[Public-list] re: "let me race?"was another outboard discussion

[dickdurk at atlanticbb.net]

>The part of the one-design concept I don't get is why >some people think that
>rules should be set in stone and will never need to >change or be clarified
>over time.

It's pretty simple, really. The concept is sailing skill 
decides who wins the race, not who has the best equipment. 
There have been some changes in the A30 rules since I've 
taken notice (notably draft control in the Mainsail), but 
you are proposing removing a 430 odd lb. chunk of iron and 
replacing with a 75 lb. removable aluminum casting. What I 
don't get is why you don't see that as an unfair 
advantage.

>In the same way, the framers of the 
>American Constitution
> had no idea that they should include laws about software 
>patents, genetic
> engineering and other kinds of modern technological (and 
>legal) issues.

Ummm, the framers were interested in limiting the power of 
the Federal gov't; in that context laws about software 
etc. are unnecessary. Sorry (to the list) but my button 
got pushed on that one.

>In order for one
> design class rules and the boats they describe to remain 
>relevant and alive,
> they must be able to change with the times as well.

I understand your concern-declining participation in class 
starts, I don't believe forcing every potential racer to 
change the fundamental nature of the boat will solve that 
concern. I, myself, would love to see a lead keel and 
internal halyards. That is just not what the A30 one 
design is.

Michael Grosh
#220



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