The Foiling Awards 2024 celebrated excellence in foiling innovation and the environmental stewardship of initiatives, among other notable recognitions.
Last week, the foiling community gathered in Genoa to celebrate the seventh edition of the Foiling Awards, honoring the most outstanding achievements in foiling sports, projects, and products over the past year. Hosted by journalist Francesca Frazza and sailing personality Bacci Del Buono, the event showcased the remarkable advancements and contributions to the world of foiling.
Supported by the Genoa City Council and included in the prestigious “Genova Capitale dello Sport 2024” program, the Foiling Awards underscored the growing significance of foiling technology and its impact on global sports and innovation.
In addition to the technology, sustainability, and craftsmanship awards discussed in this article, the Foiling Awards also included the prestigious Forlanini Award, named after the renowned Italian foiling pioneer. This award was granted to the WASZP Class, which received the esteemed Foiling Pathway Award 2024. The WASZP Class was recognized for its accessibility and affordability, making it a significant contributor to the expansion of foiling participation across diverse demographics.
The evening, held at the Magazzini del Cotone in Genoa’s historic Porto Antico, welcomed 250 guests, including key figures from the sailing world and representatives from the foiling industry.
Innovation in Technology: AC40 Flight Control System
The AC40 Flight Control System, recipient of the prestigious Innovation Technology Award at the Foiling Awards 2024, marks a significant milestone in foiling design and technology. Engineered for precise flight control and optimization, the system represents a remarkable leap forward in enhancing the performance and efficiency of foiling vessels.
Originally introduced as part of the America’s Cup competition, the AC40 has captivated audiences with its dynamic aerial maneuvers and high-speed acrobatics. Equipped with an automated flight/foiling control system, the AC40 pushes the boundaries of traditional sailing, offering a thrilling spectacle for spectators worldwide. Despite the complexities of navigating inconsistent sea states, the AC40’s innovative flight control system allows sailors to maintain control and stability, ensuring a seamless foiling experience.
“As the smaller sister-ship of the AC75, the AC40 launched in Auckland to much acclaim with speeds hitting the high 40s,” as stated on the America’s Cup website.
“The AC40 burst onto the sailing scene in late 2022, hot off the easels of the Emirates Team New Zealand Design Office. It has proven a sensation ever since, being adopted by all of the senior teams in the 37th America’s Cup as a training boat as well as being used in the first two Preliminary Regattas in Vilanova i La Geltrú and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia,” as explained in a 2023 article published by AC.
As the pinnacle of foiling technology, the AC40 represents a culmination of years of research and development by top-tier sailing teams. With its ability to perform in both auto and manual modes, the AC40 provides sailors with unparalleled control over pitch, immersion, and heel angles, enabling them to navigate various sea conditions with ease.
Outstanding Craftsmanship: Baltic Raven 111
Celebrating craftsmanship and ingenuity, the Baltic Raven 111 was honored as the standout one-off foiling boat of the year. Combining elegance with performance, the Baltic Raven 111 showcases the artistry and expertise of its creators, earning accolades for its exceptional design and sailing prowess.
The Baltic Raven 111 is designed for fast coastal and offshore sailing, capitalizing on Baltic Yachts’ expertise in building advanced composite structures to exacting standards. Under the guidance of Finnish designer Jarkko Jämsén, who worked on the interior and exterior, and in collaboration with naval architecture firm Botin Partners, the yacht boasts a modern and stylish living platform within a high-performance design envelope.
A collaborative effort involving a highly skilled team, including structural engineering by PURE Design and Engineering, ensured the Baltic Raven 111’s success. Led by Project Manager Sam Evans and Project Coordinator Mattias Svenlin, Baltic Yachts’ internal team, alongside external management by A2B Marine Projects, meticulously oversaw the project’s execution to perfection.
From its minimalist and modern interior design to its lightweight structure, the Baltic Raven 111 embodies luxury and performance in equal measure. With materials like bamboo and rattan featured in the finish, the yacht strikes a balance between elegance and functionality. Delivering unparalleled comfort and style, the Baltic Raven 111 sets a new standard for foiling excellence, reaffirming Baltic Yachts’ position as a leader in the world of high-performance sailing.
Excellence in Projects: Seair Flying Chase Boat / D-boat 120
Recognizing visionary projects in the design phase, the Seair Flying Chase Boat / D-boat 120 garnered acclaim for its groundbreaking design and engineering. Spearheaded by Persico Marine, the project exemplifies the cutting-edge innovation driving the future of foiling technology, promising unparalleled performance and versatility upon its launch.
The Foiling Awards 2024 not only celebrated past achievements but also served as a catalyst for future innovation and collaboration within the global foiling community. As the event concluded, the stage was set for continued progress and advancement, with the spirit of innovation and excellence guiding the foiling industry into new frontiers of possibility.
