Velero Reginavideo

El fallo del back stay

28 February 2025 · 9 min · 2K views · Grand Anse d'Arlet, Martinique

What this video covers

Javi, owner of the Regina, experienced a backstay failure while crossing the Atlantic Ocean.0:59 The failure occurred at the connection point where the backstay attaches to the hull.5:51 Javi had previously installed stainless steel shackles to increase tension, but these components were not marine-grade 316 stainless steel and lacked the necessary articulation provided by a proper toggle.4:20 The lack of movement caused the metal to fatigue and eventually snap under load.5:40 Because the Regina is a cutter rig equipped with running backstays, the mast remained supported after the primary backstay failed.2:56 Javi temporarily repaired the connection using spare shackles to complete the passage, though a subsequent inspection revealed a fracture in the opposite backstay fitting as well.6:36 He ultimately replaced the failed hardware with high-quality 316 stainless steel toggles designed for standing rigging.7:44 Using non-articulated hardware in high-load standing rigging leads to metal fatigue and catastrophic failure.

Watch on YouTube

More from Velero Regina

Regina has been soldSept 2026Miss Regina Boat TourAug 2026The newsAug 2026Azores to the Peninsula. What went wrong?Aug 2026

From Velero Regina — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analysed video.

The Sailing Directory Newsletter

One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.

Report an issue