Kunena Site Syndication http://www.afloat.ie/ Fri, 10 Sep 2010 08:51:17 +0100 Kunena 1.5.11 http://www.afloat.ie/components/com_kunena/template/default_ex/images/english/emoticons/rss.gif http://www.afloat.ie/ Kunena Site Syndication http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2584#2586 I expect this class to explode again in the coming months - With alot of the top IRC boats sold and heading for foreign lands, the 1720 can be picked up easily/cheaply and coupled with only having to find 4 crew plus the skip, its easy and most of all afforable to campaign, did i forget to mention there a fecking dream to sail in 25kts........ Fri, 10 Sep 2010 08:51:12 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2585#2585 Thought you might like this view of Cork harbour taken yesterday afternoon - the changing in season is throwing up some lovely views over Roches Pt.. [URL=http://imgur.com SkQS.jpg][IMG]http://imgur.com SkQS.jpg[/IMG][/URL] www.cubeimages.com Fri, 10 Sep 2010 08:45:23 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2584#2584 Love this....I recall how many in the ranks of the Dragon and the FF classes were so busy writing off the 1720 a few years back they forgot to nail the coffin shut... The IRISH designed and built sports boat is alive and well and living in West cork. see here: http://www.afloat.ie/racing-update/item/13989-antix-takes-early-lead-in-19-boat-1720-nationals/ With more numbers racing this weekend than it appears the Dragons themselves can muster? http://www.afloat.ie ews/item/13977-dragons-prepare-for-south-coasts-in-kinsale/ Who's dead now? Fri, 10 Sep 2010 07:36:16 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=27&id=2583#2583 http://www.afloat.ie/afloat-rower-of-the-month/item/13953-memorable-month-for-university-eight/ plus a podcast with coach Mark Fangen-Hall here: http://www.afloat.ie/rowing/item/13984-fangen-hall-pays-tribute-to-manning-and-neale/ Thu, 09 Sep 2010 16:41:41 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=27&id=2582#2582 Welcome to the afloat.ie forum, providing Irish rowing with a more open environment for discussion than is available in the printed magazine or on the website or elsewhere. Our aim is not to censor or control opinions, but we will ensure that the forum rules and policies are respected. If asked, you will yield to the requests of the forum moderators or administrators. We reserve the right to delete posts and ban users at our discretion, without prior notice and without entering into any correspondence. 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Moderator may move incorrectly placed posts to their correct category, or delete them if they are found to be inappropriate. By participating in afloat.ie, you have agreed to follow the rules and policies. If rules are broken, we won't hesitate to delete posts and ban users. This is also the case for mischievous or disruptive posts. For further assistance or clarification, please contact us at info@afloat.ie Thu, 09 Sep 2010 16:08:09 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=21&id=2552&limit=6&limitstart=18#2581 Actually, the change to right hand drive may have had more to do with the use of large horse-drawn wagons... being steered by a man mounted on on of the rear pair of horses. It would have been easier to hold on with the left hand and handle the whip with the right. Waggons coming in the opposing direction would pass driver to driver i.e. on the right. In Britain - they preferred to build railways! Gordon Wed, 08 Sep 2010 15:56:57 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=21&id=2552&limit=6&limitstart=18#2580 Yeh well that Napoleon was a contrary bugger all right. Or they had the flint lock pistol by the time sense prevailed and it's quicker to draw and fire on some one to your left. Take your pick on that one. Wed, 08 Sep 2010 14:57:39 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=21&id=2552&limit=6&limitstart=12#2579 Not bluffing - when ships did not have a rudder but were steered by a steering oar this was on the right hand side facing forward- the "steerboard" side, which was easier for right handers . Sailing on starboard tack, steering was more difficult, because the oar was less immerged, and helmsman had an obscured view of boats arriving on port. Very valid points in the 13th Century! I believe the chances of seeing any change are minimal. A bit like allowing footballers (exceptt he French) to use their hands to play the ball. The QWERTY keyboard was developed to avoid jamming by seperating commonly used letters. Of all the possible combinations it is one of the least efficient when typing in English - which is why typing speed records are held by typists trained to use the AZERTY keyboard. However,changing all the keyboards, and retraining everyone who has learnt to type on a QWERTY keyboard is just too much bother. Of course - many countries did change the side of the road they drove on, maybe to symbolise a break with the old regime of sword carrying knights barging and hacking their way down the road. The phenomenum of continuing to use conventions that have no longer any real justification is called path dependency by economists. The cost, financial and social, of change outweighs any benefits. Gordon Wed, 08 Sep 2010 14:34:16 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=21&id=2552&limit=6&limitstart=12#2578 Do you mean 'its always been like that', which is no argument, or there is actually a physical reason why it's more appropriate for port to give way to starboard? If it's the latter I've no idea what it is, other than easy. Driving on the left is so that, for the majority, the sword arm is towards the oncoming unknown foe. The QWERTY keyboard is there to keep the most common letters apart so that they don't jam in a leaver arm type writer. You're bluffing Gordon, and confusing the derivation of the word with the invention of the rule. Wed, 08 Sep 2010 13:56:24 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=21&id=2552&limit=6&limitstart=12#2577 Starboard has priority over port fo valid historical reasons, going back to the days before rudders had been invented. It is now a convention in both the racing rules and in the COLL REGS. It would be as complicated to change as other conventions such as driving on the left hand side - or the use of the specifically designed to be slow QWERTY keyboard... Gordon PS I would agree with Josh - one major reason for rules not being observed is sailors are not enforcng them. Judges cannot penalise a boat for breaking a rule if there is no protest. Wed, 08 Sep 2010 13:38:55 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2575#2576 The entry list on the HYC web site for the SB3s has all the information you require Skip, as does practically every press release and report from the event. If you look at the SB3s the names of the crew are recorded every where else other than the one place you've highlighted. The system involved there is some what antiquated. The notion that a (match racing) team with team members from all over the country did not represent a club unless the club in question had paid for them to attend the event seems to be a challenging concept as well. It all depends on the priority of the class I guess. Would this 'good stuff' happen to be something along the lines of (direct quotes from competitors)... "The Etchells fleet has never been looked after before -- not only on the water but, particularly, off the water -- better than they have been here" With respect to the SB3 Nats: "Faultless execution in every way, not just in race mangement, value for money, great hospitality and super club facilities but also great attention to detail in often-neglected areas like communications, PR and on the water jury. No wonder Howth gets so many major events" That last one was from someone who did a particularly impressive job of running the SB3 Easterns in conjunction with the RsG in the spring so it was nice to hear. Tue, 07 Sep 2010 20:11:55 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2575#2575 Heard a lot of good stuff recently about Howth YC hosting top one design events. I also hear a lot of it is well deserved. I hoppe then they won't mind me making a helpful suggestion to make 90% of the competing sailors more involved.....could they please record their names on the score sheets. http://www.afloat.ie/images/fbfiles/images/etchells.png http://www.afloat.ie/images/fbfiles/images/sB3.jpg Tue, 07 Sep 2010 19:43:52 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2542&limit=6&limitstart=6#2574 Funding for grass roots sport is self justifying. Does it compete with funding for elite sport? I'm not so sure. The ISA doesn't go looking for funding for sailing and then decide where to allocate it. It goes looking for funding for individual elements from different bodies etc. Done right the Olympics are an inspiration to people to give sailing and all sport a go, and an inspiration to individuals with talent to make the most of what they have. Developing an international platform form for sailing that is recognized as the defacto world championships is the biggest challenge sailing faces. The undoubted stars of Irish sailing this year have been Peter O'Leary and Analise Murray. Things like the AC or stuff as grotesque as the maxi world cup, utter bling, detract from that. Tue, 07 Sep 2010 18:07:16 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2542&limit=6&limitstart=6#2573 have to agree to medalling and even then the Games all notch up, single figures probably realistic target, in any event if the IOC have their way there wont be sailing in the games in due course and would that affect Ireland anyway? Better if the money was spent at grassroots..? Tue, 07 Sep 2010 17:56:57 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=21&id=2552&limit=6&limitstart=12#2572 Does a bear fart in the woods if no one can hear the badger complaining about the smell? Tue, 07 Sep 2010 17:55:11 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2542&limit=6&limitstart=6#2571 Purely medaling is a some what over ambitious target wouldn't you say? Are there many medalists these days that achieve that with in one Olympic cycle? Do we have a single class where a medal is a reasonable expectation? May be the Star seems closest with 1 recent world class result where one of the sailors didn't even have Irish or English as a first language. Mind you the level of funding available will make no difference to the teams involved in the Star in terms of their ability to compete to medal standard. I could be well wrong, but the main funding at the moment seems to be going to the 49er squad and Laser Radial. Great for the 49er but if you have limited resources where better to put it all than a womens event with supplied equipment that's strict one design with to a large extent cost control. Tue, 07 Sep 2010 17:47:09 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2542&limit=6&limitstart=6#2570 I think these rules must ony kick in when country is qualified under ISAF qualifiaction rules. Anoter question though is is it worth it, are we wasting money on some of the classes who may qualify the country but won't have a hope in hell of medalling? Tue, 07 Sep 2010 17:10:14 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=21&id=2552&limit=6&limitstart=12#2569 I reckon they cant be bothered with the hassle of lodging protests and they go away, as you say the rule is clear and the problem is the sailors taking advantage of others not protesting (or not knowing the rules , sure don't you see that everyday on the road never mind the water), its a very high risk strategy approaching from the port as I said in my first post and I dont care what you say about opaqueness AD, was that olympic sailor also the guy who crossed a starboard boat fouling him and getting dsq'd in the first race of Athens Olympics.... cause its a high risk strategy as well....you just have to have the balls to go through with the protest. Tue, 07 Sep 2010 17:07:35 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=21&id=2552&limit=6&limitstart=12#2568 AD, why is being on starboard inherently more just than being on port? There's nothing in the nature of sailing that justifies it. It's purely an artificial rule layered over the natural order of boats sailing against each other. So in my mind any argument that suggests that a boat deserves protection automatically because it is on starboard is rubbish. Surely, as with windward leeward and clear astern, in the natural order of things, the boat having sailed faster up to this point deserves to be protected from the boat that has not. Going to windward that's simply a case of who's bow is further upwind and any protest would be easily resolved based on where the contact was. Downwind things are already stated that way. At mark roundings inside has rights also mirrors the physical reality. Min you it is what it is. To understand why a port approach may be fairer you need to think back at least 2 or 3 steps from the actual windward mark and consider how boats establish them selves in that position in the first place. A set of rules where the boats get to use both sides of the course to approach the mark and where they are less able to form an unthinking wall of boats (those that sit in line on the starboard layline) that physically deny (with the protection of an artificial rule) a boat that has sailed better than them up the beet is fairer. Whether it is safer is another question. Sufficiently safe, I think so. No less safe than the current situation, I think so again. I am 100% convinced that every one would be too terified to find out. Tue, 07 Sep 2010 16:43:40 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=21&id=2552&limit=6&limitstart=6#2567 I still do not understand Ric's post about port boats and that a port boat procession is fairer than a starboard one!! Everyone has to roughly spend the same amount of time on each tack so what's the problem? I think Gordan's contributions have amplified the essential point I am making both about the complexity and lack of clarity of the rules (which in fairness were hugely improved during the last major redraft but did not go anything like far enough). I think we are all at risk of missing the point. It may well be the case that the current rules deal fairly with all the issues which arise when approaching and rounding the weather mark but the reality is that they are opaque, complex and most people do not understand them adequately. This is not necessarily the fault of the competitors as my fundamental point is that in their efforts to accommodate every possible eventuality, the rules have become difficult to comprehend. In my view this is one of the main reasons why protests are so infrequent. Sure arbitration procedures have helped this somewhat but essentially the protest system is broken because many have lost faith in it because it is now seen to dispense law rather than justice. This view has been accentuated for me personally over the years having witnessed some incomprehensible adjudication from some eminent juries. Generally I am reasonably comfortable with participating in any capacity at protest hearings but I can understand the widespread reluctance to get involved. I believe the principal desired effect the rules are trying to achieve at windward mark roundings is as follows; A port tack boat should be allowed to join the group of starboard boats approaching the weather mark provided it tacks into a position which does require any starboard tack boat to take avoiding action before the port tack boat has completed its tack onto starboard. If the tack is executed within the zone the rights to luff of the newly tacked boat are severely curtailed. As pointed out by both Gordan and myself cogniscence of endless rules, subsections to different rules and definitions has to be considered to obtain this effect. My suggested text clears all this up in a 2 line sentence!!! Boats on port tack may not tack within the zone unless, on completion of the tack, they are able to remain clear ahead of any boats approaching the mark on Starboard until they have rounded the mark. What is not clear from the rules at the moment is how to deal with the situation where a boat on port completes its tack (inside or outside the Zone) on to starboard directly in front of a starboard boat at full speed and often with restricted space to maneuver. I have my own ideas on this situation but it would be interesting to hear Gordan's. As an aside, an eminent UK based Olympic sailor confirmed to me that their coaches encourage them to try the late approach on port as the rules have sufficient opaqueness to protect them if their boathandling is flawless. Most of us are not at this standard!!! Tue, 07 Sep 2010 16:19:34 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=21&id=2552&limit=6&limitstart=6#2563 yep no change to 1 to 5 as written and keep the same numbers A port procession is fairer as it gives boats some right to establish their position in the line before they reach the zone. This would also encourage people to use both sides of the course as a starboard approach 3 bl over the lay line would be a viable second option (at present you have to go a hell of a lot further than that if you are further back). There's a huge amount of extra fluff in the rule around when one applies and another does that could just be removed through the mechanic above. Leaving the bits people really need to get a grip on. ... red mist cleared and can't be bothered I would say. Coupled with beating the boat anyway and the risk of going into a hearing of any kind. Tue, 07 Sep 2010 10:29:18 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=21&id=2552&limit=6&limitstart=6#2562 Ric, Not sure I understand your post, can you explain please - rules 1 to 5 Safety - Anti Doping? Another point - why would a procession of boats arriving on port be fairer? As for the mystery of the disappearing protests... maybe in the cold light of the sail home and the prospect of some cold beer and a warm shower, a reappraisal of the situation leads competitors to conclude that no rule was infringed. Or, people have not enough confidence in the protest committees, or they just can't be bothered. In an event in Germany, arbitration took place at the top of the slipway - no written protest, just a judge and the 2 competitors. If a penalty was given, end of story, time taken - about 3 minutes! Might be worth a try! Gordon Tue, 07 Sep 2010 10:23:30 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=21&id=2552&limit=6&limitstart=6#2561 On blowing whistles - we whistle when we clearly identify an infringement, and most boats took turns. One suggestion I would like to try out is to hail the boats over VHF, as in the conditoins we had this weekend I am not convinced that the all whistles were audible. However, use of VHF may be seen as a game-change and a step too far. I have no intention of re-writing rule 18, indeed I believe that it is a well-written rule (with one or two minor caveats)that when applied by those competitors who understand it permits well regulated mark roundings. However, if workable suggestions do emerge it would be a good idea to put them forward. In my experience there is a problem in that competitors who know something of the rules do not understand what "keep clear" and "give mark room" mean, nor do they fully appreciate the constraints imposed by rules 15 acquiring right of way and 16 changing course. Gordon Tue, 07 Sep 2010 10:14:39 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=21&id=2552&limit=6&limitstart=6#2560 The following rules are listed in order of priority. When more than 1 rule applies the rule with the lowest number will take precidence. Rule 1 to 5 as now Rule 6 – rule 14 as currently writen Rule 7 – rule 15 as writen now Rule 8 - rule 16 as writen now Rule 9 – rule 13 as writen now Rule 10 – rule 20 as writen now Rule 11 Rule 11 applies between boats when they are required to leave a mark on the same side and at least one of them is in the zone. From the point that two boats become overlapped when at least one of them is in the zone until they have left the mark, the outside boat shall there after give the inside boat mark-room. Rule 12 – rule 19 as written now Rule 13 – rule 10 as written now Rule 14 – rule 11 as written now Rule 15 – rule 12 as written now ... That's not the same as simply deleting 18.3. The effect on down wind marks would be exactly as it is now. The game at the windward mark would be totally changed, probably resulting in a port tack procession into the mark (which would be fairer). ... The question to Gordon is a fair one. How ever the jury was asked to act with some discretion while the fleet gets used to them being there. Another question might be, given the number of incidents how come so few protests where followed through on by the competitors. Tue, 07 Sep 2010 09:57:28 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=21&id=2552&limit=6&limitstart=6#2559 Ok Gordon then you write it but remember you have to deal with gybe marks, leeward marks, gates, boats on different gybes/tacks, obstructions, boats of different lenghts and speeds converging and I bet you can't make it easier.....as I say it just needs more policing. How many whistles did you blow? and who took turns as a result and those you blew were there protests? Tue, 07 Sep 2010 09:22:46 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=21&id=2552#2558 Bullied is the wrong attitude. Having failed to get up the beat in the first three we where left about 8-9 boat lengths below the mark with a substantial number of boats coming in on port. We could of asserted our starboard rights. How ever the likelihood that all 10 boats would of realized we where there and been able to co-ordinate a tack in order to avoid us, and thus forcing them the wrong side of the mark, was small so we took the percentage option based on risk and gave it another 4 boat lengths. In the end we got back up to 6th anyway, which admittedly put pressure on the next start that lead to other problems (pushed the busy end of the line only to get taken out by boats on port and left last off the line). That's what I mean by overplaying starboards rights. You are basically offering them the opportunity to drive right over any boat in front that has come in on port with impunity. As we saw at the weekend the fact that they are coming in on port may not have been their tactical option, just the way it worked out in terms of wind shifts and keeping clear air. Is there anything more soul destroying than sailing 10 boat lengths beyond the layline because you where slow off the start and have to leave space for the rest of the fleet to come in? You only deem it to be unfair because of an artificial rule about right of way. What's fair about a boat that is ahead having to give way (duck to find a slot in the line) to 7-8 boats that where slower out of the trap and up the beet than they where just because the other boats banged the layline (often badly) You could argue that the problem, out side the top 10 anyway, is really down tot he wall of boats on the starboard layline rather than the fleet getting to use both sides of the course. There are ways of rewriting the rules with out port/starboard. Personally if it wasn't for the degree of reeducation required I think it way be worth it. You can rewrite the rules so that there is a clear hierarchy and people know which rule has priority and must be followed. Since that simplifies things for most people that would be worth doing too I reckon. If only it didn't 'change the game'. Tue, 07 Sep 2010 05:11:35 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=21&id=2552#2557 I would not agree that rule 18 is a mess. It is true to say that it is much understood. In particular, it is important to realise that at marks ALL of the section A of part 2 rules continue to apply, and that all of the section B rules General Limitations continue to apply until boats are at the mark. However, before entering into a debate about this (I hope to have time to write in more detail soon) I would invite everyone to read carefully the definition of "keep clear" in the RRS, and then to read ISAF case 50 which is very relevant to any situation in which one boat is on part and another on starboard. Gordon - the one blowing whistles at the windward mark over the weekend! Mon, 06 Sep 2010 21:53:32 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=21&id=2552#2556 'Boats on port tack may not tack within the zone unless, on completion of the tack, they are able to remain clear ahead of any boats approaching the mark on Starboard until they have rounded the mark,' that is what the rules say, a port tack boat coming into a stacked up starboard layline is running a high risk strategy, the problem is that there are not enough protests and the judges aren't red flagging them. There is only one safe approach and that is for the port tack boat to complete its tack before the starboard boat has to alter helm, if he is in the zone the only safe port tack approach is to be able to cross the starboard boats completely (tack without interfering, if you tack inside you are or should be protested if a starboard boat has to alter which invariable it does. Its all very simple and a good explanation from the main author is here, its just that people dont protest enough. http://www.yachting.org.au/site/yachting/ayf/downloads/Technical/RaceManagement/Comparison%20of%20Old%20and%20New%20Section%20C%20Rules.pdf Mon, 06 Sep 2010 20:25:28 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=21&id=2552#2555 I am not sur that I understand your point. In fact I think you accentuate the argument for my suggestion. The fact that you felt obliged to give ground to Port tack boats reaching in at the mark amplifies the grounds for my position on the debate. You ultimately felt bullied by the boats comming in on port and decided to avoid trouble and take the line of least resistence and it cost you at least 10 places! That seems unfair to me. Mon, 06 Sep 2010 20:09:14 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=14&id=2554#2554 Hi to ye all, Can anyone help with advice on a new engine . I see a lot of Parsun engines on the market at very good prices. If anyone has purchased one what are they like? and can the parts be easly located in Ireland?. regards Martin Mon, 06 Sep 2010 16:35:50 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=21&id=2552#2553 I think most people agree rule 18 is a complete mess. But it doesn't say exactly what you suggest. Boats on oposit tacks at a windward mark is only a small proportion of what the rule deals with too. What you are proposing will do a couple of things. Firstly it just shifts the problem to the edge of the zone (which is where any one with any sence comes in on port now), and secondly it will make racing a complete procession. The start and first 5 minutes are already heavily loaded. With what you propose onlythe first 3 boats will get a good rounding. All the rest will be forced over the layline and into a procession. There's then the issue of what the starboard boat will do. Just by way of example. In the first race on Sat this weekend, the one with the huge left shift, if we had nailed the stanboard layline and stuck to our rights about 1/3 of the fleet that was reaching into the mark on port would of been screwed. Only you try tacking 10 boats reaching in on port. A major smash would of occured. Sure we would of rounded in about 4th or 5th and our regatta would of still been alive but we didn't, we went 5 or 6 boat lengths beyond the lay and rounded about 14th as a result. You give as much protection to starboard as you suggest and they may of considered that a risk worth taking. Mon, 06 Sep 2010 15:25:06 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=21&id=2552#2552 Unbelievably there are at least 9 separate Rules (10,11,12, 13,14,15,16,17 & 18), together with their sub sections (to many to count!!) which have to be considered when a Port tack boat approaches a windward mark which has to be rounded to port. Though the Rules appear to favour the right of way boat on Starboard and discourage Port tack boats from executing close quarter action near the windward mark, in practice the Rules offer considerable defence to the Port tack boat if the right of way boat does not set itself up to anticipate what the Port tack boat may do. First of all let us consider some overriding issues which will impact on the situation; • Rule 10 obliges the give way boat on Port to keep clear of a boat on Starboard and this basic rule is not overridden at the windward mark by any of the provisions of rule 18 which deals with mark room in the “Zone” (within 3 boats of the mark). • Rule 14 requires boats to avoid contact if reasonably possible. An interesting part of this rule states that the right of way boat “need not act to avoid contact until it is clear the other boat is not keeping clear etc”. In other words, if it become clear to the right of way boat that the port tack boat is going to be in a position that a collision is inevitable, either before or after the port boat has executed any manouver, including a tack, and has to anticipate this by changing course before the port tack boat has completed its tack, the Port tack boat has broken the rules. • The rules constrain the right of way boat from executing certain options, notably with regard to changing course and giving other boats the opportunity to keep clear while doing so, though 18.3(b) and 18.5 have an exception to this. So how can the starboard boat legally ensure that it is not bullied by port tack boat while approaching the windward mark? • The first defence is to discourage the port tack boat from tacking in front of you by bearing off in sufficient time and giving him the opportunity to keep clear. You cannot alter course to prevent him keeping clear (16.1) while he is tacking, so it needs to be done before he starts his tack and gives him an adequate opportunity to keep clear. • If a port tack boat is tacking in a position which requires you to anticipate avoiding a collision by changing course, he has broken rule 13 which requires a boat tacking to keep clear. The starboard boat should immediately protest having made a demonstrable alteration of course before the tack was completed. • If a Port boat completes its tack without forcing the Starboard boat to take any collision avoiding alterations of course, the rights and obligations of the Starboard boat are different whether the tack was undertaken inside or outside the Zone. Outside the Zone The Port tack boat is now on starboard and has become the right of way boat. The other boat did not have to anticipate completion of the tack and the newly tacked boat has to give room to allow the other boat to keep clear. The newly tacked boat can luff provided room is given to allow the other boat to keep clear, unless she needs to shoot head to wind to round the mark when there is no requirement to give the weather boat room to keep clear. Inside the Zone The rules work slightly differently if the tack is executed inside the Zone. If the tack is completed in front of or to leeward of a Starboard boat fetching the mark and she has to luff above close hauled to avoid the recently tacked boat then it is a penalty. If the original Starboard boat decides to bear off and gets an overlap to leeward of the recently tacked boat, this boat must keep clear and give mark room. The tactic for the original Starboard boat should be to luff above close hauled or bear off and establish an overlap to leeward and luff back up to your proper course which may included shooting the mark. Basically if the starboard boat is smart the recently tacked boat can only get away with what it did if it ensures it stays clear ahead until it has rounded the mark. Basically late approaches to the windward mark by boats on port should only work legally if the boats on starboard are well above the layline or the Port tack boat can execute a tack and remain clear ahead of existing Starboard boats until she has rounded the windward mark. In my view the rules are far too complicated and inadequately protect the Starboard boats approaching the windward mark on the layline. This is compounded by the fact that Rule 18.2 (e) is switched off at the windward mark. How can it be fair for a port tack boat to bully its way into a stacked line of Starboard boats which cannot physically give room because of congestion and speed. A much simpler approach would be to adopt a rule as follows; Boats on port tack may not tack within the zone unless, on completion of the tack, they are able to remain clear ahead of any boats approaching the mark on Starboard until they have rounded the mark. I suspect Real Rules Buffs will say that is exactly what the rules effectively state at the moment but if that is the case, it is not sufficiently clear to most of us. What's your view Gordan? Mon, 06 Sep 2010 15:02:51 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=6&id=2551#2551 Powerboat Racing returns to the river Barrow after 12 years. This weekend September 12th East Coast Powerboat Racing Club with help from New Ross Boat Club brings the ISA Powerboat Racing Championship to the Quay in New Ross. All four classes will race. F2, F4, T850 and P750 As this is the last championship race of the season we expect to see a full turn out of boats. All drivers are fighting for the last points to determine the final placing In the 2010 National championship. There should be some very exciting racing so come along and see who takes home the gold in each class. Futher details from East Coast Powerboat Racing Club or on ISA Website at www.sailing.ie/motorboat http://www.afloat.ie/images/fbfiles/images/Eastcoastlogo1.png Mon, 06 Sep 2010 11:28:26 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=6&id=2419#2550 Competition couldn’t have been tighter in Mayo. On Saturday last Mayo Sailing Club Hosted the North West Regional Final of the ISA Yachtsman euromarine Rib Challenge 2010. Conditions were good and the sun came out to shine on a competition that saw the top of the leader board change on a regular basis. In the Senior Competition any of the top six teams could have taken the top spot as the final test approached. The Teams assembled in the Club house to hear the final scores, those present didn’t release that the competition was only beginning. The top 3 teams were divided by only ½ point. Bellacrogher Bay Boat Club on 74 with Clifden 2 & Mayo Sailing Club on 74.5. With Bellacrogher taking third and 1st to qualify for the National Final. Cliften and Mayo had to have a score count back to decide the winner. But on the count back both teams were equal. Out came the nautical questions and it was a case of sudden death. After the first 10 question both teams were tied then on the eleventh Mayo made a mistake and the Regional Win went to Clifden 2. Senior Results. 1st Cliften Sailing Club 2 2nd Mayo Sailing Club 3rd Bellacrogher Bay Boat Club. The junior competition did not go to a count back but it was as close. The youngest Team to enter this year came from Bellacrogher Bay Boat Club and up to the final test seemed as if they would win. At the top scores were so tight that one mistake could lose you the top spot. Bellacrogher were to find this out but came in a well deserved third. Ahead was the Clifden Junior Team and winner’s were the Mayo Juniors. Junior Results 1st Mayo Juniors 2nd Clifden Juniors 3rd Bellacrogher Juniors. Thanks to all the helped out especially Noel Conlon of Seatec and Mayo Sailing Club for making all feel so welcome. Trish for looking after all our catering needs. Many thanks to all the teams that took part and it was great to hear from for those that did not qualify that they had a great time and looked forward to next Year. Sun, 05 Sep 2010 18:35:28 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2549#2549 http://www.afloat.ie/island-nation/item/13939-why-boating-and-music-go-hand-in-hand/ He's right you know sailing and songs they do go hand in hand. Music and boating are both 'vessels of freedom' as kenny Chesney might sing! Here's my favourite Irish one, Jimmy Crowley brings me back to the glory days of Asgard.... could Afloat get a list of other boating songs started here? [video type=youtube]iu2mifhnij8[/video] Sat, 04 Sep 2010 12:15:34 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2542&limit=6&limitstart=6#2548 Interesting that there doesn't seem to be a requirement to attend 2011 ISAF worlds and take part in country qualification! Fri, 03 Sep 2010 12:11:52 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2542#2547 Forgot about the 470 all right She Star can be the subject of a round or two at the bar Fri, 03 Sep 2010 09:48:02 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2542#2546 Ric - I am sure the 470 and Star crews would disagree! Gordon Fri, 03 Sep 2010 08:18:45 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2542#2545 All the Olympic classes bar the 49er and womens match racing are tiller waggler classes though Thu, 02 Sep 2010 22:04:41 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2542#2544 Seems very biased in favour of the tiller wagglers. Gordon Thu, 02 Sep 2010 21:36:51 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2542#2543 That's a typo isn't it? They must be talking about 2016. ... Hard to say anything about it until you see the trail events selected, how well they align with the events required to qualify the country for an event at the games and how soon selection will be completed before the games (hopefully around 4 months before the action) Thu, 02 Sep 2010 21:12:19 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2542#2542 Anyone any thoughts on this? B) Irish Sailing Association - 2012 Olympic Games Nomination Procedures 1. Preamble 1.1 The Olympic Council of Ireland (“OCI”) is responsible for selecting the Irish team to compete at the Olympic Games in 2012 (“the Games”). The OCI will make its selection based on nominations from national sports authorities. In the case of sailing, the national authority is the Irish Sailing Association (“ISA”). 1.2 The Board of the ISA (“the Board”) has appointed a sub committee, the Olympic Steering Group (“OSG”), to make recommendations to the Board as to those Candidates who should be nominated by the ISA to the OCI. 1.3 This document sets out the procedures that will be used by the OSG to recommend Candidates to the Board for nomination to the OCI for selection of the Irish sailing team for the Games. 2. Definitions “Candidate” shall mean, in the case of a single handed boat, the helm or, in the case of a double or triple handed boat, each of the helm and crew, who are seeking nomination for a place on the Irish team for the Games. “Event” shall mean a sailing event to be held at the Games. “Reserve Regatta” shall mean the ISAF World Cup regatta to be held at Medemblik, Holland in 2012. “Recommendation” shall mean the recommendation by the OSG to the Board of the Candidate in each Event as to who should be nominated by the ISA to the OCI “Trial Regatta” shall mean each of the three separate regattas for each Event, as more specifically described in section 5 below, from which the OSG shall make its Recommendation to the Board in accordance with these procedures. The Reserve Regatta shall be a Trial Regatta in the circumstances set out at section 5.3 below. “Trials Series” shall mean, collectively, the Trial Regattas. 3. Procedures 3.1 The Recommendations made by the OSG shall be based solely on the results of the Trials Series as described in section 5 below. 3.2 The Board shall not be obliged to accept the OSG’s Recommendation and shall not be obliged to nominate any Candidate to the OCI. 4. Eligibility and Notification 4.1 Each Candidate must be eligible to compete for Ireland. 4.2 Each Candidate shall notify the Performance Director of the ISA, in writing, of their intention to participate in the Trials Series before competing. 4.3 Such notification shall constitute an acknowledgment by each Candidate that they accept the procedures set forth in this document. 4.4 Substitution of helms will not be permitted in any circumstances. Substitution of crews shall only occur in the following circumstances: (i) the approval of the OSG shall be obtained for any crew substitution (which approval shall, where possible, be secured in advance of the substitution taking place). (ii) the substitution may only occur where the crew member being substituted is incapable, by reason of illness or injury, of competing in a Trial Regatta. Such illness or injury shall be certified by the OCI medical officer on behalf of the crew member concerned as rendering the crew member incapable of competing in that Trial Regatta. If the OCI medical officer is unavailable, such illness or injury shall be certified by a registered medial practitioner. The OSG shall be entitled to procure the opinion of it’s own nominated registered medical practitioner as to the capability of the crew member concerned of competing in the Trial Regatta and, in the event of a difference of opinion as between the two medical practitioners, the opinion of the medical practitioner retained by the OSG shall prevail. (iii) any crew substitution shall, subject to 4.4(ii) above, be permanent. For the avoidance of doubt, a crew who is substituted by reason of ill health or injury shall not be entitled, as of right, to regain his place upon regaining good health. 4.5 Should a helm and crew cease their joint participation in the Trials Series, points already accrued in the Trials Series shall accrue to the helm only. 5. Trials Series 5.1 The Trials Series for each Event shall comprise a maximum of three Trial Regattas. The Trial Regattas shall be posted on the ISA website as soon as practicable after the publication of the 2011 and 2012 sailing calendars. The Trial Regattas will be selected from the European Championships and/or World Cup Regattas in each Event for 2011 and 2012. 5.2 Entry for Trial Regattas shall be the responsibility of each Candidate. 5.3 In the event that one or more of the Trial Regattas for any Event does not take place, or that no results are declared from a Trial Regatta by its organizers, then the Reserve Regatta shall form part of the Trials Series for that Event. If the Reserve Regatta does not take place or if no results are declared from it by its organizers then the OSG’s Recommendation shall be based on the scores of the Trial Regattas actually held. 6. Scoring 6.1 Points shall be awarded to the Candidate helm in each Trial Regatta exactly corresponding to that Candidate’s final overall placing in that Trial Regatta as shown on the official final results sheet published by the regatta organizers. For example, an overall first place shall score one point, a second place shall score two points and so on. 6.2 In the event that a Candidate does not compete in a Trial Regatta, then that Candidate shall score points for that Trial Regatta equal to the overall placing given to the last entry on the official final results sheet published by the regatta organizers plus one point. 6.3 Scores for the Trials Series for each Event shall include the points from each Trial Regatta. 6.4 If there is a tied score between two or more Candidates in any Trials Series, each Candidate’s Trial Regatta scores shall be listed in order of best (lowest) to worst (highest) and at the first point where there is a difference the tie shall be broken in favour of the Candidate with the best score. If a tie still remains between two or more Candidates, the Candidate with the best final overall placing in the last Trial Regatta shall be recommended. 6.5 Subject to 6.4 above, the Candidate with the lowest number of points at the conclusion of the Trials Series shall be recommended by the OSG to the Board. 7. Amendments and Appeals 7.1 No amendment to these procedures shall be made in respect of any Event without the prior written consent of each Candidate for that Event 7.2 Any appeal in relation to these procedures, or a recommendation under these procedures, shall be to the ISA Tribunal. Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:45:08 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=42#2541 Actually RICM I am very interested but that doesn't mean everybody else is as well. I have read all the posts on the SB3 site. Tue, 31 Aug 2010 21:09:56 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=36#2540 I think the suggestion had already been mooted in a previous post way back. Never mind, it can be like the post on another well known site about "Couple cruise for 1000 days". Anyway if nothing else it lightened things for a bit. That is the end of it now. Have a great time at the Nats. everybody and sail safely. Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:26:49 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=36#2539 I think the level of traffic on this thread speaks for itself but if you prefer I am sure we can transfer the debate to the SB3 site. However I think a lot of people are interested to see how this type of discussion can encourage useful debate for sailing in general. Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:19:34 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=36#2538 To be fair Claire, the usual rule is if you aren't interested don't read it. Leave the post to those that are. Tillerman, there are no techneques that are legal to keep your shoulders outboard. What I'm talking about is ensuring that all 3 of you are not wasting what you have available in terms of what is allowed. No different to callign for 100% focus on boat speed in certain circumstances or making sure your sails are trimmed right 100% of the time. The guidance coming from the SB3 technical committee is based on discussion around the weight of your legs being the only thing that enables you to put you torso beyond the vertical. Some bright spark has suggested that this makes your legs a hiking aid. It's an interesting and possably valid interpretation but to implement it 2 days before a National Championships and enforce it rigerously with on the water penalties wouldn't be the right thing to do in my view. But for the most trivial all rule changes should be made at teh begining of the year or immediatly after the nationals. It's one of the great things they do withthe RSS, comapired to lets say soccer where a raft of new dirrectives come in in the weeks before the World Cup causing caos. We go for full disclosure of everything we do to anyone who asks anyway. Just ask the 15 boats that where at our coachign session at the National the other week. Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:03:01 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=36#2537 Surely they can read it on the SB3 Forum as well as catching up on the extensive posts there. I have nothing against SB3s, indeed they are a great class and look fantastic grouped together especially when they are a blaze of yellow with the spinnakers. (speaking photographically here) I am sure they are very exciting to sail but I merely expressed an opinion. Too much of one thing is good for nothing! Tue, 31 Aug 2010 10:57:07 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=36#2536 On the contrary, I think that sailors will find some of these replies interesting, especially if you think the techniques used to keep shoulders outboard etc...never knew that.... Tue, 31 Aug 2010 10:27:44 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=6&id=2419#2535 Saturday next the 4th September will see Mayo sailing Club host the North West regional Finals of the ISA Yachtsman euromarine Rib Challenge 2010.Teams will gather in Rossmoney from 10.00and competition gets under way at 10.30. With only 3 qualifing places in the final available to each regional final competition will be stiff. Entries are still open, if you haven't entered your ISA club or Training centre. Give rachael a call at 01 2800239 http://www.afloat.ie/images/fbfiles/images/mayo.jpg Tue, 31 Aug 2010 10:16:40 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=36#2534 At this stage, and as you already have an SB3 forum, would it be a good idea to take this continuing saga over there as there are some people who might just be getting a little tired? Tue, 31 Aug 2010 09:55:51 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=30#2533 There are plenty. In fact there are quite a few at around 55-57kg. More than there are 145kg sheet hands. Tue, 31 Aug 2010 08:57:02 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=30#2532 Any 65kg helms out there looking for crew? Must have somone to do the bow who is the same size. My point was that calling a 110kg crew lardy was symptomatic of a trend in sailing, a sport that has yet to fully integrate that fit young people are taller and heavieron average that they were. Gordon Tue, 31 Aug 2010 08:45:16 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=30#2531 I completely disagree, a heavy sailor is at no disadvantage in an SB3 if they can find a couple of tiddlers to sail with. The point is that they are not at a gear advantage either. Max weight for any one individual in the SB3 would be 145kgs? Tue, 31 Aug 2010 08:37:21 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=30#2530 Another example of the continuing and ever developing discrimination against larger sailors. 110 kg hardly counts as heavyweight these days - only just enough to play flanker or inside centre! The perverse and discriminatory introduction of low weight limits is excluding an increasing number of sailors from the sport at a time when the average height and weight of young people (I am not talking about obese kids but fit teenagers and young adults) is increasing. Maybe it is time for the XXXL sailor to fight for our rights. Personally I was the only person to speak at that dark day in 2001 when the Star Class AGM in Medemblick voted in favour of the new weight limit. This was the day the Star class ceased to be the ultimate heavyweight class and became a class for weightwatchers, tall anorexics and such like. With my helm we were far from obese at 94 and 114 kg, but at the top end of the old weight limit. Gordon PS1 Same size and weight as John Hayes - it was a shock to discover I am now the too small for the second row - but then rugby has moved with the times, whilst sailing is increasingly a sport for small people. PS2 We briefly tried toe straps in the Dragons in the 1980s, as did a boat from Kinsale. They made crewing infinitely more comfortable, but gave little or no advantage on the beat as we sat out in the same position. At the time reaching legs were a feature of all races, and the toestraps were a dsitinct advantage. They were almost instantly ruled to be illegal Tue, 31 Aug 2010 08:33:29 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=30#2529 The rules are what they are. They say, keep your arse in side the granny rail and do not do anything that can be construed as supporting your weight outboard. Leaving asside discussion on leg weight, functionally that means you can not put your feet under anything if you let go of everything you would not have to make any adjustment to not start to fall outwards. In fact the ideal way to demonstrate to the jury that everything is fine will be to give them a wave. What could be more in keeping with a sociable sport? I will be totally honest -- as obviously we don't think we are breaking the rules, most other people do the same and it is advice we have openly offered -- this means that in a boat where inches count and particularly in a breeze at key moments we will pay attention to having our 'shoulders out'. We are not talking about a position that is physically difficult to maintain or greatly different to just sitting on the side of the boat. We are talking ensuring that you are not slouching into the boat etc. In fact for me as sheet hand its a much better position to sheet from as it aligns your back slightly more with the sheet load (which can only be a good thing). We get away with being 15kg under max as we pay attention to that kind of detail (and many others). We also take pride in abiding by the rules. All three of us feel that we would rather loose knowing that we have sailed fairly than cheat and win. And I realize that's quite a big statement to make this publicly! If you allowed hiking in an SB3 it would transform the boat up wind. How ever it would as you say mean that you would be looking to get weight outboard by having a tall big fella in the middle. At the moment the teams of 4 are at no disadvantage. It would also mean that the most extreme hiking would give a big improvement in speed upwind and the class would become extremely physical to sail. You can add to that that kinetics would be required of Laser 1 proportions. You can just about tourque the boat over waves at present but it's extremely difficult to make it effective. IF you where hiking if would work to the point where you would have to do it. The differences in interpretation and behavior we are talking about at present are relatively minor and easily policed. The most obvious ones are bows who sit sideways and lean out and people using the side of the boat to support their body weight. If hiking was allowed the difference in physicality between 'the front of the fleet' and what an averagely fit person could be reasonably expected to do would not only exist (where as it doesn't at present) it would be quite significant. Tue, 31 Aug 2010 08:23:32 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=30#2528 But I should add these 'lady aids' are all the more preferable to other one designs where sitting out has got so extreme its turned small keelboats in to dinghies. Look at the antics of the Melges guys hanging out of the guardrails or closer to home in the flying fifteens where you need a 110kg lardy crew at full hike to get anywhere. I'd be interested to hear what others think? D. Tue, 31 Aug 2010 07:43:34 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=24#2527 Ricm, One of the main reasons cited behind the success of the 1720 and SB3 was the no sitting out rule and the introduction of the 'lady bars' to prevent it. so It's interesting to see from this thread that the rule is now so scrutinised in some quarters with sailors finding ways to get around it. in the Dragon class its the same and sailors who are not meant to sit out have spent years curling toes round thwarts in the absence of toe straps. Looking for ward to some action at the weekend. PS I did read the thread fully, promise. Tue, 31 Aug 2010 07:30:05 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2442#2526 Hi all, Last winter I stored my boat in dry storage in Panama Central America. I was very lucky to have removed the speed log from the hull to allow any water that should happen to make its way inside the boat to have a drain. The problem was that the marina moved my boat while I was in Asia and placed it under a tree, well it does not take a rocket scientist to imagine what happens to all those leaves and twigs that blow off over the course of the winter. Most of them ended up inside my cockpit. They then blocked up my cockpit scuppers and the water rose until it made it through my hatch boards. The water did not get too high due to the removed log but still 6 months in the tropics with a bilge full of fresh water makes a perfect space for a new rain forest. Later while sailing in the San Blas Islands in the Caribbean side of Panama I was changing my water filters for the water maker and I cut the cartridge up to see how it was build and inside the tube was a plastic mesh moulded into a tube. Next time I haul out I can place the mesh tube into the cockpit drain and even if the leaves were to fill the cockpit now there is a mesh to allow water to flow through the drain to the ground. So before we throw away so much rubbish maybe have a look at see if u can make something useful out of it and then maybe post the idea here and we can all do bit more on the green side and also a bit less on our pockets If anyone wants a picture of one you can email me materialcontrol@gmail.com A free and green solution to what could have been a great problem Tue, 31 Aug 2010 00:40:12 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=24#2525 I am only the Class measurer and cannot speak for the race judges but it has now become resonably common practice at major SB3 events for some guidance and clarification to be offered on how the race judges will operate. Mon, 30 Aug 2010 16:20:44 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=24#2524 Lets keep any further debate on this to the one place on the SB3 forum. That is where the majority of SB3 sailors will be looking. (if every one was wearing skin tight lyca may be. I doubt you will be able to rely on 'see the rail' in practice although it's prety obvious even from a distance when some one is sitting on the rail. more relevently you will still be able to see teh rail even when people are doing somethign in excess of what has been described) Tillerman, Did you actualy bother to read the thread on the SB3 forum that you so kindly linked too? Mon, 30 Aug 2010 16:18:28 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=24#2523 As I understand it this is the class rule: C.3.3 POSITIONING (a) When hiking or sitting outboard, crews shall sit facing inboard in such a way that the base of their spine or legs are not on or over the side rails, or outside the forward extension of the line of the side rails, (b) No device, method or sheet may be used to implement or assist hiking or sitting outboard other than the foot straps as positioned and supplied by the licensed manufacturer. If there is any official interpretation of this rule it would be as well to post it on official notice board, and (possibly) include as an appendix to the SIs.Judges can only apply formally approved rules and regulations. As I read this, looking from outside the boat, if the judge can't see the guard rail because some one is sitting on or over it then the class rule has been infringed. As long as this is the case they can then lean backwards. Gordon Mon, 30 Aug 2010 16:18:00 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=24#2522 Rick Again this has been debated at lenght. In the UK many boats sail with girls many of whom have difficulty in planting their feet on the floor if their backsides are pressed up to the granny rail. I am trying hard not be sexist but the feet on the floor proposal was not adopted for this reason. As you can see the problem with the torso control approach is accomodating natural adjustment to the angle of heel. The bottom line is that to observers it is very obvious whether crew are hiking excessively or adjusting to heel. The excessive hiking upwind tends to occur on starting lines where it very difficult for judges to police. I agree that the World's videos appear to show a lot of excessive hiking upwind but if you look closely, the top boats were very careful about it. It also looks like it was the 4 person crews and non UK or Irish boats who were most likely to be seen doing it. I think it is fair to say that the Technical and Rules Committee of SB3 International accept this is hard to police fairly but excessive abuse of the rule is very obvious and the informal focus has been to address this rather than going down the route of putting everyone in "straitjackets" with cumbersome regulations. As an aside, the people who have tried the Match Racing version of the SB3, Symetrical Spinnaker, granny rails removed and toe straps fitted, almost universally feel the boat is more comfortable and secure to sail than the standard version, although the fact that it is much slower downwind might have something to do with creating this feeling. Food for thought!!! Mon, 30 Aug 2010 16:14:32 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=24#2521 So you are saying that at the race officer's briefing on Friday, Gordon will also get the opportunity to brief crews on how he intends to police the event? Mon, 30 Aug 2010 15:48:17 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=18#2520 I've proposed an interpretation that can be applied on the water for 'upwind 42' on the thread ont eh Sb3 forum. I'd rather have feedback/agreement on that but otehrwise I'm happy to brief that to Gordon as what we want them to look for. i.e. keep your feet on the floor Mon, 30 Aug 2010 15:34:38 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=18#2519 Ok I will see you on Friday and we can make an arrangement. I understand the debate regarding the powers of the umpires but history has demonstrated to the SB3 fleet in the past that just the presence of on the water judges who blow whitles and wave flags in an "advisory" role has an immense impact on rule observance. The only people who will not respond to this type of encouragement tend to be either ignorant of the rules or they are die hard cheats of whom I would say we have none in the SB3 fleet. However I will say that rule 42 issues and hiking infringements should be penalised on the spot or at least protested by the "observers". My belief is that when the competitors are briefed they will understand the regime of compliance which is expected and that rule infringements will be minimal and usually caused by errors in judgement. Mon, 30 Aug 2010 15:32:00 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=18#2518 Given the people raising flags and blowing wistles will also be sat on the protest committee you'd have to be prety stupid not to take your turns when they flag something ... or not clear on what the foul was in which case it will presumably be clarifed in arbitration and they will get the oportunity to take a 20%er or have a couple of wintesses that will shed fresh light on what happened in a hearing Genuine on the water umpiring would take a team of at least 4 boats and 8 umpires. We're not quite at that level of resource yet. Mon, 30 Aug 2010 15:30:37 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=18#2517 The idea is to provide an on the water "advisory service" rather than a refereeing function This is where a good idea falls over. It needs to be policed. The only way to 'advise' them is to penalise 'em....then they won't do it again..... Mon, 30 Aug 2010 15:12:59 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=18#2516 Artful Dodger - if you're interested come out on Sunday or on Friday if the measuring has finished. I will be there for the briefing. It is always useful for us to have input from someone who knows the boat well. And you may be able to reassure your fellow sailors that the whistle-blowing, flag-waving, rules-spouting guys on the jury boats are actually human. In reply to Josh's question - the usual plan is for judges who see what they believe to be an infringement to signal that they have seen it (whistle and flag). They would expect a boat to take a penalty. this will be detailed in the SIs Nothing alters the (rarely used) possibility for the protest committee to protest an incident they have witnessed. The idea is to provide an on the water "advisory service" rather than a refereeing function Gordon Mon, 30 Aug 2010 14:54:06 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=18#2515 Tiller man understands. B) Mon, 30 Aug 2010 14:46:41 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=12#2514 yes but what sort of adjudicating will be done at the marks, will you red flag them on the spot requiring turns or just be an whistling observer? Mon, 30 Aug 2010 14:45:27 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=12#2513 Gordon I could only do Sunday and I will also be involved in the measuring on Thursday and Friday. http://www.afloat.ie/images/fbfiles/images/23289.jpg Mon, 30 Aug 2010 14:26:17 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=12#2512 If Artful Dodger is unable to sail at the Nationals, perhaps he would like to spend a day on a Jury boat? Or would anyone else be interested? Gordon Mon, 30 Aug 2010 14:06:21 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=12#2511 I certainly was not trying be offensive. All I was doing was clarifying a serious misconception in the same vernacular as the original comments which promted my note. You cannot make unfair generalisations which are widely read in a public forum without expecting a robust reponse. I am certain Tilleman who is known for his forthrightness understands the ground rules for this type of debate. Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:59:31 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=6&id=2492#2510 Some initial pics now up on our website from Ger Leahy ...more to follow .... Youghal Bay Gallery (http://www.youghalbay.com/gallery.html?view=album&album=5511143964487884241&page=1) Mon, 30 Aug 2010 11:33:10 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=6&id=2492#2509 A beautiful sunset last evening over Youghal Bay finally drew a fitting curtain over an exciting day of powerboat racing in the East Cork town. Returning to Cork waters for the first time in many years this year's ISA National Powerboat Championship is proving to be a huge success with intense competition across all classes and superb excitement for spectators. With the waters directly off the quays in Youghal roaring to the sound of 14 race engines, the quays were equally buzzing with the chatter of keen spectators enjoying this unique blend of water, noise, bravery and spectacle. Although only in it's first year, this was Youghal Bay Boat Club's second hosting of a round of the National Championships - the first being in Ardmore back in July. In Ardmore it was the P750 (Thundercat) classes that provided the excitement, this time out the entire national powerboat racing fleet came to party. The weekend of maritime activities had begun the previous day with local marine training centre Aquatrek hosting the Munster Final of the Yachtsman Euromarine Rib Challenge and Youghal Bay Boat Club hosting their Commodore's Cup and a thrilling aerobatics display by Gerry Humphries (and his wonderfully daft flying cow!) in the skies above Youghal. With two new ribs up for grabs in the national finals of the Rib Challenge, competition was naturally keen. Challenges were spread across land-based skills, questions and tasks - while on the water crews were tasked with a variety of tests. When the dust settled, the teams going through to the national final were announced as: Seniors: 1st - Aquatrek Training Centre 2nd - Youghal Bay Boat Club 3rd - Tralee Bay Sailing Club Juniors: 1st - Aquatrek Training Centre 2nd - Wexford Harbour Boat & Tennis Club 3rd - Wexford Harbour Boat & Tennis Club Sunday morning arrived with a car-park full of very strange machines for the people of Youghal to wonder about - it's not every day you see a van with what looks like a little jet plane parked on its roof. With crews and boats from the four corners of Ireland filling out the car park the excitement grew from early morning until the first boats hit the water just after noon to begin a long day of hot action. Under blue skies and mostly clear water the afternoon was filled with twelve races in total. Community Radio Youghal were on hand to provide informative commentary and fill the time between races with music and banter. With this being the penultimate round of the national championships the racing was always expected to be intense, and the crews didn't disappoint. Turn after turn, race after race, the crowds were treated to top-notch racing directly in front of the town's quays. The big F2's rocketing past at 100 miles an hour throwing huge plumes of water into the skies, the little P750 (Thundercats) throwing their boats and crews into impossible turns just inches apart from one another, and the T850 monohulls buzzing, skimming and often flying across the water. For Youghal Bay Boat Club this was the first year in the build towards a major annual Maritime Festival, and it proved to be a satisfying success. For the spectators it was another opportunity to enjoy the wonderful spectacle which the waters of Youghal can provide. For the competitors it was an opportunity to showcase their sport and battle hard for championship points. At the end of a long and exciting day the honours went to the following: T850 Class 1st: Oliver Haire (North East Powerboat & Racing Club) 2nd: Megan Anderson (North East Powerboat & Racing Club) 3rd: Philip Haire (North East Powerboat & Racing Club) Formula 2 Class 1st: Will Chambers (Lisnaskea Boat Club) 2nd: Liam Ralph (East Coast Powerboat Racing Club) 3rd: Oliver Haire (North East Powerboat & Racing Club) Formula 4 Class 1st: Will Chambers (Lisnaskea Boat Club) 2nd: Phil Boyle (Irish Powerboat Club) P750 (Thundercats) 1st: Sean Dillon & Gary Hogg (Irish Offshore Powerboat Racing Club) 2nd: Colin Snow & Conor Mullally (East Coast Powerboat Racing Club) 3rd: Ronan O'Connor & Fionn Little (Youghal Bay Boat Club) Photographs to follow Mon, 30 Aug 2010 08:24:56 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=6&id=2492#2508 ISA National Powerboat Racing Championships Youghal. This weekend saw the hosting of the ISA National Powerboat Racing Championships by Youghal Bay Boat Club. This new club did themselves proud under the direction of OOD and Club Commodore Padraig Brooks. A well attended event, the crowds on the Quays were witness to some superb racing. $ Four Racing classes were in attendance with the competitors coming from all four provinces in Ireland. After a day of exciting racing the results were T850 Oliver Haire – North East Powerboat & Racing Club Megan Anderson - North East Powerboat & Racing Club Philip Haire - North East Powerboat & Racing Club Formula 2 Will Chambers – Lisnaskea Boat Club Liam Ralph – East Coast Powerboat Racing Club Oliver Haire - North East Powerboat & Racing Club Formula 4 Will Chambers – Lisnaskea Boat Club Phil Boyle - Irish Powerboat Club P750 Sean Dillon/Gary Hogg – Irish Offshore Powerboat Racing Club Colin Snow/Conor Mullally – East Coast Powerboat Racing Club Ronan O Connor/Fionan Little – Youghal Bay Boat Club Nest Race New Ross September 12th Photos to follow Sun, 29 Aug 2010 23:36:40 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=6&id=2419#2507 The southern Regional Final of the ISA Yachtsman euromarine Rib Challenge was held at Aquatrek in Youghal over the weekend. Teams from all over the south came hoping to attain one of the places which would see them through to the National final. Both the Senior and Junior competitions saw stiff competition with the scoring been as tight as possible. The senior competition saw the top 3 teams divided by only 3 points with only 4 points dividing the junior competitions top three. The results and teams qualifying for the final were Senior Competition 1st Aquatrek Training Centre 2nd Youghal Bay Boat Club 3rd Tralee Bay Sailing Club Junior Competition 1st Aquatrek Training Centre 2nd Wexford Harbour Boat & Tennis Club 3rd Wexford Harbour Boat & Tennis Club Well done to all teams who entered and especially those that qualified for the National Finals. Sun, 29 Aug 2010 23:19:11 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=12#2506 As at the 2008 Nationals the protest committee will be on the water. Even better, we will have 2 boats on the water. We will be paying particular attention to events at the windward mark. My experience at the 2008 Nationals leads me to believe that if competitors see a Jury boat they are less likely to tale risks when comint in to the mark. Gordon Sun, 29 Aug 2010 16:51:55 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=12#2505 Steady on Old Bean. I am perfectly sure there was no offence meant on Tillerman's part that is not his style. No offence meant and there should be none taken after his abject apology. I am rather surprised, as personal attacks in sailing circles and particularly in a public forum are not the norm. Having received an apology a good shake hands would be better received. Sat, 28 Aug 2010 20:54:19 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=6#2504 Tillerman's observations are totally out of order and sound like they come from someone who knows very little about the SB3s. These are quick boats which all go the same speed, so congestion at marks is always going to be an issue. If Tillerman takes the trouble to read through the entire debate on the SB3 website,http://chat.lasersb3.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=3325,he will see a very constructive discussion is under way involving almost 1400 views and 50 comments. I think this is unprecedented in any Irish racing class. The SB3 is a fast boat and they nearly all travel at exactly the same speed. This will inevitably lead to congestion on the race track and I think the discussion the SB3 fleet is having at present is really useful in ensuring we can continue to enjoy this close level of racing as safely as possible. Sure I would have preferred not to have experienced such a serious bang last weekend in Galway, 2 seperate collisions in fact, and I am disappointed to miss the Nationals next week as a consequence. However, it is important to appreciate that there was no acrimony over the incident, only a collective desire within the class to learn from the experience and hopefully minimise the potential for it happening again. I know the Protest Committee in Galway was astonished at the non confrontational manner in which the hearing was conducted and that they were only essentially being asked to adjudicate on agreed facts between all the parties involved. Both boats which hit me offered me their boats for the Nationals!! Tell me of another Class in which this would happen. As undoubtedly the one who suffered the most from the incident I do take offence at Tillerman's gratuitous and ill informed remarks which sound like they come from the comfort of a bar stool looking out at the rest of us enjoying superb exciting one design racing in an outstanding inexpensive high performance boat. In my experience rules compliance and acceptance of on the water penalties in the SB3 is much better than in other classes with which I am very familiar and I am fed up listening to people who do not sail in the SB3 class pontificating about matters of which they have no direct experience. I cannot think of another class in which I have sailed, and there have been quite a few at every level of competition, where the sense of fair play, sportmanship and old fashioned gentlemanly behaviour is so embedded in the culture of the class. Sure we are always going to have mishaps,misunderstandings and even collisions but unlike most other classes we are active about constructively resolving the matters we need to change and do not indulge ourselves in mindless,unhelpful and ill informed generalisations. So Tillerman, get down from your stool, spend less time at your computer and do some real sailing in a properly competive fleet and then we might listen to you. Sat, 28 Aug 2010 18:17:11 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=6#2503 Ah, It wouldn't be such a touchy subject if it hadn't been a problem. And we wouldn't be having on the water judges at the nationals if every one was happy with the chances some people in the fleet take when we get a large fleet as an event. Plenty of stories from that Worlds of people (who shall we say did quite well) grabbing other boats on start lines etc. Never a comfortable thing to do to clean house and keep it tidy on issues like this but we're doing what we can and there have been big improvements. Fri, 27 Aug 2010 16:41:08 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=6#2502 I am very sorry about my comments if they caused any offence to the Irish SB3 fleet. I watched several races at the worlds in Dun Laoghaire and could not believe my eyes about the amount of collisions that I saw without anyone doing turns. Mind you, i'm not surprised though with the speed the boats do. Anyhow I am sure that was all a long tine ago and things have improved since. My comments were a genuine effort on my part to say rule observance should be important to the class especially when expensive damage occurs, perhpas it should have been phrased a lot better. Forgiven? TM. Fri, 27 Aug 2010 13:58:23 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2501#2501 Reading the IT this morning I see that you can buy a new 29er for €4,000 while a new 420 is €10,000! Here is the relevant bit from IT. But without an established 29er class in Ireland, the 420 is the next step but is very expensive both to purchase and maintain, according to the young sailors. Second-hand boats are hard to come by and new boats cost €10,000, while a brand-new 29er is €4,000. Analysis of the relevant UK websites does not bear these facts out. On the 29er website there are six 2nd hand 29ers for sale ranging from GBP2250 to GBP3950, while on the 420 websites there are 7 boats from GBP3450 to GBP440 The Ovington website offers a new 29er from GBP6825, while the 420 site advises a new boat is GBP6800 Fri, 27 Aug 2010 09:28:42 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=6#2500 Hilarious Briany :-D Thu, 26 Aug 2010 20:44:33 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=6#2499 Well said Dave and very true. Unfortunately collisions happen in big fleets. Even Antix was involved in a collision at the CC. ICRA this year wasn't without its share of damage either. A bit of overnight glasswork also required at the Etchells. That's what it's like at the leading edge. you should try it sometime Tillerman Thu, 26 Aug 2010 15:45:00 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481&limit=6&limitstart=6#2498 Take a look at the picture from Galway on the home page. Conditions were tough with big wind and waves, and a very close fleet. Collisions and incidents are normal for any competitive one design fleet. 1720's were exactly the same back in the day and Etchells have had their share of incidents and protests over the past couple of weeks. I'm not trying to defend the obvious rule breaking, just commenting that it is similar across most one designs and not just the SB3's. Any fleet with 30 boats arriving at a weather mark within 60 secs of each other will have some trouble. It is this tight racing that makes it so much more fun than IRC and handicap racing.... Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:39:42 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=6&id=2419#2497 ISA YACHTSMAN EUROMARINE RIB CHALLENGE 2010 This weekend will see Aquatrek in Youghal play host the Southern Regional Final in this years ISA Yachtsman euromarine Rib Challenge. Starting at 11 o'clock we will see teams from the South battle it out to reach a place in the National Finals 2010. This years challenge sees Junior Teams taking part for the first time. This is to encourage best practice and training of our youth who are the sailors and Powerboaters of the future. Of course the senior competition is still there and our more experiences boaters have the chance to demonstrate their skills in boat handling, line throwing and of course trailer revearsing. Entry is still open so contact Rachel on 01 271 0114 or training@sailing.ie to book your place. http://www.afloat.ie/images/fbfiles/images/Riblogo.jpg Thu, 26 Aug 2010 13:43:17 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=6&id=2492#2496 Lots on as blimp has said in Youghal this weekend. Saturday will see the ISA Yachtsman euromarine Rib challenge. ISA YACHTSMAN EUROMARINE RIB CHALLENGE 2010 This weekend will see Aquatrek in Youghal play host the Southern Regional Final in this years ISA Yachtsman euromarine Rib Challenge. Starting at 11 o'clock we will see teams from the South battle it out to reach a place in the National Finals 2010. This years challenge sees Junior Teams taking part for the first time. This is to encourage best practice and training of our youth who are the sailors and Powerboaters of the future. Of course the senior competition is still there and our more experiences boaters have the chance to demonstrate their skills in boat handling, line throwing and of course trailer revearsing. Entry is still open so contact Rachel on 01 271 0114 or training@sailing.ie to book your place. and of course Sunday will see Youghal Bay Host the ISA National Powerboat racing Championships. I am looking forward to another great Round of the ISA National Powerboat Racing Championships. With only two rounds remaining Youghal this weekend will see every competitor competing for those vital championship points. Local interest will of course be on the P750 class with a number of club boats involved. Race Instructions, Course Layouts, entry Forms available on the ISA Website at http://www.sailing.ie/motorboat/inside/default.asp?pageId=924 Regards Denis Thu, 26 Aug 2010 13:31:21 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481#2495 hey tillerman maybe i'll ask the moderators to remove your comments so you don't look like a complete idiot Thu, 26 Aug 2010 09:32:45 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481#2494 Didn't know you had an involvement Tillerman? Do you have something against the individual who cause the incident in Galway? If so say so because this is about individuals rather than the class in general. Their behavior would be the same, in fact has been the same, what ever boat they where sailing in. Otherwise I'm not sure what you are trying to achieve by bringing this up here and making assertions about the SB3s being a 'crash bang class'. I know *every one* who sails SB3s in Howth, up north etc. will be greatly offended by that statement and you really should consider retracting it. It's pretty clear from that thread that a lot is being done about it. This has no reflection on Galway or this years SB3 Westerns, which was a superbly run event and essentially a very promising 'new' venue. Or are you just shit stirring? Because cross posting this to afloat is going to make it harder to work through any issues and find solutions. Thu, 26 Aug 2010 09:08:50 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481#2493 you guys already have name as a crash, bang wallop class so for the sake of a great event in Galway isn't it time this got sorted out? http://chat.lasersb3.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=3325 PID=12001#12001 Thu, 26 Aug 2010 08:32:07 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=6&id=2492#2492 Further to the article out on the front page (thanks David!), some more details now follow on our plans for this weekend. Open invitation to all - hopefully it'll be a cracking event! Our Maritime Weekend kicks off on Saturday as Aquatrek host the Munster Final of the 'ISA Yachtsman Euromarine Rib Challenge' on the quays in Youghal. If you're part of an ISA club or training centre you should get a team together and enter. There are 2 classes - Junior and Senior. More details can be found by clicking here, or by phoning our very own John Innes on 086 859 3482. And it's not all about power this weekend (well, mostly it is!). We're having a Commodore's Cup Sailing Regatta also on Saturday afternoon. Sailors from Youghal and Inniscarra will compete on the water, and try not to get mowed down by wayward competitors in the Rib Challenge. On Sunday the adrenaline kicks in with up to four classes of powerboats competing in this full round of the ISA National Powerboat Championships. This is the only round to be held in County Cork this year and after the great success of the recent race in Ardmore (which we also hosted!) we're hoping for something really memorable .....and this time there's even more classes competing. First up will be the F2 boats. These are twin-hulled boats where the driver sits restrained in a safety-cell to race. Speeds here are up to 120mph / 190kmph!!! The track for this race has been designed so that the boats reach maximum speed right alongside the main viewing areas on Nealon's Quay. Next up is the F4 fleet - similar in appearance to the F2's these little rockets can get up to 85 mph / 136kmph. They'll be racing the same course as the T850 fleet - a class which is limited to simple monohulls powered by stock outboard engines. Speeds here are in the region of 75mph / 120kmph. Finally we've got the P750 fleet - or as they're better known around these parts ...the Thundercats!! These are funky inflatable, affordable boats that race on circuit (which they'll be doing here in Youghal), surf or long-haul. This type of racing is high adrenaline and high action with tight competitive courses making crews work hard to stabilise their boats and obtain maximum speed. For Youghal we've designed a particularly exciting course with a tight technical slalom section and fast straights. Racing begins around noon and runs throughout the afternoon with three races in each class. Our good friends at Community Radio Youghal will be doing a live broadcast from Nealon's Quay throughout the afternoon. With just a few days to go we might just be able to add in a few extra special elements yet ...so check back regularly! More news and updates available from the club website Youghal Bay (http://www.youghalbay.com/) Wed, 25 Aug 2010 17:39:31 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2246&limit=6&limitstart=24#2491 Claire, You've misquoted me there a bit. I love living in Ireland, more than I did England I have to say. After all I live here out of choice. And being a chippy northern ex-Mancunian I even have a secret affinity with Corkness too even though I live in Dublin (on the Northside!) No way was I putting down on the efforts of people with in sailing to promote the sport. After all I sent my mum a clip of the 50 milliseconds we where on the RTE 6 One news in the autumn! I just thought it was interesting that RTE had picked up on the RCC story rather than Sail for Gold. As you say the contrast is with the BBC where they picked up on Peter. So there is a contrast, and for me a it's a bit of a reminder of past experience. It's not so much the efforts of people like your self it's the editorial policy outside of sailing circles that this highlights I guess. That's part of why we went so heavily for the Ireland vs The World angle for the international match racing event in July and will continue to do so. Missed the interview, fair play to Barry if he used the pulpit for a bit of preaching! Tue, 24 Aug 2010 19:46:11 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2246&limit=6&limitstart=18#2490 We were all thrilled and absolutely delighted and, I might add extremely proud of Peter and Frithjof's wonderful achievement at Skandia Sail for Gold and did our level best to publicise it. I for one had the story absolutely every single day on the RCYC website and updates in between. Afloat carried it and the Irish Examiner and Irish Times carried it. I think the difference is that RTE used a press release and a little coverage of Cowes but then the BBC carried Peter. I am not for a moment disputing the coverage at the moment with all the hype seems greater. Of course Peter was also on Scuttlebutt, particularly the Star class on the Curmudgeon with its American slant. To win at any stage in the Star Class is a mind boggling achievement and at an event like Weymouth was unbelieveable except that we know Peter can do it! Also the Star Class gives total and due recognition to the crew who are always included and receive medals. But you know you have to be lucky with the publicity - it usually depends on what matches are being played or some boxing match in some far flung country or, of course, the GAA. So, RICM please don't think we don't try and add a remark like "now you know you live in Ireland'. We are all doing our level best. Why don't you try it some time and see how you get on! Any time Peter is sailing his Star anywhere in the world I have publicised him and will continue to do so - hopefully right up to Weymouth 2012. (The Star being a particular favourite of mine for so many years) but that won't ever stop me trying to get publicity for all our other wonderful sailors either. Hope you heard Barry Rose's interview on RTE Radio just gone and note he also gave due praise to Peter's wonderful win in the Star against some of the truly best sailors in the world. Tue, 24 Aug 2010 19:27:27 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2246&limit=6&limitstart=18#2489 This is the kind of thing that reminds me I live in Ireland. It's a great result and the story is brilliant but it's amazing that this is getting more media attention than Peter O'Learys win at Sail For Gold. I mean that was a win at a round of the World Cup, at the venue of the next Olympics, in a fleet that contained at least 12 Olympic gold medals. And the event is used by pretty much every one as an indicator for selection so it's not like any one would of been backing off. Great to see sailing getting national coverage in any form and for any reason though. Tue, 24 Aug 2010 16:30:40 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2246&limit=6&limitstart=18#2488 ICRA COMMODORE BARRY ROSE INTERVIEW ON RTE Radio one this evening (24th) There will be an interview with Irish Cruiser Racing Association (ICRA) Commodore Barry Rose on RTE Radio One this evening. The interview will go out during Sport Tonight. The programme will commence at 6.30pm and run to 7.30pm. Don't know which slot it will be in but the promo is running on some of RTE's radio programmes this afternoon. The subject of last weeks sailing at Cowes should be interesting. Tue, 24 Aug 2010 14:39:13 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481#2487 on its way once Brainy has edited out the typos! Tue, 24 Aug 2010 14:03:18 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481#2486 Great to see the results here, Briany. Any chance of a short Galway race report for readers? Tue, 24 Aug 2010 07:45:20 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2485#2485 [IMG]http://imgur.com/dzsAf.jpg[/IMG] TWO Irishmen were aboard the fastest boat at 37th Darwin Lions Beer Can Regatta in Australia’s Northern Territory this month. They won the Adult Beer Can Boat Challenge. Michael Sweetman, Wexford, and Conor Byrne, Fingal, were aboard the four man beer can catamaran, Terror Knarley-arse , made from nearly 1000 beer cans held together with silicone, fibreglass and expanding foam. Entries included a Japanese girl band making a reality TV show around the regatta, and a US team from the world's largest hospital ship, docked in town for the weekend. Organiser Des Gellert reckoned it was one of the largest regattas. “There were probably in the order of 16,000 people at the beach, which is probably one of the biggest and best (regattas) for quite some time,” Mr Gellert said. “All in all, the crowd was very well behaved and entered the event in the right spirit and were out there to have fun, and boy did they succeed.” Mr Gellert said the 28 boats that took part was also the best amount of entries in many years. “Some boats were extraordinary and shouldn’t have floated, others just went round in circles,” Mr Gellert said. Terror Knarley-arse Skipper Bruce Cutler said it was a great team effort to even make it to the start line of the race. “We were more than 100 beer cans short going into the last week of boat building, but everyone on the crew knuckled down and blew the froth of just enough tinnies to get the boat in such a fine condition,” Mr Cutler said. “Pity the same couldn’t be said for some of the crew by the end of the day of fun in the sun.” The boat cost more that $600 to build. Mr Gellert said about $30,000 was raised from the event. Crew: Bruce Cutler (c), Col Fletcher, Michael Sweetman (Wexford) and Conor Byrne (Fingal). Caption: Some groupies aboard winning beer can boat Terror Knarley-arse at the 2010 Darwin Lions Beer Can Regatta, in Australia's Northern Territory. Two Irishmen were aboard the boat. [IMG]http://imgur.com/onEv6.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://imgur.com/RH88E.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://imgur.com/696Lb.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://imgur.com/qHggL.jpg[/IMG] Photos: Bruce Cutler, Emily Cunnane, Michelle Barry. More info (http://www.google.com.au/search?q=beer+can+regatta&sourceid=ie7&rls=com.microsoft:en-US&ie=utf8&oe=u) Tue, 24 Aug 2010 07:39:33 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2481#2481 Captain Morgan SB3 Western Championships results (http://www.gbsc.ie/index.php?option=com_wrapper&view=wrapper&Itemid=124) 1st Sharkbait - Ben Duncan (1,1,2,1) Total 5.0 2nd McCready Sailboats - Garreth Flanagan (2,3,2,1) Total 8.0 3rd Belfast Kitchen Company - Peter Kennedy (4,4,1,7) Total 16.0 4th Lia - Dave Barry (3,5,8,3) Total 19.0 5th Yeti - Sean Craig 6th Duff Beer - Gregory Bell 7th Dinghy Supplies - Darragh Sheridan 8th Profile Park - Ronan Downing 9th Flutter - Andrew Algeo 10th Bullet - Trevor D'arcy 11th Alert Packaging - Justin Burke 12th Seriously Bonkers - Martin Cuppage 13th Monkey - Graham Elmes 14th QEP - Paul McMahon 15th Snuggler - Roger Little 16th Lupi D'Irlanda - Marco Sorgassi 17th Indecision - Donal Herraghy 18th Sailing West - Audrey Adamson 19th Bad - Enda Coineen 20th Ganze Red - Aidan Breen 21st Jumpin' Jack Flash - Jonathan Foley 22nd Smoke - Bob Hobby 23rd Bumble B - Fionnula Loughrey 24th Investwise - David Quinn 25th Artful Dodger - Roger Bannon 26th Sirius Black - Ken Hudson 27th Mandarin - Roger Byrne 28th Rope Locker - John Callanan 29th Broomsticks - Brian Reilly (DNC) Mon, 23 Aug 2010 21:26:28 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=6&id=2420#2479 Powerboat Race Ballyronan, Lough Neagh, Race Report Sunday 22nd August saw Powerboat Circuit Racers from all over Ireland descend on Ballyronan on the tranquil shores of Lough Neagh. Competitors came from all four provinces to support the newly formed North East Powerboat & Racing club in the running of their first event. North East Powerboat & racing Club did themselves proud, they hosted an excellent event where they not only catered for the competitor needs but also encouraged families and other to come along and have a good time, Face painting and Dancing displays were provided by members of the club. On the racing front, all competitor feed back stated that they had a great days racing and were very impressed with the facilities and the support the local community and members of the public gave them. All to a man & woman said they looked forward to a return visit in the future. First out on the racing Circuit was Commodore of the local Club, Oliver Haire in a Formula 2. This was Oliver’s first race in a Formula 2 and he was under up against his mentors Liam Ralph & Will Chambers who are 2 of the most Experienced Formula 2 drivers on the island. In the race Oliver showed he was up for it and as the day went on showed he has what it takes to drive an F2. P750 class was out next with a promising showdown between Keith Plummer/ Lee Casey & Colin Snow/Conor Mullally who are at the top of the national Championship where every point is important. Aidan Foley/Martin Morris & Denis Dillon/Philip Haire although not fighting for the championship had made it clear that they were there to race. The Big local interest was in the T850 Vee Hulls with 3 members of the local club racing, Oliver & Philip Haire and new racer Megan Anderson. We would also see Keith Plumber trying out this class for the first time. As the day progressed we saw some exciting action and the crows that attended seemed to really enjoy themselves. A total of 9 races were held and when it came to the prize giving the final results looked like this, Formula 2 1st Will Chambers 2nd Oliver Haire 3rd Liam Ralph T850 Vee Hulls 1st Oliver Haire 2nd Philip Haire 3rd Keith Plummer P750 1st Keith Plummer/Lee Casey 2nd Denis Dillon/Philip Haire 3rd Colin Snow/Conor Mullally This was a splendid event which was well supported by the local community. A Big thank you must go out to all that gave their time to make sure this event happen, Marshals, Rescue, Divers, Officials, Competitors and of course Cookstown District Council, Lough Neagh Partnership and Tabba who kindly let us use the fine facilities at Ballyronan Marina. Mon, 23 Aug 2010 11:17:17 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2475#2478 2hr drive door to door too. Mon, 23 Aug 2010 08:10:45 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2475#2477 Here, here... Fantastic event, really well run in a great venue. Galway needs more of this. It would be a great venue for a 3 or 4 day event or even a big OD event with SB3's and a few other classes like J24's, etchells, etc. They certainly have the harbour to cater for the numbers. Sun, 22 Aug 2010 23:33:54 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2246&limit=6&limitstart=18#2476 Many congratulations to the Irish Commodore's Cup Team for a sterling (excuse the pun) performance. A classy show of consistent sailing and a vindication after the frustration of the last two attempts. There will be many people who were involved in the last two versions of the competition who will be equally delighted at this result - assuming that this win is as a consequence not only of excellence on the water but an iteritive process built on past experience. Great to have won every race on the water ona team and to have dominated the overall scoring in the event. I'm sure Cowes was awash with Guinness! Sun, 22 Aug 2010 21:43:43 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2475#2475 Just got back from the SB3 Westerns in Galway. First time the fleet has been over there and it was a really really awesom event. Run out of the harbor. Couple of crane to lift us in and out and all the logistics planned and run properly. Great racing out in Galway Bay. Sponsorship from Captain Morgans (didn't manage to steel a poster though :( ) and McSwiggans Bar made for a great social. All in all a credit to every one involved and good vibe going into the event based of the work put in rewarded by a decent turn out. I understand that this was a bit of a dry run and the lads 'off the map' hope to expand the event next year. Any OD fleet committee members reading this, if this was anything to go by you'd be a fool not to get your fleet over there for an event. Sun, 22 Aug 2010 20:01:35 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2474#2474 thought you guys might enjoy this... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sxCwdLdlhes Sat, 21 Aug 2010 18:28:22 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2246&limit=6&limitstart=18#2473 Big Congrats to the Irish Team Made it look easy - enjoy the pints JK Sat, 21 Aug 2010 12:41:24 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2472#2472 Friday 27th August from 1 pm. Take a long lunch break and watch the action from the Samuel Beckett Bridge!!!! No lay lines.... Just walls!!!! Charity collection on the day is in aid of The Peter Mc Verry Trust. [URL=http://imgur.com/C8bO2.jpg][IMG]http://imgur.com/C8bO2.jpg[/IMG][/URL] Fri, 20 Aug 2010 23:47:54 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2246&limit=6&limitstart=18#2471 I have been in the past for being over-generous to competitors in redress cases against the RC. In this case, I do not believe that the facts found demonstrate that Rockall III's position was made sigbificantly worse through no fault of her own. Why was the crew of Rockall III apparently unaware of the change of course when the next boat to round Mark 2 1min 46 seconds later, was aware of the change? Only if some information was transmitted or displayed in that 1min 46 that allowed second boat not to follow Rockall would I consider redress. I suspect that whoever was on radio watch missed the RC's transmission an dhas found a clever way of shifting the blame. In any case I am not sure that it will make much difference. A bad place for Rockall would have made life easier for the Irish team, but hopefully this will not influence the overall result Gordon Fri, 20 Aug 2010 18:35:56 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2246&limit=6&limitstart=12#2470 As usual the Commodore's Cup throws up interesting decisions - not least the Jury's decision to overrule the NoR in regard to the penalty for Quokka. I suspect that the Irish are not appealing, but requesting redress from the decision of the IJ granting redress to Rockall. Why did it take Rockall 12 minutes to discover her mistake if Roxy rounded 1m 46s behind and headed for the next mark? Be good to see Garboard eating humble pie tomorrow when Ireland prevail despite attempts to prevent them from achieving their rightful place. Fri, 20 Aug 2010 16:15:30 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2246&limit=6&limitstart=12#2469 Team Ireland in middle of Round Island Race. Heading to St Catherine's Lighthouse. Antix in 1st in Class 1. Marinerscove.ie in 1st in Class 2 and Roxy in 4th in Class 3. Only need one more good race. Come on lads. Fri, 20 Aug 2010 13:45:07 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2246&limit=6&limitstart=12#2468 I bet you 50 quid Gordon will agree with the facts found by the jury. The RC where in complaince with the SIs but not the unamended section of the RRS right at the front before you even get to the cover page. There is an error by the RC, Rockalls position was made worse. The question is was Rockalls mistake through no fault of her own? Sure they didn't fly a class flag with the C. But Rockall should still have known that there was a course change for class 3. They missed a comunication, that was in complaince with the SIs, on what that was that all the other competitors cought. The jury has decided that the communication was so far in advance of the signal and the failure to display a class flag meant that Rockalls error was through no fault of their own. They knew how far ahead tehy where at mark 2, they knew how far behind at mark 3. So they added to 2 together to get how much time Rockall had lost on that leg and gave it her back. While we may not agree with the subjective element of the findings that's a valid interpretation of the rules and I recon the appeal (if one is even allowed given it's an international jury) will more than likely be dismissed. Fri, 20 Aug 2010 13:01:08 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2246&limit=6&limitstart=12#2467 Gordon Davies, we need you on this thread, now! Fri, 20 Aug 2010 12:39:24 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2246&limit=6&limitstart=12#2466 see pdf of jury decision re Rockall attached. Would be interested in any further views on merits of decision http://www.afloat.ie/images/fbfiles/files/2010Commodores_Cup__Protest_hearing_6.pdf RRS, caselaw etc. The decision has been appealed under RRS 62 [redress] and 66 [reopening a hearing] by Roxy and a number of other boats Very strong evidence will be called re the VHF transmissions relating to change of course and that relevant SI below was followed to the letter and that there was no confusion in VHF traffic 2.4. Change of Course RRS 33 is changed. The race committee during a race may change the course, or change the position of the next mark as appropriate, at any rounding mark. A Committee vessel stationed near the mark will fly flag ‘C’, make repetitive sound signals, and announce on VHF Ch. 72 the course to be sailed thereafter. The change of course may be notified at a rounding mark prior to the mark from which the change becomes effective. Yachts may without penalty request details or confirmation of a course change from “Ocean One” on VHF Ch. 72. As a result of a change of course, the course may be shortened or lengthened. The Committee vessel may also display the bearing of the next mark. Fri, 20 Aug 2010 11:58:51 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2246&limit=6&limitstart=12#2465 Continuing the analogy with the famous fat lady and her singing, might we suggest that she is starting, in a quiet way, to narrow down her choice of song. After another consistent team performance on the water yesterday, in terms of final results (1,3,1), the Irish had initially extended their lead. However, as Roxy 6's race has become the subject of a protest and subsequent appeal, the overall points situation appears to be in limbo. The RORC website shows that the points gap (at the moment) between the Irish and Hong Kong teams, in first and second respectively is 31.5pts with the French Yellow team a further 17.5 points adrift. Debutants in this year's event, the South Africans, with a number of Irish connections in their team, are in 7th overall. Key members of their team include Dave Hudson from Cape Town, a past Fireball campaigner and current very successful practitioner of Laser SB3 sailing and Rick Nankin, also a former Fireballer and a key member of North's Cape Town loft. Two members of their last America's Cup campaign are also onboard, Mark Sadler & Roy Dunster. The Irish connection is in Alex Voye and Sean McLaughlin, South Africans resident in Ireland. If this were an individual event, The Irish would be in 1st, 2nd and fifth with a Hong Kong boat, Rockall 3 and Inis Mor from France Yellow splitting the Irish. Looking at the individual race results from a team perspective it doesn't appear as though we have lost a race on the water yet. But in avoiding the trap of over-exuberance and quietly getting on with the job in hand the Irish team themselves will be the first to acknowledge both in terms of Solent vagaries and past experience of the event itself, the fat lady has to have her privacy respected. This is a no-discard event so one slip could be costly. Still, one has to admire the consistency of the performance thus far! Fri, 20 Aug 2010 10:15:11 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2246&limit=6&limitstart=6#2464 Re: Rockall 111 redress:It seems quite a bizarre situation that a boat seeking redress and being granted same should receive a first place finish as its redress. Surely either the race should be thrown out or the boat should have been given average points from its previous races. As the race had not finished who could say with certainty that the boat would have won. However, as I understand an appeal has been lodged by Ireland and others we will have to just and see. Are we in uncharted waters here? Fri, 20 Aug 2010 10:12:31 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=9&id=2461#2463 So are you all coming back for the Irish Team Racing Champs on 13th-14th November in Schull. Good chance to prepare for the Worlds. Well done: Gordon Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:03:20 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=24&id=2462#2462 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G39YJ13w6Cs It's Alex Bennett's promotional video of the Shetland Round Britain Race onboard the Class 40 Fujifilm. Some good North Sea waves! Thu, 19 Aug 2010 11:36:48 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=9&id=2461#2461 A TEAM of ex-pats from past Irish and UK world teams won the Melbourne Midwinter Team Racing Cup at the weekend. The Wild Geese sailing team migrated from Darwin and Sydney, to join the other half of the six-person squad in Melbourne, and flocked together to win the Melbourne Midwinter Team Racing Cup on August 14. The interstate team won the event with nine wins from twelve matches on the city’s Albert Park Lake. For second place, Sly Dogs, Monash Uni and the Brew Crew were locked in a three-way tie on seven wins each – finishing in that order on count back. Seven teams competed, including two from Queensland, with sailors ranging in age from very young to not so young. Forty-six races were sailed in reefed Pacer dinghies, with winds gusting up to 37 knots per hour on the short five-leg square course. Wild Geese: Paddy Oliver, Diane Nelson, Chris Kameen, Liz Kameen, Jeanti Eger and Conor Byrne. A DARWIN skipper from the Wild Geese team won the following day’s Pritchett Bucket for random pairs team sailing. Conor Byrne won all his six races, followed by Chris Kameen on four wins. Six helms turned out for six two-boat team matches each, swapping opposition and teammates for each race to get the best individual score. http://www.afloat.ie/images/fbfiles/images/22_sailing_melbourne.jpg Thu, 19 Aug 2010 01:57:27 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=6&id=2420#2460 North East Powerboat & Racing Club. The ISA National Powerboat Racing Championships will see its first ever visit to Ballyronan on Lough Neagh. North East Powerboat & Racing Club who are hosting this National Championship event, intends it to be the first of many races on Lough Neagh. Powerboat Racing is not new to Lough Neagh but after an absence of many years, this new vibrant club hopes to develop the sport into the future and encourages anyone interested to drop down and have a look. The club is open for membership. Sunday the 22nd August will see a number of classes in action. There will be a lot of Local interest in the T850 Vee hulls as the championship leaders are members of the local club. All the competitors in the P750’s Formula 2 & 4 will be plying for top honours to help advance their championship hopes. Full Race Instructions and entry form can bedownloaded from the ISA Website at http://www.sailing.ie/motorboat/inside/default.asp?pageId=915 http://www.afloat.ie/images/fbfiles/images/Ballyronan_F2_course.JPG Wed, 18 Aug 2010 15:37:39 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=20&id=2457#2457 The 2010 Fireball Nationals will be hosted by Baltimore Sailing Club over the last Friday/Saturday/Sunday of August. At the Class AGM in Dunmore East last year, potential venues were considered and on a show of hands Baltimore was given top seeding. 11 months on and the challenge to make the event meaningful in entry terms is our principal concern with 10 days to go. Entries to date are good as we are notoriously bad at entering early, but we are aware that some of our fleets need more encouragement to get numbers out. In previewing the event, the question will be whether anyone can mount a consistent challenge to this year's dominant combination Noel Butler and Shane McCarthy who have won each of the provincial regattas to date, the Open Championship in Killaloe, the Ulsters in East Down Yacht Club (Strangford Lough) and the Leinsters in Howth. There are candidates who are capable of beating these guys on the water but do they have the durability to do it over a nine race series in order to dislodge Butler/McCarthy from the top of the podium. Combinations that come to mind are Kenny Rumball & Dave Moran who have tatsed success on the Fireball scene but need to stamp more authority on the racing. As I write this piece I understand that another of the young "Turks", Simon McGrotty (Skerries) can't make the event which is a pity because with Ruairi Grimes he had an excellent Leinsters. A more seasoned combination is Damien Bracken and Brian O'Hara (Clontarf) who have the guile and talent to give Butler/McCarthy a run for their money, but need to avoid the gear failures that have thwarted recent regattas. Owen Laverty & Ed Butler are another combination who have the pedigree to get to the podium as does Andy Boyle of whom we haven't really seen enough of this season. Francis Rowan has been distracted recently by personal undertakings but on past record he will have an appropriately talented helm driving his boat in Baltimore and will also be keen to dislodge the season's pace-setters. Neil Colin and Margaret Casey don't draw attention to their exploits on the water but quietly get on with the job of ambushing their competition on the water to secure low-score finishes. A bit more susceptible to the weather conditions than other combinations, if they hit a purple patch, they will be looking for overall prizes. Frank Miller, sailing with Grattan Donnelly will also be knocking on the door. A notable absentee will be Louis Smyth, the class stalwart who continues to defy Father Time and remain a competitive forec in the fleet. I believe this will be the first Nationals for a very.....very long time that he has missed. With the Fireball Worlds scheduled for June next year, these Nationals will be an oportunity to claim bragging rights as the leading exponents of Fireball sailing in this country going into the Sligo event. Others who will want to cement advances in the fleet at the Nationals are Louise McKenna who has shown a significant turn of speed in the DBSC racing and got onto the podium at the Killaloe event. Stephen Oram had a very good Leinsters, so he too will be looking to continue his upward trend in the rankings. After an exceptionally good Leinsters with 30 boats on the water and some new youthful combinations sailing on the northside in borrowed boats, we have a new convert to the Class in Luke Malcolm. We are delighted to have Luke join us and look forward to this injection of youthful enthusiasm. Race Officer for Baltimore, David O'Brien, No, not the editor of Afloat, has vetted the regatta documentation, Baltimore are primed, all we need are the entries and the weather to make this an enjoyable and exciting event! See you there! Tue, 17 Aug 2010 23:20:48 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2246&limit=6&limitstart=6#2456 Latest visit (22:35) suggests that the Irish are still in a strong position overall with all three boats holding second place in their respective classes. With respect to the fat lady.....she hasn't even chosen her song sheet yet!!!!!!!!!! Tue, 17 Aug 2010 22:40:18 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=4&id=2455#2455 The 3 Irish Optimist Nationals got underway today in sunny Dunmore East. A total of 234 boats raced two races today. Conditions were ideal with light to moderate NW breezes, remaining steady for the day. Provisional results after 2 races: Senior: 1st Peter McCann, RCYC, 2nd Aran Hollowell, UK. Junior: 1st Daire Cournane, RCYC/KYC; 2nd Fergus Flood, HYC. Regatta: 1st Michael O'Suilleabhain, KYC, 2nd Amy Carroll. Tue, 17 Aug 2010 21:17:14 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2454#2454 A magnificent sailing vessel constructed in Arklow at Tyrrell’s Ship Yard in the 1930’s is to make a return journey to the town to mark its 73rd anniversary. ‘Maybird’ is now owned by avid sailor and businessman Darryl Hughes from Hampshire, UK who has just completed an intensive two year restoration programme to bring the 43’ ketch back to its original glory. Darryl is the latest in a long line of owners who have sailed Maybird, also known for a time as Maya, around the world from Cornwall to New Zealand and everywhere in between. The vessel was known as Maybird at the time of its first owner, Lt Col William Cotter Williamson Hawkes DSO in 1937 but by 1942 when acquired by Major Erskine Thackery Martin DSO its name was changed to Maya. As this it continued until 1979 when Robin McDiarmid from New Zealand, father-in-law of the present owner reverted back to the original Maybird title More about the beautiful boat here http://www.maybird.co.uk/ http://www.afloat.ie/images/fbfiles/images/flash.gif Tue, 17 Aug 2010 00:48:26 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2246&limit=6&limitstart=6#2453 Prediction is based on historical perspective that the party isn't over until the fat lady sings. In nautical terms the fat lady is the offshore race and any time Irish have been favourites from 1979 onward the offshore race has been the downfall. Maybe I got France yellow wrong but GBR Red represents greatest threat and Peter Rutter is almost at O'Leary standard. Revised prediction: GBR Red Ireland France Blue Tue, 17 Aug 2010 00:37:38 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2246&limit=6&limitstart=6#2452 G, would you like to revise that prediction at this early stage? http://www.afloat.ie/commodores-cup/item/13778-ireland-leads-by-205-points-after-day-two-of-the-commodores-cup/ Mon, 16 Aug 2010 16:26:08 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2450#2451 I can see your point of view and am sure it will be reflected across the board. On just one of the items, and I am open to correction, but as far as I am aware the Star is the one class where the crew is always identified and receives a medal along with the helm. Whenever you read reports on the Star class events the crew is always included. But then the Star is in a class of its own anyway, always has been and always will be. Have been following it for so many years, never fails to fascinate, the standard of sailing is mind boggling and even the name of the class is so apt. Please don't say I am biased!!! Mon, 16 Aug 2010 11:22:14 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2450#2450 I don't want to take away from Martin Byrne's achievement but his selection as Sailor of the Month for July brings into question a number of things: 1. Is it enough to win your nationals to achieve this? 2. If so, why don't multiple championship winners feature - in Dublin Bay Ruffian champion Derek Mitchell and Sigma 33 Champion Tim Goodbody are 2010 winners yet again and I am sure there are more around the country. 3. Why Martin and not his crew? - would it be not on to have non-nationals? What will happen in August when Peter O'Leary is under consideration - what about Fritz? 4. What about the stand-out results such as the Cork Week Boats of the Week - Mariners Cove and Errislannan? I suggest that you ask us forum heads to vote on a selection every month or at least nominate a slate. And please make a policy decision that all members of a team share in the award! Mon, 16 Aug 2010 08:14:23 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2449#2449 Just in from err, Justin.....The following report on the SB3 annual match on the river Liffey by Dublin Bay SB3 Class Captain Justin Burke Hello , The Liffey Race was run on Friday 13 by the Royal Alfred, nothing like tempting fate . On the 9th we had 3 boats confirmed and i was unsure the event would happen. But i must say that the Royal Alfred really turned it on and pulled out all the stops to make the event happen and not just happen but a really great event . The RAYC is a small tight group but they make it up with sheer effort and i would like to say a big thanks to the RAYC for a great well run event.   The event was won by the last years winner Sean Craig with 9 points . 2nd Stefan Hyde 11 points .3rd Emmet Local Boy Ryan  13 points. After that it was the snakes and ladders bunch with Marco Sorgassi representing Italy was 4th with 22 points . And a tie for 5th being broken in favour of Bill Reardon ,putting the Red Barron Martin Cuppage into 6th . I played the class captains part and made sure every was safely home and acted as tail end charlie with 26 points . I was very gald there was not more competitors as it would probably been even more embarrassing. By the way for all those that do not know about this event has the best sailing trophy around , no surprise why Sean C goes after it with the heavy weights. Also special thanks to Dublin Port for sponsorship and the quay wall that i hit . Pfizer ,no i am not going to make any comments on their products but to say "i'm told they work very well". And Poolbeg Yacht and Boat Club who welcomed us as neighbours, as we are . Just to round this off , i got on my boat in the National YC and ran aground inside the pontoon , got dragged off and ran aground  3 meter form the moorings and to cap it off ,well you have guessed it i ran aground inside the channel markers in Dublin port . At that stage i realised it was friday the 13th. I'm going to put the result down to Friday the 13 th as well , it's the best excuse i have come up with . Ah well there is always next year . See you all in the West . Justin   Sun, 15 Aug 2010 07:52:21 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2443#2448 Yes Blondie IV is sold and is going to Hong Kong..to the new owners..! I am sure that there will be a few new boats to fill the slots..! Sat, 14 Aug 2010 12:27:52 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2443#2447 Blondie IV sold and on it's way to Singapore post the RCC by the way. So they say. Fri, 13 Aug 2010 18:19:13 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2443#2446 Skipper, it makes for sad reading. Here is an article I posted recently on the subject of these boats. You may find some of it interesting: With three months to go to the 10th edition of the biennial Rolex Commodores’ Cup the international fleet has every prospect of being one of the more exotic in recent times. The headline foreign contingent is perhaps South Africa, participating at the regatta for the first time. Hong Kong has confirmed it will be back following its happy venture in 2008. Thereafter, the northern European teams – Ireland, France and the United Kingdom – that are the traditional backbone of the event – will be present in numbers. Once more the Hong Kong team will be led by Jamie McWilliam, a well known native of the Parish, but perhaps a more interesting twist to the series is the fact that The Hong Kong team will consist in its entirety of former well known and successful Irish boats. The team is made up of Rockall 111, a Corby 36 owned by Chris Opielok in the small boat slot. Rockall 111 is the former Rosie , which has a dominant history in Irish and UK racing. The middle boat is Blondie 1V a Mills (King) 40 chartered by Anthony Day from Helmuth Hennig, both very well known Hong Kong Racers. Blondie 1V was second in class in the Rolex Commodores’ Cup 2008 and has an exceptional track record under her former Irish owner. The big boat is Mandrake, Nick Burns’ Mills 40.5, formerly Ngoni and Tiamat. As Tiamat she had an outstanding Commodores’ Cup in 2006 also under her previous Irish owner. Meanwhile the Royal Cork Yacht Club has a strong team put together to compete in the 2010 event. Roxy 6 looks resplendent lying at the Club Marina and will be sailed by Andrew Creighton. Dave Dwyer’s Marinerscove.ie has performed exceptionally well in recent times. Anthony O’Leary’s Antix with her new CH Marine logo on her boom and her keel wrapped in polythene Americas Cup style looked formidable yesterday while having her hull polished in anticipation of the forthcoming Liebherr ICRA Nationals at Dun Laoghaire. Fri, 13 Aug 2010 16:50:11 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2443#2445 and Antix.... Fri, 13 Aug 2010 14:42:06 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2443#2444 Go the Glove! Fri, 13 Aug 2010 14:28:17 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=25&id=2443#2443 If Mariners is up for sale, http://www.yachtworld.com/boats/2006/Vision-Yachts-Mills-39-2234764/Cowes/United-Kingdom Jump Juice for sale, http://www.theyachtmarket.com/boats_for_sale/58775/ Blondie is sold (?) Checkmate sold Rosie gone to Germany ....what's left for the RCYC October league or for that matter big boat sailing next season? Hopefully, people will upgrade but..... Fri, 13 Aug 2010 12:12:06 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2442#2442 We're looking for stories about boats that had problems after last year's severe winter. Broken manifolds? Cracked pipes? What were the consequences? Lessons Learned? P'raps you'd share them here? Equally, what plans should we be making for this winter? http://www.afloat.ie/winterising-your-boat/ Fri, 13 Aug 2010 11:27:06 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2434&limit=6&limitstart=6#2441 solid 9th in the radials too offer it up for breeze on for 28 July – Saturday 11 2012 Fri, 13 Aug 2010 10:48:46 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2434#2440 how long is it since we've seen this? http://www.afloat.ie/images/fbfiles/images/leaderboard.jpg Thu, 12 Aug 2010 20:25:12 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2434#2439 Fritz Kileen, has a certain ring to it. Is he related to the Malahide or Galway Kileen's I wonder? Thu, 12 Aug 2010 17:20:17 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2434#2438 Why not simplify it and stick an i in - Kileen Thu, 12 Aug 2010 16:25:15 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2434#2437 Jack Charlton usually sorts out any pesky passport issues we may have. But here's a few ideas: Frithjof MacCleén Frithjof O'Cleen Frithjof NiCleen and my current favourite.... Frithjof MacClieéun Thu, 12 Aug 2010 16:06:24 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=3&id=2436#2436 [video type=youtube]mvYh0teIag4[video type=youtube]mvYh0teIag4[/video][/video] Thu, 12 Aug 2010 15:57:59 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2434#2435 I see that the passport office is back to normal now - I hope Fritz's granny has her papers in order Thu, 12 Aug 2010 15:31:54 +0100 http://www.afloat.ie/index.php?option=com_kunena&Itemid=10&func=view&catid=2&id=2434#2434 Isn't it such a tonic to see Ireland up the front of an Olympic fleet? Come on Peter! and Fritz.... Thu, 12 Aug 2010 15:25:43 +0100