The San Francisco-based team representing the U.S. in the upcoming Red Bull Youth America’s Cup capsized their 45-foot boat during a practice run on the Bay on Sunday, team officials said.
The American Youth Sailing Force, a team of sailors ages 19 to 24, was the first team to capsize their boat while preparing for the youth race, which runs from Sept. 1-4.
No one was injured, and the boat was not seriously damaged, team officials said.
“It went over nice and gently,” helmsman Michael Menninger said in a statement. “The main things are that everyone is safe and there is no significant damage to the boat or wing. It’s good we are pushing our sailing and learning as a team.”
Repairs were under way today on the boat, which is expected to be water-ready again by the time the team sails on Friday.
A video of the boat capsizing was taken by the team (view above).
The American Youth Sailing Force is the youth team associated with Oracle Team USA, the defending champions of the America’s Cup, the regatta taking place in San Francisco later in September.
More information about the sailing races can be found online at www.americascup.com.
Dan McMenamin, Bay City News
