By John Butine, ISCA Chief Measurer

Vol 1

As your chief measurer, I am often asked the question “what rules violations do you see the most at events?” That is a great question, and I think the answers will help sailors look at their own boat in a different light, making sure that their rigging is within the rules. This has prompted me to do a series of articles for the Windward Leg titled:  Does My Boat Measure Up?

In this first installment, I will share one of the more recent rule changes and the item that is questioned at each major event. Amanda Callahan approached me at the World Championships in Coconut Grove in early December and simply said thank you! She continued to say that the 2:1 mainsheet rule change was the best change the class has made and it is simply a ‘game changer.’  She noted that at the Pan Am games in Chile that many of the sailors, both men and women, were using the 2:1 mainsheet set-up in the heavy air. Rule 3.7.1 has been modified to allow for the additional purchase in the mainsheet. The rule does specifically call out the two blocks that are allowed, the Racelite dinghy or swivel eye block and Nautos 28mm block, either fixed or swivel. Sailors that show up to an event with a Harken or a Ronstan block in this position will find themselves changing it out.

Congratulations to four Youth Scholarship Recipients – Jonathan Clubbs, Jackson Timberlake, Dylan Barbour and Wesley Barbour! For more information on the Youth Scholarship Application, please click on the button below. 

The Atlanta Yacht Club is abuzz with excitement as Fleet # 752 sets anchor. Its initial five members are women sailors (pictured from left to right Kim Murphy, Ellen McNeel, Dolores Henriquez, Christine England, and Anne Thompson).

Fleet # 752 embodies the core principles of sailing, camaraderie, and stewardship. "We aim to create a welcoming environment where everyone, regardless of experience, can learn and grow together. Our dedication is to sailing, learning, and teaching. The fleet stands as a testament to the growing presence of women in sailing. We are proud to have such a strong contingent of women sailors in our fleet. They bring a unique perspective and energy that enriches our community," says Dolores Henriquez, founder and fleet captain. 

 Fleet 752 is planning a series of activities for its members from fleet racing, relaxing sip and sail events, sailabouts and a sunset sail or two.  There is something for everyone. Additionally, the fleet will host teaching clinics focusing on rigging and sailing techniques, ensuring that members are well-equipped to navigate the waters with confidence. 

As Fleet 752 embarks on this new journey, they remain committed to being good stewards of the Atlanta Yacht Club. Through our dedication to sailing, learning, and teaching we encourage anyone interested in fun and  good fellowship to join us. For more information about Fleet # 752, please contact Dolores at doloreshenriquez@bellsouth.net

A sailing event you must put on your bucket list
  if you haven’t yet sailed in the historical and fun event! 
  Registration will open April 1, and registration will be limited. See you on the bay!  Beth Fleisher,  Race Committee Chair, Southold Yacht Club

September 7-8, 2024

hosted by the Dinghy Shop, Amityville, NY – To be sailed on South Bay

The Dinghy Shop is proud to host the 2024 Sunfish Women’s North American Championships. We encourage local sailors to join in this great regatta which will be hosted right in your own backyard. This race is open to sailors of all ages. CLICK HERE FOR INFORMATION

All the women who have sailed in a Women’s North Americans agree that is the most fun event ever! What makes this event even more special is awarding the Linda Tillman Sunfish Women’s North American trophy for the top finisher. 

Recognizing those who have made a difference in so many of our lives and have dedicated energy and enthusiasm to help advance the Sunfish Class … well, this is a treasured moment when we can honor Linda Tillman, a very special someone who sails with us in our hearts now and forever. 

• March 16-19 - CLICK HERE - INTL Masters WQ - (must be 40 years of age or older)
• March 20 - CLICK HERE - TEAM RACING Open 3 sailors per team
• March 21-23 - CLICK HERE- US Nationals @ Midwinters WQ

All races will be sailed at the Davis Island Yacht Club (DIYC) in Tampa, FL. DIYC is an awesome sailing venue with event committees that LOVE hosting Sunfish events!

The 26th Annual Fall Series was another success with a total of 35 sailors racing over 6 weeks. This year featured a wide range of conditions from hot and light wind to cold and gusts into the high 30’s. There was also a range of sailor experience on the race course with some racing for the first time and others who were seasoned sailors. In the end, it was a great showing from everyone and while finishes were close at times, it was fun for all.

Join/Renew today so that you don't miss out on all the USSCA updates and regatta news. Class membership offers several great opportunities.

• Participate in Class-organized sailing events, Full Calendar  
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• Current ISCA Class Rules 
• Maintain your Sail Number for local or national level racing. Sail Number Details 
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• Go to www.sunfishclass.org for more information. 

If you have any questions about the class or problems with the renewal process, please reach out to the class administrator for assistance. 

Thank you for supporting the Class. 

Go to www.sunfishclass.org to join or renew for 2024!