Kirst's role
Date of Birth: April 6, 1972
Birthplace: St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
Nationality: USVI
Position: Design Engineer
Kirst is a new member to the ORACLE Racing design team, having joined in the summer of 2010. He is responsible for the design of the centerline spine structure and the daggerboard systems.
“The spine structure is part of the backbone of the catamaran that allows the yacht to balance the huge headstay loads. The spine is the most highly loaded part of the yacht,” says Kirst. “I participate in all aspects of the yacht design, and contribute where I can.”
Although new to ORACLE Racing, Kirst has worked alongside some other teammembers. Kirst joined ORACLE Racing after an eight-year stint with Alinghi, where he worked with Dirk Kramers (Engineering) and Murray Jones of the sailing team. In years past he’s also worked with Scott Ferguson, one of the team’s wingsail designers.
“I worked at Hall Spars in Rhode Island from 1995 to 2000 where I got to know Scott and Dirk. We were all involved with America’s Cup team Young America in 2000,” says Kirst. “Dirk eventually became the chief engineer for Alinghi and offered me a job in 2001. Dirk, Murray Jones and I have worked together since then.”
Kirst holds a degree in aerospace engineering from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida, one of the world’s oldest, largest and most prestigious universities specializing in aviation and aerospace. “Outside of sailing and design, I am involved with the birth and parenting of my son Tristan, which is and continues to be the most interesting project of my life,” says Kirst.
Career Highlights
2010: 33rd America’s Cup, Alinghi (rig designer), finalist
2009: International Rolex Regatta, St. Thomas, IC24 Brand New Secondhand (tactician), winner
2007: 32nd America’s Cup, Alinghi (rig designer), winner
2004: International Rolex Regatta, St. Thomas, IC24 Brand New Secondhand (tactician), winner
2003: 31st America’s Cup, Alinghi (design engineer), winner
Louis Vuitton Cup, Alinghi, winner
International Rolex Regatta, St. Thomas, IC24 Mean Green (tactician), winner