AERO AERIALS - JOUSTING! Here is the over head Aero Aerial Video to accompany the photos posted previously. The Aero Action starts at about 30:00.
LPB Aerial Imagery presented their drone project last weekend to the RYA conference of race officials. One topic was to investigate the viability of drone imagery to aid umpires and the RS Aero Class were pleased to assist. Over 200 delegates all enjoyed the content and were very impressed with the RS Aero’s ability to manoeuvre and accelerate.
We had enormous fun Match Racing the Aeros that day. The rudder can lock out to such an extreme angle that, at low speeds and with some technique, it is possible to spin the boat almost on the spot! Two hours of hectic 'jousting' proved perfect boat handling training for the Winter Champs the following day, although a bit exhausting!
As can be seen, I did go for ‘one manoeuvre too many’ near the end and took a big hit square on my underside from Myles’ bow. I fully expected to be sinking but a quick check revealed only a small ripple and I was able to race the Winter Champs the following day with no work necessary. That was a really big test for the strength and robustness of the Aeros epoxy/carbon hull!
Thanks to all taking part; Umpires; John Doer, Roger Wilson, Jamie Sheldon Race Officers; Nick Hopwood, Gary Stones Imagery; LPB Aerial Imagery Sailors; Myles Mence, Peter Barton, Simon White, Jim Hood the Facilities of Lymington Town Sailng Club
and the Assistance of RS Sailing
Equipment: RS Aero 7s Wind: 12kn, gusting 17kn Footage: from 2nd January 2015 at Lymington
