March 2012 eNews AGM Minutes

Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron – Sydney, New South Wales, AUS

The meeting was called to order at 0845 by Chairman, Ian Kingsford Smith.

All were welcomed to the meeting. The members of the International Etchells Class Governing Council present were introduced: John Breen, Marco Cimarosti, Andrew Cooper, Jake Gunther, Dirk Kneulman, David Healey, Anatole Masfen, Peter McNeil, Tim Patton and David Ritchard.

1. Summary of the IGC meeting on February 18, 2012:

It was reported by Ian Kingsford Smith that the financial position of the association is stable with a small loss reported for 2011 due to the expense of the hull scan of the new AUS mold. The collection of membership fees and more efficient means of collection are a concern and continue to be addressed. An overhaul of the hull, spar and sail certificates are being worked on to attempt to move to an electronic system. The new e-newsletter has been well received and will continue.

2. Proposed Class Rules Updates

As a result of the report from the One Design Technical Committee, several rule changes were suggested to be put forth to the membership for a vote. These were presented to the AGM, and they were approved by those present at the meeting, so they will all be put to the entire membership in a ballot over the coming months

a. That in addition to the existing minimum diameter and length of the tow line, there be a maximum diameter of 13mm and a maximum length of 30m

b. That in addition to the existing minimum diameter and length of the anchor line, there be a maximum diameter of 11mm and a maximum length of 50m

c. Requirement that the tow line be of a floatable material and not pre-stretched

d. Permanent adoption of the current temporary ISAF 7/8 height measurement of 315mm minimum on jibs

e. Change to the current restriction about mast chocks to allow for the use of rams, levers and/or block and tackle arrangements.

3. Future World Championship venues were announced:

a. 2013 June – Tuscany ITA

b. 2014 June – Newport, Rhode Island, USA

c. 2015 November – Hong Kong

d. 2016 July/Aug/Sep – Weymouth, UK

e. 2017 Aug/Sep – San Francisco Yacht Club

No other business was noted. The meeting was adjourned at 0855.