Page 85 - Sharp September 2023

team alone determine the outcome of each race.
Additionally, and also unlike any other racing series, the or-
ganization’s ten teams aren’t just competing on the water. With the introduction of the SailGP Impact League, teams are also fighting to be the most sustainable in all their endeavours. On one end of the score sheet, crews track power usage, fuel consumption, waste, travel, and other “day to day” components of their activities as part of the race tour, aiming to be the most efficient in any way possible. On the other end, teams are asked to develop a program or initiative that improves an aspect of SailGP’s purpose strategy and helps to reduce waste, increase diversity, lower emissions, or develop opportunities for the teams’ female athletes. These projects are required to be innovative or incorporate technology, to foster collaboration, and to be communicated effectively both internally and externally.
The Canadian team has devised a number of ingenious and forward-thinking ideas for the Impact League. In 2022, they worked closely to support Oceanwise, a Vancouver-based non-profit organi- zation working to preserve and protect the world’s oceans. To do this, the Canadian team gathered water samples from around the globe to assist in Oceanwise’s monitoring of plastic levels and also helped
to facilitate several beach cleanups over the course of the season. For 2023, the team has partnered with WeCANFoil, a country-wide program designed to bring foiling (the above-the-surface sailing technique employed by SailGP’s boats) to youth programs. It’s a worthy cause and one that aims to inspire more young people to engage with the sport on an amateur level.
Back on the global circuit, SailGP’s future also looks bright. There are 10 teams currently on the grid but there is talk of further expansion and the league’s first Canadian race is earmarked for next summer (Halifax, Montreal, and Victoria are among the shortlisted host cities). Earlier this year, Rolex renewed its support of the series and is set to remain the presenting sponsor of SailGP for the next decade — a position the brand has proudly held since the formation of the league.
Things are also looking good for Team Canada and skipper Phil Robertson this year. After a strong start to the season, the team rests in fourth place and only two points away from the lead. Running a team stacked with former Olympians certainly helps, but they’re hoping for the season to continue this momentum. With a home race on the horizon, having a competitive Canadian boat in the water is bound to bring out a good crowd.
SHARPMAGAZINE.COM
SEPTEMBER 2023 85
WATCH