RC44 has chosen RIBA Marine Division

Russell Coutts has chosen RIBA Composites for the masts of its new RC44, the high performance one-design racer created for top level racing in international regattas under strictly controlled Class Rules. The RC44 was designed by Coutts Justin Design as a light displacement high performance racer. The concept and the design features of the RC 44 are dedicated to the helmsmen racing in international fleets sailing events.

The objective of the Class is to develop a high level and entertaining racing program, and to strictly keep the one-design aspect of the RC44, by ensuring that all boats are as identical as possible in terms of construction, hulls' shape and appendages, weight distribution, deck layout and equipment, sail plan and performance. The RC44 is produced by a limited number of licensed builders who are required to adhere to the same building procedures. "We wanted to include a degree of complexity so an owner can experience what a top-end race boat is like to sail, and it delivers on that", explains Russell Coutts. "Yet we also wanted it to be easy to own - you can race this boat in summer and if you wish put it away relatively easily in winter."

RIBA Composites is One-Design RC44 official supplier for
Masts and Riggings, Booms, Bow Sprits, Rudder Wheels and Pedestals, Keels and Trim Tabs.

Mast & Rigging

The mast shape has a variable section, designed specifically for this boat, to improve the mast-sail aerodynamic interaction. The mast is produced in two segments for transport reasons, the joint is at the second spreader position and is secured with titanium bolts and titanium backing plates. Rig is fractional with three backswept spreaders. Standing rigging is continuous in PBO with turnbuckles below the deck, to save weight to reduce windage and provide a clean visual appearance. The boom and pivoting retractable bowsprit are also made of carbon. The running backstays are non-structural. The PBO forestay has a hydraulic ram and is fitted with headfoil as standard.

Keel

The keel is built of carbon pre-preg material on moulds, cured in autoclave at high temperature and pressure. A weed cutter is fitted in the keel leading edge. The trim tab is built in carbon with RTM technology.