The first of the much-anticipated carbon foiling monohulls to be used in the Youth America’s Cup next year – the AC9F – has proved her capabilities. She flies!

A product of the Yachting Developments design team led by Bob Graham, a fleet of AC9Fs is being built at the company’s yard. More than 15 teams from around the world are confirmed for the event, which allows for simultaneous match racing.

This first AC9F model (christened Kōtare, meaning ‘Kingfisher’ in Maori) was completed in March but sea trials were delayed due to the Covid-19 nationwide lockdown.

“We still have more testing to complete but after her first sail it is good to confirm that she certainly flies,” says Ian Cook, managing director of Yachting Developments. “It was impressive work by everyone involved to achieve our goals so quickly,” adds designer Bob Graham.

The AC9F is an exciting design that will certainly test the best young sailors from around the world.