Hiking the Melges - The Situation Develops

The discussion about the style of hiking that has developed in the class has been ongoing both publicly and within the class. The Executive Committee has decided to lead the resolution of the discussions. It is intended to put forward for consideration a proposal to tighten the hiking lines following the feedback from Harry Melges after sailing in Santa Cruz. He tried the boat with taut hiking lines:

“We had two boats and we tightened the hiking lines so they were completely tight.

It was unanimous that everyone that sailed on either boat thought it was great. We had girls and guys sailing and everyone thought it was much better than hiking over the lines when they are loose.

With the tight lines you just press into them, you keep your butt on the deck and it is much more comfortable and civilized.”

Although the wording has not yet been finalized, the Executive Committee is intending to propose a rule change for consideration and voting at the AGM in August in Hyères. At present it is envisaged the new rule will cover:

• The lines will be tight.
• The crews’ body position will be tightly controlled.
• The feet when sitting on the side must not promote standing on the gunwale.
• The crew may not use the lines to propel the body away from or off the boat.

The Executive Committee is of course looking for more feedback and urges the National Class Associations to prepare themselves for the AGM. It is hoped others will try out ideas and hold trials to gather information. This will ensure that the rule, if it is voted through at the AGM, will be one which the class can adopt without problems.

David Chivers
IMCA Technical Advisor
May 11th 2006