OCTOBER 2024 | STEALTH carbon sweep riggers, now available on the U8.12 and U8.21, are the next generation in Ultimate Shark Predator (USP) technology. The STEALTH U8.32 debuts October 2024.
The STEALTH Eight showcases groundbreaking construction that combines winning SHARK hull speed with greater stability. As a SHARK wraps itself in the silence of the deep, moving like a shadow, the STEALTH Eight quietly attacks without warning.
Imagination drives innovation in USP philosophy, allowing HUDSON to rethink design without limitations. “To undertake a project of this magnitude, we explored new rigger mold-making technologies” explains Chris McCully, Engineering Manager. “We developed a mold made from composite materials that allows us to increase production and gives us greater control on overall dimensional stability.” The resulting manufacturing consistency ensures a cohesive row from stroke to bow.
STEALTH carbon sweep riggers transfer athlete power into efficient strokes right from the start. STEALTH Eight hulls have lower cockpit deck heights with no changes to the standard gunnel heights. This brings athletes to an optimized position closer to the water, capturing horizontal movement. Athlete positioning can be easily adjusted on the rigger’s carbon fibre C-bracket. The C-bracket’s length easily accommodates oarlock-to-seat height changes and installation of telemetry instruments. The sleek STEALTH one-piece design requires no additional stay and is available in multiple rigging configurations
The STEALTH carbon sweep riggers have been engineered and manufactured with greater stiffness and durability than its competitors. Each rigger is built in-house in London, Ontario, alongside hulls and parts. HUDSON continues to own the manufacturing process from inception to final production, ensuring quality and consistency. “We’re proud to showcase our manufacturing vertical integration with this development,” says McCully.
The STEALTH Eight is quickly becoming the high-performance advantage for winning teams: the U19 USA Women’s Eight rowed to victory at the 2024 World Rowing Championships in the STEALTH U8.21. The University of Texas rowed the STEALTH U8.21 to win the 1st Varsity Eight at the 2024 NCAA DI Championships.
As Dave O’Neill, Head Coach at the University of Texas explains, “The first time our crew stepped into the STEALTH they noticed a difference and felt comfortable. While the bow-mounted riggers are the most noticeable difference, the more subtle improvements had the biggest impact on stability and speed. We literally never had a bad row or race in that boat, and we’ve decided to have both our top eights race in the STEALTH moving forward.”
Contact your local sales representative to discuss STEALTH Eight options for your crew.