V8 Sportsboat - Introduction

The V8 is a very versatile boat, with a lifting keel and rudder it is easily launched and recovered, almost anywhere, using only its road trailer. She can be used for cruising with the family or round-the-cans aggressive racing.

Primarily geared towards racing, the aim is to produce a tight one-design class which would be relatively easy to sail and economical. The V8 is a strict one-design, where each boat is identical in every respect.

The V8 one-design has many features which will add to its success:

• The spar package has been designed to give ultimate performance with mast, boom and bowsprit all made of carbonfibre, to maximise weight saving. The mast has been designed to give optimum bend characteristics with ultra-light weight and enhanced durability. Only one spar manufacturer is permitted within the class, making sure everyone is on equal ground.

• The sail plan on the boat is a real performance factor. Upwind powered by a large mainsail and a choice of two jibs. Downwind the power is provided by a large masthead asymmetric spinnaker. Most unique of all, Race1 have chosen Hyde Sails to be the sole sailmaker. Hyde will produce fore and aft sails in Kevlar with 'smoke' UV film. The spinnaker will be made in 0.75oz Dynalite. Sole sailmaker adds to the one-design element of this class, this will in turn lead to tighter, more competitive racing. Everyone can rest easy knowing they have the same equipment as their competitors on the race track. Sail costs can be kept at a steady, lower price, reducing annual costs.

• Lifting keel and 'pintled' rudder means that the V8 is easily launched from almost any beach or slipway.