Search Results (5)

This paper presents a novel multi-sensor system for enhanced maneuver analysis in Olympic dinghy sailing. In the ILCA class, there is an increasing demand for precise in-field measurement and analysis of physical properties beyond well-established velocity and course metrics. The low-cost setup presented in this study consists of a combination of commercially available sensor systems, such as the AdMos sensor for IMU and GNSS measurement, in combination with custom measurement systems for rudder and mast rotations using fully waterproofed potentiometers. Data streams are synchronized using GNSS time stamping for streamlined analysis. The resulting analysis presents a selection of 12 upwind tacks, with corresponding path overlays, detailed timeseries data, and performance metrics. The system has demonstrated the value of extended data analysis of in situ data with an elite ILCA 7 sailor. The addition of rudder and mast rotations has enabled enhanced analysis of on-water maneuvers for single-handed Olympic dinghies like the ILCA 7, on a level of detail previously reserved for simulated environments. Full article

Determining the reference base of anthropometric parameters on a sample of elite athletes is one of the foundations of further research and forming a clearer picture of each sport and sports discipline. In this study, the aim was to describe the anthropometric and somatotype profiles of elite Finn class sailors and to determine the differences in the measured parameters between sailors at different levels of general competitive success. The subject sample included 57 Finn class sailors who competed at the open Finn European Championship. A set of 25 anthropometric variables were applied. The sailors were divided into three groups according to their level of general competitive success using World Sailing Rankings. Finn sailors had higher average values in almost all morphological characteristics when compared to the sailors in other Olympic classes. Considering the average values of somatotype categories, we determined that Finn sailors fit the endomorphic mesomorph somatotype category (3.94 ± 1.19 − 5.50 ± 1.19 − 1.63 ± 0.74). Significant differences were observed between more-successful, medium, and less-successful sailors in the variables of age, body mass, muscle mass, arm muscle mass, and endomorphy rating. These results indicate the possibility of selection processes and/or adaptation to sailing occurring in the Finn class. The anthropometric characteristics of Finn sailors compared to sailors in Olympic classes further “support” the Finn class being called the “heavy dinghy” male class. This study on anthropometric parameters, determined via a sample of top Finn sailors, may be of great help to coaches and young sailors when deciding on the selection of an adult sailing class. Full article

Formula Kite is an Olympic sport that mainly differs from other kitesurfing modalities for the use of a hydrofoil. It is considered an extreme sport due to the great technical ability required. Regarding performance, the variables that determine performance in a real competition situation have not been studied, and even less so with Olympic sailors. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the technical and tactical variables that differentiate elite sailors. The sample consisted of 42 Olympic sailors of the Formula Kite class, who were evaluated in three World Cups. Using a GPS device, the speed, distance traveled, maneuvers, and time spent on the courses of upwind, downwind, and beam reach were recorded. The highest-level sailors presented a higher speed in upwind/downwind/beam reach and a shorter time in upwind and beam reach. Performance seems to be more strongly influenced by technical variables, such as speed, than by tactical variables. Full article

Laser class is an Olympic sport in which technical and tactical variables are very important in the performance of the sailor. However, the variables that determine performance in a regatta have not been studied, and less so with Olympic sailors. Therefore, the main objectives of this study are to analyze the technical and tactical variables that differentiate sailors based on their level of performance and sex and determine the most important courses in a regatta. The sample consists of 159 Olympic sailors (67 females) of the Laser class, who participated in a World Cup. Velocity made good (VMG), distance, and maneuvers were evaluated using Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) devices in the upwind, downwind, and broad reach courses. VMG in upwind and downwind is the technical variable that determines performance in the Laser class. The VMG is decisive in the performance of elite female sailors in the upwind, downwind, and broad reach courses, while in elite male sailors, performance is mainly influenced by speed in upwind and downwind and the distance covered in upwind. The maneuvers do not determine sailing performance in any of the courses of a regatta. Full article

Because of the long history of the Finn Dinghy sailing class, the difference between a gold medal and a mediocre result often comes down to personal mistakes of the sailor, or to who has the most optimised equipment. Regarding the latter, the Finn class rules permit certain design variations of the hull, mast, sail and rudder. In the current contribution, we describe a method for developing a customised rudder system aimed at optimal performance during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Based on hydrodynamic analysis of existing rudder designs, an improved rudder geometry was developed. Based on the concept geometry, the rudder and tiller were structurally designed and manufactured to achieve high stiffness and sufficient strength, while respecting the minimum mass requirements as specified by the rules. Full article