Dublin Bay Windsurfer Oisín van Gelderen has broken his previous Irish Sailing Speed Record while participating at the 'Luderitz Speed Challenge in Namibia.
Van Gelderen is taking part in the World Record Attempt, and after three 'fruitless weeks' of moderate conditions, today the multiple Irish champion smashed his own personal best in winds gusting up to 62 knots. (Storm Force 10).
All speed sailing records are measured over a 500m course, and his aim at this event was to become the first Irish Sailor to hit 100 kmph, (54knots), and to improve his previous record and better 50 knots over the 500m course.
Video time checked - official time 49.87 knots over 500m is Aa new Irish speed sailing record for Oisín van Gelderen
Looking for an Elusive 50-Knot Record
Although he finished slightly shy of that mark at 49.87 knots (92.36kph) average over the 500m course, on Saturday the forecast promises to be even more suitable for attaining higher speeds, and he told Afloat he is more confident that the 'best is yet to come'.
"Right now the wind is a little broad, so we are sitting it out, but wind strength is perfect at 35 gusting 56 knots. My goal is to set a record above 50 knots over 500m, so still plenty to do"
All speeds are subject to final ratification by the WSSRC (World Sailing Speed Records Council).
