Currently we use the Texel / ISAF rule for determining the maximum length of the gennaker (spinnaker) pole on the F16's.



Although this is a good rule the wording can be regarded as needlessly complex and somebody proposed the following change in wording that would not change the meaning of the rule.



Current rule :



The genaker boom may not be longer than the longest distance between the

fixing point (like on mast or mastbeam) and the theoretical uttermost forward

end of the boat + 0,8 mtr.



Contrary to ISAF rule 64.2 it is allowed to fix the genaker boom to the forward beam.



The genaker boom shall be fixed and approximately on the longitudinal

centreline of the boat.





Proposed rule :



The length of the genaker boom may not be more than 3,5 meters with the horinzontal distance between the fixed end of the pole and the leading edge of the unrotated mast is considered to be part of the pole. (changed)



Contrary to ISAF rule 64.2 it is allowed to fix the genaker boom to the forward beam. (unchanged)



The genaker boom shall be fixed and sit approximately on the longitudinal centreline of the boat. (changed)







Reasons for this change :



-1- The new rule is easier to comprehend by non-mathematically skilled sailors (Youths ?) And it is far easier to check at regatta's.



-2- Also on the F16 platform the TEXEL / ISAF rule pretty much assigns 3,48 to 3,52 mtr. long poles to each different F16 design anyway. Why not set the average of these results as the limit.



-3- The main issue from the performance and equality point of view is the size of the slot between the mast and luff of the spinnaker anyway. The proposed rule modification makes this slot equal on all F16 designs independent of the individual placings of the mainbeam or issues like toe-in of hulls. Or even the fact that some grandfathered boats are less wide than allowed. In the old rule these would get an extra hit.



-4- It pretty standardizes the size of the poles and would open up the exchange of gear between brands.



-5- last but not least; The new rule is as good as equal to the Texel / ISAF rule in its final result; give or take an inch; who is going to mind ?





Okay guys your turn to shoot holes in this proposal or give your support for it.



Wouter