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Six masts snapped in one day: Melges European Championship Tønsberg
September 3, 2026 · 2 min · 613 views · Tønsberg
What this video covers
During the Melges European Championship in Tønsberg, Norway, six boats suffered mast failures in a single day due to heavy wind conditions. The racing schedule included four planned regattas, but the high-intensity environment caused multiple rigs to collapse during the second downwind leg. One competitor reported that their mast exploded suddenly without warning, a fate shared by five other crews during the same event. While professional teams with extensive global racing experience managed the conditions, the incident highlighted the physical demands placed on the fleet. The regatta continues with additional races scheduled through Friday, followed by a closing ceremony and medal presentation. The affected crew could not secure a replacement mast from local suppliers, effectively ending their participation in the championship. The event remains on track to complete ten total races despite the equipment losses.
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