BASIC MULTIHULL DNA
In 1962, the IYRU formulated 'box rules' for 4 International Catamaran Divisions; it approved amendments in 1963 and 1964.
This development-based framework produced the first International multihull classes - the Australis and the Tornado.
And 40 years later, the 'box rule' framework continues to dominate:
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The A-Catamaran is the pinnacle single-handed class |
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The Tornado is the definitive 'one design' B Class |
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The F-18 and F-16 are box rule classes |
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The M-20 is a 21st century B Class |
The box rule framework has shaped multihull development, racing, and culture in fundamental ways... many of which the IYRU did not anticipate.
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Expect Constant Innovation
Successful innovation achieves higher performance
But, it limits the competitive lifespan of older equipment
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Innovation Creates Synergies
Sailors drive innovation to get better boats
Better boats drive sailors to develop better sailing skills
The pinnacle competitions test the best skills and equipment |
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Share the Benefits, Control the Risks
Innovation benefits everyone, if everyone has access
Tornado developments flow quickly to many other classes
A-Catamaran designs are the source for F-18 designs |
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Accept Diversity, Support Multiclass Racing
Head to head racing in diverse equipment is normal
Multiclass handicap racing creates a broad community
Rating systems extend the lifespan of older equipment |
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Be Careful What You Wish For
A-Catamaran, F-18, B Class, etc. builders are not licensed
Anyone can build a boat... and change it without any notice
Equipment costs are always vulnerable to exuberant builders
Even the A-Catamaran class has added a few limits |
BASICALLY DIFFERENT
Multihull sailors think, train, and race across classes.
This is profoundly different than monohull sailing.
From Australia to Miami to Carnac to Texcel, multiclass events are commonplace, and often massive. Tornado and A-Catamaran champions often sail both boats; and often
participate in F18 events.
How many international regattas put the 470, 505, 49er, and I-14 on the same starting line? How many active Olympic 49er sailors also race in the Laser World
Championship?
None.
High performance multihull racing is fundamentally linked to continuously evolving equipment.
It forms a pyramid, with clearly recognized single-handed and double-handed pinnacles, that prove themselves on the water; and are well known to the sailors.
Even the Olympics is not immune. It is either the best and highest performance multihull event, or it isn't.
Since 1976, the Olympic multihull event has been the exact parallel of the Olympic downhill skiing event.
Both are the high performance pinnacle competitions in their sport; and pinnacle high performance events can never go backwards.
