Mast Update From IMCA Technical Advisor David Chivers
There has been some confusion over what is and is not legal with regard to the fixed forestay.
All masts constructed after November 2008 must be fitted and used with the fixed forestay. This includes new masts supplied to old boats after a breakage. The builders had quite a few masts in stock when the new rule came into force but new supplies will have to have the fixed forestay.
The rule allows the old style mast to upgrade to the fixed forestay, but it does not allow a new mast to fit or use the old system.
There is a proposal at the AGM for it to be compulsory to use the fixed forestay at championships after a certain date to be fixed. If you have thoughts on this subject then please make sure that you discuss them with your national class association so that they can represent your countries views at the AGM.
D. Chivers
11th Oct 2009