“To have something that represents us as Kiwis, the colour black, and foiling – which is totally changing the sport – is really important,” explained Blair Tuke, the team’s wing trimmer.” – Blair Tuke
A New Era of Innovation
This season marks the debut of T-foils, replacing the legacy L-foils, a technological leap forward. According to Tuke, the T-foils enhance straight-line speed and provide greater stability at high velocities.
“It’s super exciting for the whole league to have this new component,” Tuke shared. “They’re faster, more stable, and give us a different level of control, especially at high speeds.”
However, mastering these foils comes with its challenges, particularly during manoeuvres, where timing and precision remain critical. The team has been fine-tuning their approach, leveraging recent practice sessions to optimise performance.
Hometown Pressure and Excitement
Racing on home waters adds a layer of intensity for the Black Foils. The course, stretching from Wynyard Quarter to the Harbour Bridge, offers spectators a front-row seat to the action, a stark contrast to races held far offshore.
“The proximity to shore is unlike anything people have seen before with these boats,” Tuke said. “The grandstand at Wynyard will give fans an incredible view – almost like being on the boat.”
The buzz around Auckland is palpable. Local cafes and waterfront businesses are thriving, and the excitement is building as the event draws near. Despite the pressure of racing at home, Tuke views it as a privilege.
“It’s a privilege to race in front of our home fans. The support here is incredible, and we’re stoked to showcase this style of racing to New Zealand.”
Bridging the Gap Between Sport and Culture
The name change to Black Foils reflects a broader ambition: making sailing more accessible to Kiwis. Historically perceived as an elite sport, SailGP has worked to resonate with a wider audience. Tuke acknowledges the impact of this rebrand on public perception.
“Since the name change, we’ve seen more people connecting with us. It’s simple but represents who we are as a team and as Kiwis.”
A Weekend to Remember
With winds forecasted to be strong and steady, the Black Foils are set to demonstrate their prowess on their home turf. Following a victory in Dubai, the team is determined to build on their momentum.
“It’s early days for us as a unit,” Tuke noted. “But the confidence from Dubai and the additional training days here have set a strong foundation.”
This weekend promises a spectacle that will elevate sailing in New Zealand to new heights. For those lucky enough to secure grandstand seats, it’s a chance to witness high-speed foiling action up close.
