If we are going to argue semantics.
Doesn't a Compass recieve a magnetic signal? So if a compass recieves a signal and is required no-one can legally race.

Magnetism is not a "signal." It is a closed dipole of electric current.

Radio signals are also electro magnetic. They both transmit data (which is what the rule says).

When I read the rule, I assumed it allowed GPS too. Really, a GPS is just a very accurate timing device. The satellites are just guiding beacons like stars. Furthermore the next rule says that a GPS may even be required without says that it is an exception. Which suggests that they are not against the rules.

This is one rule that I object to because it outlaws a device that can be used for safety and promotional purposes. The rule should at least allow a GPS, EPIRB, and VHF radio so that you can be rescued in the case of an emergency. GPS's that log information for future playback can be very useful for coaching and showing people what happened at an event that they didn't attend (think about what they did with the America's Cup).

I don't think it saves much either. The RRS already outlaw outside assistance. So, no one is getting an advantage. A GPS or VHF radio are far from cost prohibitive. Plus, for a lot of $$, it is possible to make an electronic device that measures speed and position with inertial guidance technology that does not receive or transmit anything.

I guess it will have to be settled in the room.

I agree with F18 VB, the GPS technology costs about the same as a digital compass anyway. I know the spirit of the rules is to keep costs down, but in this case i do believe the technology over the last 10 year years has reduced in cost to a point where it is now not an issue.

The other rule I have issue with is the ban on synthetic trapeze lines. It was fair enough when stainless wire was a fraction of the price of dyneema, but now in many areas the dyneema is actually cheaper. By the time you don't have to pay some one to swage up a set of lines it is now significantly cheaper to use synthetic.

How do we get these rules updated to reflect what is actually going on in the real world?

Easy, simply write to the class (in French) and request them to be reasonable.... Good luck!

With the rules as they are you cant sail with a €300 GPS but are allowed to have a RIB with paid coaches, etc.

If they really want to keep a level playing field it might be an idea to limit the amount spent on professional coaching as well.

A representative of the german class association told me the other day that the reason to ban signal receiving items is to avoid help from third parties. Imagine somebody on a hill or tower close to the regatta aera who can overlook the whole field, can watch out for wind changes, etc, ...

Isn't outside assistance already illegal under the RRS?

Does having two rules against it help make the protest easier?

Macca,

Bit confused here; why would anyone want to write to the international F18 class in French when the official langiage of the class us English?

Simon, If you ever have the misfortune that requires you to deal with the class you will understand..

Haa; Haa. I know where you are coming from Macca...... Some people just make life too difficult....!

Macca, whats going on with you? your just falling down all over the place!

I believe Olivier Bovyn is the International F-18 president and generally helpful individual.


Darren Flanagan May 3 at 11:38am
Hi Olivier,

Just a quick question, If I wanted to send a letter to the international F-18 association, would it need to be in English or French?

Best Regards

Darren.

Olivier Bovyn May 4 at 5:00pm
Hi Darren,

Being an International Association, English is preferable to post messages to IF18CA, but French can be accepted too.

Best regards,

Olivier

Wow Dazz, you are really on top of things!

I can clearly see that you have great experience in dealing with the International F18 class and your years or international experience have given you the knowledge to achieve great goals in dealing with the class.

Next time I have a request for the class I will enlist your help to sort the issues, you should put yourself on the market as a consultant, no... a lobbyist for all interested parties to retain in case they need your powerful negotiation skills...

Come on Andrew, Dry your eyes... here have a tissue on me.