Royal Cork's John Ryan Breaks Cork-Fastnet-Cork World Powerboat Speed Record in 80-mph+ Zerodark RIB

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In 2021, I had the privilege of undertaking a consultancy project for Ophardt Marine, renowned for their exceptional boat production process, which involves precision welding by robotic systems. This advanced manufacturing method ensures that each boat is not only impeccably crafted but also 100% identical, eliminating any variances among the same product lines.

The primary challenge of this endeavor lay in the installation of the engines and communication packages, demanding not only flawless functionality but also the capability to withstand the rigorous journey from Cork to Fastnet at high speeds. Following the meticulous installation process and a battery of rigorous tests conducted on the River Rhein in Germany, the boat was subsequently transported to Ireland for further testing and fine-tuning.

My involvement extended to flying out to Ireland after several weeks to provide engine servicing and comprehensive system checks, ensuring that every component was operating optimally in preparation for the impending race. After meticulous inspection and testing, I gave the green light, signaling the commencement of the race from Cork to Fastnet, during which the world record was successfully shattered.

Participating in this project was a distinct pleasure and a testament to the collaborative efforts that contributed to its resounding success.