A new breed of athletes, known as ‘cyclors,’ are making waves in the America’s Cup.
- Cyclists like Simon van Velthooven and Ashton Lambie have transitioned from the velodrome to sailing.
- Technological rule changes have allowed the use of legs for power, leading to increased efficiency.
- Cyclors are essential for the performance of modern AC75 yachts, capable of speeds up to 50 knots.
- The integration of cycling technology has redefined the dynamics of the competition, setting new benchmarks.
Simon van Velthooven, an accomplished cyclist with Olympic, World, and Commonwealth medals, has adapted his skills to become a ‘cyclor’ on an America’s Cup yacht. He describes the experience as being ‘shaken around, holding on while turning cranks,’ highlighting the physical demands and complexity of the role.
The transition to cyclors came after the 37th edition of the America’s Cup introduced rule changes reducing crew sizes and allowing power generation from any body part. Utilizing leg power, which is significantly stronger than arm power, has resulted in a 25-30% increase in watts produced per athlete.
Van Velthooven was among the pioneering cyclors in the 2017 America’s Cup with Emirates Team New Zealand, which successfully employed this technology to win the competition. This approach has now been adopted by all six competing teams.
The 2024 America’s Cup AC75 yachts, designed to ‘fly’ on foiling monohulls, require athletes to overcome challenges such as seasickness and high G-forces. Terry Hutchinson of American Magic underscores the need for unique athletes who can perform consistently in such demanding conditions.
Cyclors differ from traditional cyclists; they focus on producing maximum wattage when needed rather than sustaining power over long durations. Ben Day of American Magic notes that cyclors are typically heavier, prioritising strength over the high power-to-weight ratios valued in cycling competitions.
Former cyclists like Ashton Lambie, renowned for breaking records in individual pursuit, have joined America’s Cup teams to leverage their cycling expertise. Lambie has undergone significant physical changes, gaining muscle mass to meet the demands of his new role, and describes the distinct sensations of pedalling on water compared to track cycling.
Cyclors’ training regimens have adapted to the unique requirements of yacht racing. For instance, Matt Gotrel from Ineos Britannia highlights the shift in focus from general fitness to specific power training, involving long rides, high-intensity intervals, and weight training.
The close relationship between cycling and sailing is exemplified by Ineos Britannia’s collaboration with the Ineos Grenadiers cycling team. This partnership has provided valuable insights into training and nutrition, benefiting athletes like Gotrel in their transition to cyclors.
The America’s Cup is as much about design as it is about sailing. Teams are meticulously integrating cycling technology into yacht design, ensuring optimal performance and aerodynamics. David Adcock of Ineos Britannia explains how positioning cyclors has been refined to maximise power output while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency.
Technological advancements in the America’s Cup, such as the use of data analytics and F1-inspired steering wheels, have significantly transformed the sport. Hutchinson likens operating an AC75 to playing a sophisticated video game, requiring precision and quick reflexes.
The integration of cycling expertise into America’s Cup sailing has redefined the competition, showcasing the innovative fusion of athletic skill and cutting-edge technology.
