Spinnaker run: Fireball makes mark on newest defender

A long, slender bulb was the most striking feature on Team New Zealand's yacht NZL82 when it was unveiled yesterday.

That was not just because it is long and slender, but also because it has been decorated with bright-orange flames.

The fireball painted on the keel bulb has become a tradition at Team New Zealand.

NZL32 sported the flames in San Diego in 1995 and NZL60 had them in the last successful defence.

A lucky charm possibly?

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Team New Zealand designer Clay Oliver tries to explain the reason behind the bulb.

"The bulb is a trade-off between a lower centre of gravity for more stability and there is more wetted surface so there is more frictional drag. So it is a low speed, high speed, low wind, high wind, upwind, downwind tradeoff."

Say what?

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In an interview on a sailing website, OneWorld designer Laurie Davidson gave his views on Team New Zealand's hull appendage, known as the hula.

"Team New Zealand has created the boat we would all like to draw but haven't because of the rules governing the hulls.

"I think the NZ boats are plainly illegal [with the hula] under Rule 26B. The device contravenes the rule.

"Look at it yourself. It's very simple to read. The measurer shouldn't have allowed it in the first place."

Davidson said the hula clearly gave extra effective length from a device that was not technically part of the hull but acted as part of the hull.

"There's not much advantage in light winds," he said. "It's most effective in stronger winds with the boat sailing at higher speeds.

"With the NZ Royal Yacht Squadron running the races, you won't see them run in lighter airs."

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Team New Zealand clothing is a big seller around the world, with Germany leading the way.

Line 7 managing director Ross Munro is amazed at the interest in his company's clothing.

The company, which has an office and warehouse in Germany, has a significant internet sales network, with 95 per cent of all sales through the website going overseas.

"It is a bit like the kids who want to buy a Manchester United shirt," Munro said.

"Yachting enthusiasts around the world perceive Team New Zealand as the best and want to associate with them."

On the local market, the replica clothing has been the biggest seller.

"People want to wear what the sailors do," said Munro, who has been associated with Team New Zealand for the past decade.

"Some lines have sold out."

Munro's company is also involved in the "Loyal" programme which he says is picking up as interest in the America's Cup builds.

nzherald.co.nz/americascup

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