GGMs sailing Standard Rig in World Masters

BACKGROUND

At the recent AGM of the NZ Laser Assn, it was decided to conduct a survey among Grand & Great Grand Masters throughout Australia & New Zealand, for the purpose of determining whether to submit a formal remit to the next meeting of the World Council.

REASON

For many years all Laser sailors over 65 years have had to compete in the radial rig at world and regional championships irrespective of their body weight.  This has meant that many heavier GGMs have become uncompetitive, disillusioned, and some have given up Lasers altogether. Some have taken the option of sailing “down” a division among the much younger Grand Masters, where they are again uncompetitive. Their chances of ever winning a cube again are gone, unless there is a championship in a wind range where racing is likely to be cancelled.

Over the years the matter has been brought up at the World Council on behalf of several competitors requesting a vote on the establishment of a division for Standard rig GGMs, or at least, a GGM division within the GM division if there are 5 or more GGMs. The remits have never been accepted, as the majority of the World Council did not want to encourage GGMs in Standard rigs because of safety issues.

Many of the heavier GGMs consider this is unfair and discriminatory. Adults who have been around 90kg all their lives don’t suddenly lose 10 - 20 kg when they turn 65. Older people are healthier and living longer now than in the past.

WHAT WE”D LIKE YOU TO DO

Please take a moment to email me at bobblakey@ihug.co.nz and answer “yes” or “no” to the following question:-

“Do you think that Great Grand Masters racing in standard rigs in the Grand Masters Division should qualify for awards and trophies if there are sufficient entries, as prescribed in ILCA By-Law 5 para 3 ?”

Please note that this survey does not intend to undermine the existing GGM radial fleet. It is being conducted purely to attempt to give senior sailors a democratic choice.

Thanks for your interest,

Bob Blakey,

Vice Chairman, Asia Pacific Region.