Pewaukee, WI—Harken has equipped seven of the eight Volvo Open 70s entered in the 2008/09 Volvo Ocean Race with full hardware and winch packages. An evolution of the Volvo 70s in the last race, these Version 2 machines are capable of the same record-breaking speeds, but without compromising durability and safety. The 2008/09 course is also new—11 ports and 27,000 miles— and is a potent mix that challenges boats with a wide variety of conditions, testing the all-around performance and consistency of the equipment throughout the race.

"Because the V70 has become more robust, equipment needed to be lighter, but without sacrificing strength and durability," commented Peter Harken, company president. "We developed hardware used on the existing Volvo 70 platform and beefed up our AC-designed TTR blocks so they can travel around the world. These blocks are 98% efficient with lightweight aluminum sideplates and titanium rollers.”

Also onboard: carbon winch systems featuring pedestal-driven primary, mainsheet, runner and halyard winches; traveler and jib cars using strong, efficient CRX Captive roller bearings.

Harken first became involved in crewed circumnavigations in the 1989-1990 Whitbread Around the World Race when six maxi boats had deck hardware, including the second place finisher Fisher & Paykel. Harken continued its winning tradition on board Pinta Illbruck in 2002-2003. In 2005-2006 Harken hardware and winches were onboard winner, ABN AMRO ONE. "Our winches and hardware were faultless when we won on ABN AMRO ONE," said skipper Mike (Moose) Sanderson. "But then again, our trust in the gear has become so high; we never expected anything less from Harken."

Harken continues to innovate, researching new materials, using state-of-the-art design tools and software, and following up with great service to ensure its hardware and winch packages perform at the highest level. During the 2008-2009 Volvo Ocean Race, a Harken service team will travel to all 10 stopovers and provide teams with expert technical support.

Links:
Website: www.volvoocean race.org