Change in the Flying Fifteen: potential new rig tested

Potential new Flying Fifteen rig testing © Flying Fifteen Class Association

Potential new Flying Fifteen rig testing © Flying Fifteen Class Association

A review of the Flying Fifteen Class by the Technical Committee of the Association recommended changing the rig towards a higher aspect ratio genoa with a shorter foot and a mainsail with a bigger roach and shorter foot. The brief for this development was to improve boat handling, gust responsiveness and to maintain boat speed performance; there should be no increase in the overall sail area of the mainsail and genoa. Such changes would allow the boat to retain its excellent performance but make it more appealing to a broader range of sailors, particularly of lighter weight at Club and Championship level. After some preliminary trials during the recent World Championships in Australia, Flying Fifteen International asked the British Association to pursue the matter.

The first formal trial weekend was very efficiently organized over the weekend of 4th and 5th of April by the Datchet Water fifteen fleet led by Fleet Captain Phil Tinsley.

Eight boats took part. Four retained the conventional rig and four were equipped with new rigs from Batt Sails, Pinnell and Bax and Goacher Sails (Mark 1&2). The jibs were all in Dacron as was the Batt mainsail which also featured a full length foot. The Bax and Goacher mainsails were constructed of Mylar and had a shorter foot than the conventional rig with the upper batten full length. No change was made to the mast or any other fitting in the boat.

Three boats also had a new and larger spinnaker to test which was larger, had fuller shoulders and used a longer pole.

The crews, of combined weight varying from 21 to 31 stones, raced each other over short courses and changed between the boats during the weekend providing a continuous comparison between old and new. The wind ranged from very light to a steady 10 knots with gusts up to 18. Participating were three World and National Champions and helmsmen from the upper part of the National fleet.

In the stronger winds the new spinnaker was found by some to be too big. Any change is likely to be in the shape rather than the area. The jib and mainsail, on the other hand, performed well. In particular, the gust response was good and no performance was lost. These initial designs will be modified into a further set of trial sails which will be distributed widely for additional evaluation nationally and internationally. If the objectives of the development are met the class will seek ratification for use in 2011.