I think what we're seeing is the manufacturers becoming more involved in the internal machinations of the F18 association. Consequently there appears to be some manipulation of class rules for commercial protection.
By all means, let them be involved in the TC's but the final decision HAS to be made by the executive that MUST be acting in the best interests of it's members. What we're seeing at the moment is detrimental to the best interests of the members and unfortunately the class as a whole.
Paint vs Gelcoat isn't that big a deal performance wise however it is a very big deal manufacturing wise. (remember - total surface area of cats hulls is stuff all compared to a 100 foot maxi so spending big on a supposedly "faster" paint isn't going to provide a substantial benefit.)
Single cloth vs multi cloth sails - so long as the material being used is listed on the approved materials register then sail makers can make a cheaper sail with higher durability.
Why is it that the F18 association is only finding fault with Sail Innovation sails when all others are also technically illegal?
Why is it that the F18 association is only finding fault with Phantom hulls when many other hulls are also painted and have been for a long time??
Gav,
There is no "internal machinations of the F18 association".
Most of the WC members are F18 sailors elected by F18 sailors.
In November, 10 nations expressed themselves representing 74% of the worlwide members.
On the other hand Don Findlay (TC Chairman) write to open the last TC report (
http://tinyurl.com/7u5gmhy):
"Many of the requests for change have come from commercial interests and not from National Class Associations".
At least for paint performance there is a doubt, marketing double speech does not help. We should believe marketing speech to WC or marketing speech to customers ?
TC people did not find consensus. Despite the fact that (from last TC report):
"Very strong commercial lobbying has been received by those seeking to be allowed to use paints in hull manufacture"
Here I do admit in the doubt the World Council choose a conservative way for the clarification (no extra rules indeed).
Way which is just confirmed by ISAF: paint is not allowed on new boat (you can use paint for "routine maintenance" only).
In a few word one hand requests for change come from commercial, on the other hand WC is conservative and now confirmed by ISAF.
Here, again :), the key point is the fair competition between boat builders.
That's why rules can change with one year delay notice.
Could you indicate why "all others are also technically illegal?" ?
If this is concerning luff and leech line, TC report answer to you:
"RuleG.4.2 (e) states” leech line with cleat” and G.5.2 (d) states leech lines”. Facts found relating to rule.
Error in writing. Both G.4.2 and G.5.2 should read “leech and luff lines” TC decision. Agreed unanimously."
As you see there is many point on the TC table.
