Oops, sorry that was my personal interpretation of the rules. I assumed if I wanted to sail 2-up without the jib, I would be allowed to do so, and would be able to leave it and the sheets, blocks etc in the trailerbox, rather than stuff it in a pocket so it was "part of the boat". As long as I comply with all other class rules ie min. weight etc (after removing jib & blocks), who would object ? My understanding of the rules is that they would allow you to design & build a uni-rig boat if that`s what you want, as long as it fits the box-rule and complies with all other rules. If it`s slower than the sloop configuration 2-up, well then that`s what you chose. So my interpretation is that the rig is limited to mainsail, jib & spinnaker, but you don`t have to have all of these if you think you`ll be competitive without either, as long as you understand that you`ll be competing against others who do have all 3 sails, and are likely to be lapping you. Likewise I`d have assumed that if you chose to sail without spinnaker, you could leave all the paraphernalia associated with it on the beach, as long as you are min. weight without this kit, and are prepared to go downwind slowly, and attempt to make the cut-off time in each race. Not much fun either way.
What I was getting at, Mary, is that I believe it would be undesirable to have members who are not sailing their boats and, in fact, racing them, as full F16`s ie with a spinnaker, as this is the intent of the class :
From the "short description" on the class web-site :
"The "Formula 16" is a controlled multi-manufacturer development formula class. A class for 5 mtr. (16,4 ft.) long High Performance and asymmetric spinnaker equipped beach catamarans.
It regulates both 2-up (skipper and crew) and 1-up (solo) regatta sailing with an asymmetric spinnaker."
I think it`s fairly clear that the INTENT of the class is that it is there to regulate & promote "regatta sailing" (ie RACING) and that boats SHOULD be spinnaker-equipped.
Just as the rules stipulate that the maximum length is 5m, it allows you to enter a 14ft boat if you think that it will be competitive, of course "first in wins", so best be sure of your boat`s capabilities before making an idiot of yourself. Likewise if you choose to leave your mainsail on the beach and can win races, I`ll crew for you anyday !
The Mosquito class is a good case study : 4,9m long, mast is 7,3m (ie 1,2m shorter !), our spinnaker is 4,5sqm LESS than the F16 class allows. Technically speaking the boat is way under spec and complies with all F16 rules except min. weight, for which we have applied for dispensation (Australian boats only, SA boats are on min. weight).
On paper we are slower than full F16 but where we sail I`d rather be sailing on the edge on my Mozzie than cartwheeling all over the ocean on a Taipan or Blade. (Your rating means nothing when you`re upside-down)
As I said, my interpretation may be wrong, just have to wait for Wouter to get back to us on this one, Apology for leading you astray..
Steve
