Hi All,

I am a big supporter of one jib size for all. The Formula 18 is a boat that perform best with a bit of lard on the side. I think 150+ kg is an ideal all round competitive crew weight. I believe it is a distinct disadvantage to be less than 140kg.

When Glenn and I won the worlds in 2004 we were 155kg. Last year we were 149.5kg (we were eating as much as we could to get the weight back on – hmm Doughnuts). Mitch and Herbert sail at 160kg and they are certainly not slow in the light winds.

I often sail the AUS Hobie Tiger Nationals (2004 & 2005) and I sail with my girlfriend and we are 141kg. From the point of double trapeze you are at a disadvantage and we struggle upwind and really have to do something special to win a windy heat.

Using the small jib and spinnaker is a disadvantage as well. That jib is a waste of time putting up and is virtually impossible to steer from. There is absolutely no development done on the small rig. Hobie and Nacra have small rigs but I bet you can’t buy one from Capricorn or any of the other manufactures.

We need to do everything we can to encourage all women and youth teams. This rule is pushing them away. They are already at a disadvantage because they are light and should not be penalized further.

At the last 2 Worlds there has not been 1 small rig in the Gold Fleet. This cant be encouraging the young teams. I probably will never be affected and have to use the small rig but I dont think it is good for the class.

In saying all that I believe that the current weight equalizer between 140-150kgs works really well.

Good luck to all at the Alter Cup. Sounds like a great event.

Cheers
Bundy