A New Breed of Sailors Pedaling Their Way to Victory
- Cyclors are essential in modern America’s Cup racing due to their immense power output
- The return of cyclors in the 2024 Cup after being outlawed for the 2021 Cup
- Ex-rowers are being recruited as cyclors due to their strength and endurance
- Cyclors generate up to 500 watts for 20 minutes during a race
In modern America’s Cup racing, cyclors have become crucial for generating immense power to control hydrofoil yachts. Originally used by Team New Zealand in 2017, these athletes pedal stationary bikes to adjust sails during rapid maneuvers. With the semifinals underway, teams are focusing on finding the strongest candidates from a limited pool of ex-rowers and athletes with engineering backgrounds. Cyclors generate up to 500 watts for 20 minutes per race in harsh conditions.
Factuality Level: 8
Factuality Justification: The article provides accurate information about the role of cyclors in modern America’s Cup sailing races and their importance to the sport. It discusses the history of their use, how they are positioned on the boats, and the challenges faced by teams in finding suitable candidates for these positions. The article also includes quotes from relevant sources and provides details about the physical demands of the job.
Noise Level: 3
Noise Justification: The article provides relevant information about the role of cyclors in modern America’s Cup sailing races and their importance to the sport. It discusses the history of their use, how they are positioned on boats, and the challenges they face during races. The article also includes insights from experts and athletes involved in the sport. However, it lacks a deeper analysis or exploration of the broader implications of this development in sailing technology.
Private Companies: Ineos Britannia,American Magic
Key People: Matt Gotrel (cyclor), Ben Ainslie (skipper), Ben Day (performance lead)
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: The article discusses the impact of cyclors on America’s Cup sailing teams, which can affect the performance and success of these teams in competitions that are often sponsored by companies with financial stakes. The outcome of the races can lead to significant financial gains or losses for the sponsoring companies.
Financial Rating Justification: The article highlights the importance of cyclors in modern America’s Cup sailing, which can impact the performance and success of the teams competing in the event. These teams are often sponsored by companies with financial stakes, making the outcome of the races important from a financial perspective.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: No
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: No
Extreme Rating Justification: The article discusses the evolution of sailing techniques and the role of cyclors in the America’s Cup but does not mention any extreme event that occurred in the last 48 hours.·
Move Size: No market move size mentioned.
Sector: Technology
Direction: Up
Magnitude: Large
Affected Instruments: Stocks
www.wsj.com 
