Those who know me would know I do not like the methodology of the ISAF when it comes to their "International" status. As well I understand the GC is busy getting the legals done for the class.. Till that is done it may be premature..

However I would like to throw open a discussion for the GC on joining the IMC. http://www.multihullcouncil.org/

But its something we as a class could support..

Cheers

Who likes ISAF? Sometimes they are useful though..

I do not see any reason why the F16 class should not join the IMC but I see several reasons why we should join.

Hi Stewart -

Got your PM and saw your post on the General Forum. Figured I'd pop 'round your board to answer your query about the F16 classes' membership eligibility on the IMC.

The two-tiered membership plan was set up similar to how different constituencies are represented in the ISAF Member National Authorities (like US SAILING or RYA). In fact, the constitution was built on the US MHC's Bylaws. Somehow, some way, anyone and everyone has some sort of uplink and representation.

The voting membership is based on international class status, since by and large these are the biggest and most active racing fleets and are eligible to host worlds and to be selected as Olympic equipment. These classes have membership bases and budgets and can afford dues. Additionally, councils within MNA countries like the newly formed Aussie MHC, represent larger populations of sailors. In this manner, if you're a sailor Down Under, no matter what you sail, you have an uplink to the IMC through a full voting member, and quite possibly a choice of two.

Associate memberships were envisioned to allow smaller classes that either didn't have or want international status, smaller regional multihull organizations, and manufacturers a seat at the table. It also lends considerable heft to the mission of the IMC to be able to show significant grass-root participation when we sit down with ISAF. The targets of associate membership are less likely to have a large population from which to draw dues, so membership is free.

As an example of how sailors might be represented, let's look at hypothetical sailor Wally in Qld who sails a Hobie 17. He has the AUS Hobie Class and Hobie Australasia representing him at the Associate level, and the IHCA and the Aussie MHC voting for him. Somehow, some way, Wally knows there is someone he can talk to about his spot of concern.

For the F16 Class, I know you guys are still in the formative stage but only just - it seems to me you're on the bubble about deciding on international status with ISAF. No matter what you decide on the subject, you're already eligible for Associate membership on the IMC at no cost. Further, as a recognized class in several of the MNAs, you already have representation among the full members on any voting matters - I think I personally know all but one of the US F16 Exec. The US F16 Class joined US SAILING when the Blade was in the Alter Cup, so they are a full voting member of the US MHC, which means they have a direct link to a full voting member of the IMC.

Does that explanation muddy the water a bit?

heck fire, you kinda a member of the class yo'self with all the work you does and dat you won dat der AC on dem last year.


boring sunday am... <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" />

Now I am really confused. Let's take two examples. The Wave Class is a member of US Sailing. It paid its $100 dues to US Sailing. So does that mean the Wave Class will automatically be an affiliate member of the IMC, but not have to pay anything separately to the IMC but will be represented on IMC through the US Sailing Multihull Council?

And the F16 Class in the U.S. probably has NOT paid dues to be a member of US Sailing. So does that mean the F16 Class will NOT be an affiliate member of IMC through the Multihull Council?

Somebody has to pay dues to somebody somewhere along the line; right?

Hi Mary -

Yes on 1. The IWC has a voting seat on the US MHC, which has a voting seat on the IMC. You're covered. BUT, I'd still like to see the IWC vote to become an Associate Member of the IMC. Friends, sailors, countrymen - lend me your name.

Second - the US F16 Class is a paid member of US SAILING. They joined to make the Blade eligible for selection as the Alter Cup boat last year. Just like the IWC, they vote on the US MHC (if they want). Same price, by the way - $100/year.

So if your class is a member of US Sailing and therefore has a vote through the Multihull Council on the IMC, what would be the point of a class also joining the IMC separately if it is going to be just an affiliate member and still not have any direct voting rights?

Affiliate members participate directly in the discussion and the depth of membership lends the Council legitimacy when addressing ISAF. If the IMC's mission is one you support, I urge your class to consider affiliate membership to show that support. If I were still a Wave owner, I'd have already proposed it from within.

John,
How does a class or association go about becoming an affiliate member, since it doesn't cost anything? And can you do that even if you are not a member of any Managing National Authority (like US Sailing)?

I'm a slow learner. <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />

And I really think this kind of discussion should be on the Open Forum.