Seventy-three per cent of first eleven Vendée finishers using same wind sensor
“Having the FT743-SM onboard nearly half the Vendée Globe fleet is a phenomenal milestone,” says Chris Trodden, head of business development at FT Technologies. And, of the first eleven skippers who crossed the finish line, eight used FT wind sensors.
Thus, Trodden believes that the FT743-SM wind sensor has cemented its status as a game-changer in competitive sailing.
He posits the sensors are trusted by nearly half the fleet, and says the FT743-SM has once again proven its ability to thrive in the harshest environments.
“This product was designed for customers who demand excellence,” he says. “Its widespread use this year reflects the fantastic results that were seen by our initial IMOCA customers and immense trust top-tier sailors place in it. A testament to its value at the pinnacle of competitive sailing.”
Back in 2023, Trodden told MIN: “We’re working with IMOCA teams who have our newly designed prototype which provides data comparison between their incumbent performance mechanical wind sensors and our new design.”
Since then, the sensor’s earned accolades for its precision and resilience, especially in the face of a storm and has been seen to deliver critical performance advantages to sailors.
While every skipper’s application of the sensor is unique, says Trodden, its adoption across such a significant portion of the leading boats underscores its reliability and effectiveness in the face of extraordinary challenges.
Building on the success of the FT743-SM, FT Technologies is now introducing the FT602—a lightweight, compact wind sensor for sailors seeking precision and innovation.
The latter employs the same Acu-Res Technology and comes in at a reduced weight of only 170g and is said to be suitable for both professional racers and / or passionate amateurs. The company has more details about its marine applications on its website.
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