INTERNATIONAL ETCHELLS CLASS ASSOCIATION NEWS LIST NEWS ARTICLE Dec 15, 2003 - Hull Fairing You may have heard recently, some rumors and accusations in regard to keel alterations to some of the most competitive Etchells around. In a very short space in time a number of things have happened. First, the nature of this kind of alteration was discussed by the One Design Technical Committee and unanimously deemed illegal. Next, legal (RRS) advice was sought as to whether or not action could or should be taken. The advice was not to bring action without the clearest evidence of wrongdoing. This evidence does not, at this time, exist. An affidavit was sought from the persons involved and received, in which it is clearly stated that there was no intention to break the Class rules. It seems clear that there has been some misunderstanding of the One Design Rules as written. This is hereby clarified in the loudest of terms: „« Any sanding or fairing of any part of the hull other than to repair local surface imperfections is illegal. „« Any boat that has had alterations other than as is permitted in the One Design Rules may not compete in any races until it is brought back to its correct shape or configuration. „« All boat owners are reminded that it is their responsibility to ensure that their boats fall within the Class Rules. „« Further they are reminded that they must read and understand that One Design Rules 1 & 2 supersede any loopholes that they may perceive may not be covered in the writing of these rules. This incident reinforces the strength of our Class Rules and clearly sends the message that any contravention of these Rules will not be tolerated. All the best, Tim by Tim Patton, Chairman I.E.C.A. Back To Top Of Page Site © Copyright 2002. International Etchells Class Association Inc. All Rights Reserved.