IMCA TO PERMIT JIB ZIP LUFF/HALYARD LOCK RULE TRIAL

Following the recent IMCA World Council AGM and subsequent consultation with National Class Representatives the IMCA Executive Committee has confirmed that the proposed zip luff jib/halyard lock trial rule will come into effect on 1st January 2002. This means that zip luff jibs and halyard locks will be permitted at the forthcoming Melges 24 World Championship. The revised rule wording (and formal reason for proposed rule change) is as follows:

F.7.2.
The jib halyard shall be either secured to the tail of the highfield lever system, or where a zip luff jib is used the halyard may run internally in the zip luff and be secured by a locking system of optional design. In the latter system the jib luff wire (G.4.2.) shall be used as a forestay and secured in the normal way on the highfield lever. A swivel may be inserted between the jib halyard and the jib luff wire.

REASON

To allow an alternative system with a fixed forestay. This will allow the jib to be lowered at sea and also in the harbour without compromising the rig safety. This method of fitting will allow either system to be used and will not require expensive re-engineering of the mast.

Full details of all 2002 Rule Changes will be published immediately following their approval at the November ISAF Meetings.