Over the weekend, the New York Harbor was buzzing with excitement as SailGP brought a unique F1 on water experience to the city. Thousands of spectators gathered to witness the high-speed competition, complete with champagne celebrations, against the backdrop of the iconic Statue of Liberty.
The SailGP races feature state-of-the-art F50 catamarans, each costing around $5 million, racing at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour. Founded in 2018 by tech billionaire Larry Ellison and five-time America’s Cup winner Russell Coutts, SailGP aims to create a mainstream sailing league with events held across the globe throughout the year.
Unlike the America’s Cup, which takes place every four years, SailGP offers fans the opportunity to follow the action regularly and experience the thrill of high-adrenaline racing up close. The New York Sail Grand Prix, part of SailGP, attracted sailing enthusiasts from far and wide, with spectators boarding ferries to Governors Island to catch a glimpse of the action.
Despite the scorching heat in New York City, fans were undeterred, turning out in record numbers to watch the catamarans glide across the water against the stunning backdrop of Lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. Among the spectators was U.S. soccer player Jozy Altidore, who is also an investor in the event, adding to the excitement of the day.
One attendee, Jennifer Falvey, a real estate agent from Woodstock, Vt., traveled to New York specifically for the event, highlighting the draw and popularity of SailGP among sailing enthusiasts and fans of high-speed water sports. The event showcased the thrill and excitement of competitive sailing, bringing together people from different backgrounds and locations to witness the spectacle unfold.
As the SailGP continues to grow in popularity and reach, it offers a unique opportunity for fans to experience the thrill of high-speed sailing and witness top athletes compete in a dynamic and engaging environment. The combination of cutting-edge technology, skilled athletes, and stunning locations like the Statue of Liberty creates a one-of-a-kind experience that captivates audiences and showcases the beauty and excitement of the sport.