porto Cervo, Italy – A violent collision between the Maxi yachts Balthasar and Jethou during the final race of the Maxi Grand Prix World Championship on 2024/09/12 brought a premature end to both teams’ campaigns. Newly released video footage captures the full impact of the incident, revealing extensive damage that rendered both vessels unable to continue.
The clash, a port-starboard situation, occurred during the 35th Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup, the first official World Championship for the former Maxi72 class. Eight teams competed for the title, ultimately won by Django 7X, followed by Jolt and Bella Mente. The incident underscores the inherent risks of high-performance sailing, where split-second decisions can have significant consequences.
Video Reveals Extent of Damage
The video,obtained by ClubRacer,clearly shows the moment of impact and the resulting devastation to both yachts’ rigging.The force of the collision caused substantial damage, making it unfeasible for either Balthasar or Jethou to resume racing.
For Belgian skipper/owner Filip balcaen, son Louis Balcaen, and Dutch tactician Bouwe Bekking, the incident marked the end of their World Championship ambitions. Representing the Royal Belgian sailing Club and the New York Yacht Club, Balthasar had achieved scores of 7-5-7 prior to the collision, ultimately finishing eighth (last) with 37 points.
Sir Peter Ogden’s Jethou, helmed by Dutch skipper Marc Blees and representing the Royal Yacht Squadron, also sustained severe damage. The team finished sixth overall with 30 points, their results including 6-4-8-6-RDG-6, and were awarded redress (RDG) in the final two races.
Balthasar Deemed at Fault, Jethou Receives Redress
Race officials resolute Balthasar was at fault for the collision, and Jethou was granted redress consequently. The incident highlights how quickly a port-starboard situation can determine the fate of two teams during a major championship,
stated a race official. The severity of the damage to both vessels was promptly apparent.
Did You Know?
The Maxi Grand Prix World Championship was established as the official championship for the former Maxi72 class, elevating the competition and attracting top-tier sailing teams from around the globe.
Key data: Maxi Grand Prix World Championship Incident
| Yacht | Skipper/Owner | Club Portrayal | final Position | points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balthasar | Filip Balcaen | Royal Belgian SC / NYYC | 8th | 37 |
| Jethou | Sir Peter Ogden | Royal Yacht Squadron | 6th | 30 |
| Django 7X | (Not specified in source) | (Not specified in source) | 1st | (Not specified in source) |
Video Evidence Confirms Severity
The video footage provides a definitive account of the collision, illustrating the extent of the damage to both boats. This visual evidence clarifies why both Balthasar and Jethou were forced to withdraw from the World Championship.
Pro Tip: Understanding right-of-way rules is crucial in competitive sailing. A port-starboard collision typically results in the port-tacking vessel being held responsible.
About the Maxi Grand Prix World Championship
The Maxi Grand Prix World Championship,held as part of the 35th Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup in Porto Cervo,marked the inaugural official world championship for the former Maxi72 class. Rolex Maxi Yacht Cup. (2024). Retrieved from [https://www.maxiyachtrolexcup.com/](https://www.maxiyachtrolexcup.com/)
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the collision between Balthasar and Jethou?
The collision was a port-starboard incident, with Balthasar deemed at fault by race officials.
What happened to Balthasar after the collision?
Balthasar sustained significant damage and was forced to retire from the Maxi Grand Prix World Championship, finishing in eighth place.
Did Jethou receive any compensation for the collision?
Yes, Jethou was granted redress (RDG) by race officials due to the collision.
What is the Maxi Grand Prix World Championship?
The Maxi Grand Prix World Championship is the official world championship for the former Maxi72 class, held alongside the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup.
Where did the collision take place?
The collision occurred during the final race of the Maxi Grand Prix World Championship in Porto cervo, italy, on 2024/09/12.
This dramatic incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges and risks inherent in competitive sailing. We hope both teams can swiftly repair their vessels and return to the water soon.
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