Rob Sets New U.S. Record – Jamie 2nd fastest American Sailor!
Monday, November 16th, 2009
Luderitz Claims Victim
A new American overall record was posted by Rob Douglas with an average speed of 50.95 knots (Ratified) and a top speed of 55.5 kts /63.82 mph on the 14th of November. This is now the 2nd fastest kitesurfing speed and 3rd fastest outright sailing speed in world history.
Rob’s best run was a dramatic, end of the day, tide going out event. He waited near the top of the course for the best combination of wind and tide…the last competitor on the course of the day. With the tide near minimum requirements, Rob was forced to sail in the newly dug speed trench for the entire 500m.
Rob With Pedal Down
Jamie posted his best run of 47.7 knots during Saturday’s competition in winds gusting 45knots. Jamie’s success rate for completing runs has been low, many resulting in crashes near the bottom of the course. With this speed Jamie became the 2nd fastest American sailor in history…surpassing windsurfer Roddy Lewis (44.21 knots in Fuerteventura, Spain in 1995) Still developing his stance and gaining more kite / board knowledge / control, Jamie is happy to have moved up in the overall event rankings…currently sitting in 6th place. The other American sailor is Mike Hall of St. Petersburg, Florida just a few places back.
Sunday brought less wind (35 knots) and a more square course as the wind backed into a southerly direction. Rob won the day with a 50 knot + run out pacing Alex Caizergues (current world record kitespeed champion) of France who posted a run of around 48.5 knots, 2nd place for the day. The wind has now gone calm in Luderitz. Competitive conditions probably won’t arrive until later in the week.
Jamie Approaching Finish Line
With these recent results Team Black Dog / NASSP currently are the two fastest sailors in US history.
Rob With Back to the Chopkiller at 50+