UK IC37 Class gathering momentum
by Susannah Hart 8 Aug 2019 10:45 BST
IC37 fleet sailing © IC37 Class Association
The recently formed UK IC37 Class Association announces that it has received its first commitment from a UK owner as the One Design circuit being created for 2020 takes shape.
Ian Atkins, a well-known Solent based yachtsman, has committed to the first UK based boat. Ian also takes on the important role of Chair for the new class association, leading an owners committee, dedicated to spearheading the growth of the UK fleet.
Ian comments: "I have raced sailboats for many years under various handicap rules - IOR, CHS, IRC - but the most fun and excitement was always in One Design. Since the days of the Ton Cups, One Design racing has always attracted the top sailors.
"Having owned a number of smaller One Designs - Cork 1720, J80, J70, - it was hard to see any obvious boat to progress into - so I went motor boat cruising for a few years. Having followed IC37 developments across the pond, and now having had the chance to sail the first UK boat, it's clear that this is a great design that can re-ignite OD racing in the UK."
The UK IC37 Class has already finalised five key events in its calendar for 2020 and is planning more with the support of two of the UK's leading yacht clubs. Detailed discussions with a number of potential new owners is well under way, and delivery slots are available for Spring 2020.
The first UK based IC37 will be berthed in Cowes Yacht Haven for the duration of Cowes Week and interested parties are invited to take a look around the boat and discuss ideas with fellow potential owners.
Building on the concept and success of this Mark Mills design, the IC37 Class is looking to build on the foundations that are already in place, with the programmes led by the New York Yacht Club in the USA, by bringing regattas to the European and, specifically, the UK stage.
The thought process for the IC37 was always to put the power back into the hands of the Corinthian owner and amateur team, by moving away from the high budget, high stress classes that are operating on the world stage. These classes often leave a substantial gap in the market for those sailors that are just looking for fun sailing, with potent performance and, most importantly, ease of use.
Find more information on the Melges IC37 Class and the IC37 at www.melgesic37class.com and ancasta.com/boats-for-sale/new-boats/melges/ic/ic37