Direct Methanol Fuel Cell powers success in 50th Rolex Fastnet Race

The Ugly Duckling

Tom Chicken marked his fourth participation in the Rolex Fastnet Race with an excellent third place finish in his class. The crew of The Ugly Duckling battled two storms with gale force winds, some of the most difficult conditions for many years.

A pivotal decision marked this year’s race for the crew – the implementation of the EFOY 150 DMFC for the second time aboard this boat. The fuel cell effortlessly powered critical onboard systems throughout the grueling 800-mile journey. Notably, the fuel cell provided a steady supply of energy to essential components including the fridge, freezer, navigation equipment and mobile phones. The consistent and reliable voltage of the battery eliminated the need to run the engine, resulting in reduced maintenance and enabling the team to allocate more time and energy to focus on the race itself.

Tom Chicken’s use of the EFOY 150 showcased his commitment to environmentally-conscious sailing. The crew’s minimal consumption of 10 liters of methanol underscored their dedication to both the sport of sailing and the imperative of sustainable, eco-friendly practices.

The seven days spent at sea during the race were not without their challenges. Yet, the reliable power supply generated by the fuel cell allowed the crew to focus on the competitive aspect of the race, showcasing their prowess and skill on the challenging waters.

Reflecting on the race, Tom Chicken commented: “This was undoubtedly the toughest Fastnet Race on such a small boat, but the freedom from the power-related anxieties provided us with invaluable time and effort to focus on the race”.

Tom Chicken’s success in the 50th edition of the race serves as a testament to the fusion of experience, innovation and environmental consciousness. The use of the EFOY 150 aboard the boat highlights the potential of innovative eco-friendly technologies in the world of competitive sailing.