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In 1999 the Solar Slalom was added. This is a combination of speed and maneuverability around a closed course. Here we see that the Coast Guard hull cuts a clean path through the water with very minimum wake. Steering is very positive.
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The rules require the photovoltaic panels to be mechanically attached to the hull with a lanyard so they cannot fall off and be lost in the water. This team from Grand Valley has worked out a very reliable system. The electrical interconnection of the panels is extremely important.
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For the Endurance Event, the field is divided into Heats. A "high line" is used to give each skipper something to hold, to keep their boat in position for the start. Cedarville College, in the near lane, uses a surface-piercing prop which caused the rudder to be offset and some resultant steering problems.
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Although there is not full sun, quite a bit of solar energy is still available. It is very important that the solar systems are designed to be able to manage changes in incoming solar energy. Since solar cells are relatively insensitive to sun angle, most boats are designed with flat arrays.
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The Endurance Event is run for 2 hours around a roughly circular course. Overtaking boats stay to the outside. It is very important that the slower boats hold a consistent line to avoid interference. Anticipation is very important for all of the skippers.
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The rules also require radio communication with the boats when they are on the water. Although this is a safety issue, most communications are used for energy management strategy.
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The atmosphere is very friendly, and everyone pitches in to help get boats launched. Once the Event is underway, everyone gets their "game face" on. Concentration is vital to success.
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We see a number of female skippers. Is it because they are cool heads under pressure? It is not because of weight as all skippers are ballasted to the same weight.
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Plan ahead. Here, the Team Leader for the 2000 Splash is busy re-charging batteries. Activities don't slow down much between events as teams are busy using their solar panels to re-charge. The Endurance Event is designed for about half stored energy and half real time energy from the sun.
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Even a spiked "do" is forgotten in the heat of competition. Overall points for the Endurance Event are the sum of the distance traveled in the morning and afternoon heats.
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Are we having fun yet? The team leader from Park School seems to be. All craft must have a tow line on their bow, in case they break down on the course.
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At the Awards Ceremony, the Tech Prep team presents Solar Splash with a plaque of thanks for the assistance we provide and for the opportunity to participate in the Event.
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KIT, the World Champions, take a bow. Out of a total of 1000 points, their margin of victory was only 5. Every year we see that only a very few points separate several places. Paying attention to the many details can really pay off.
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