Multihulls back in the Olympics, the America’s cup Where?

ISAF has provisionally voted to re-include a multihull in the Olympics. It might seem obvious to many of us that there should be multihull in the Olympics given the direction sailing seems to be heading. Even the America’s Cup will be in multihulls next time.

Where will be America’s Cup be held? It depends on which day you ask who. Naturally Larry Ellison cannot shun San Francisco. Is is really a good venue?

Valencia constructed at great cost a purpose built port and facilities. Who knows exactly what else had been promised.

Italy, have no firm plans but are prepared to act; afterall the challenger of record is Italian.

Finally, some words worth pondering from Paul Henderson:

Henderson said:

“Unfortunately.we have taken the fun out of the game and made it too

technical–too much emphasis on boat speed. Sailboats should be no more

expensive than the cost of a second car.and the time spent fixing them

should be one hour for every ten hours on the water. In my opinion it is the

pro’s desire to win at all cost without respect for the sport that has

caused our problems.”

Henderson felt boats should be:

– Gender-equal

– Last a long time

– Keep their value

– Be tactical – not technical

– No trapezes

– Heavy one-designs–not sensitive to crew weight

– Sails that last at least a season

– Sailmakers should not be allowed to use their own sails

Henderson felt races should be:

– Geared to new reality of two income family & need for quality family time

– Races start from front of YC not requiring 10-mile sail for upwind start

– Should race on week nights, leaving weekends free

Henderson said:

“We all seem to have forgotten what sailing is all about. It should be

fun–good racing, good food .and a drink at the yacht club. The best day you

can have in your life is two great races, back to the club to smile a lot,

rehash the races and join together with other sailors who will become your

lifelong friends.”

Published by

ws lirakis

a sailor who carries a camera

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