American Is World's 'Fastest' Dinghy Sailor

13th June 2014

MacDara Conroy

American Is World's 'Fastest' Dinghy Sailor

#Fireball - High performance helm Ned Goss has been rated the fastest dinghy sailor in the world, according to Sailing Anarchy.

The South Carolina-based Fireball racer was reportedly recorded by his Velocitek meter at hitting a peak speed of 36.5 knots off the coast of Charleston in a sea breeze typical for the area.

That incredible number, achieved in what Goss says was a virtually unmodified Mach 2, smashes the previous record of 32.4 knots set by Chris Rast by more than four knots.

But Goss believes he can go further, with mods to the vessel and optimum currents meaning "40 knots is just around the corner".

Sailing Anarchy has more on the story HERE.

Published in Fireball

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MacDara Conroy

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MacDara Conroy is a contributor covering all things on the water, from boating and wildlife to science and business

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Fireball: 60 years of history

Designed in 1962 by British naval architect Peter Milne, the Fireball is a two-person dinghy with spinnaker and trapeze, combining simplicity of construction, high performance and accessibility. Over the years, it has been a training ground for generations of sailors, developing skills in tactics and technique, and producing champions who later moved on to Olympic and offshore challenges. More than half a century later, it remains one of the most vibrant and passionate classes, also thanks to initiatives such as the Under 25 category, designed to engage new generations and keep the tradition alive.

At A Glance – Fireball Dinghy Specs

Crew 2 (single trapeze)
LOA 16 ft 2 in (4.93 m)
Beam 4 ft 6 in (1.37 m)
Hull weight 175 lb (79 kg)
Mast height 22.3 ft (6.8 m)
Mainsail area 108 sq ft (10.0 m2).
Jib / Genoa area 35 sq ft (3.3 m2).
Spinnaker area 140 sq ft (13 m2).