While we first of all do concentrate on trying to convince active regatta sailors to join the field of 5.5m Modern boats and buy one, some hopefully engaging in getting new ones built, the class is also made up by many sailors, who put a lot of efforts into having one of the former racers rebuilt and brought back to the race track.
Today I would like to mention two of them, who have recently relaunched their beauties, giving them a platform to exhibit their work done:
5.5 ITA 59 "Arunga III"
Owner: Riccardo Gariboldi
This 1970's multiple champion boat (former KA-31, Z-128) had been going through difficult times in recent years, until Riccardo engaged in getting the boat back to shape & shine, most of the work being excellently done by himself. She is now again ready to race and on offer, as Riccardo plans to move from wood to GRP. If not sold in summer, we do hope to see the boat racing again, during the Italian Open and Copa Serbelloni, both in September, on the Lago di Como.
5.5 GER 74 "Traumfänger"
Owner: Hans-Joachim Franzen
This sisterboat to the 1986 World Champion Warren Muir design "John B VII", had been sailing in Norway (NOR 44) and then in The Netherlands, where already significant work had been done. After arrival in Germany Jochen Franzen encountered a problem zone in the hull, which needed considerable exchange of wood. Once in the mood, he added a new teak deck and varnishing of the hull as well as quite a bit of deck equipment. Finally he presented the boat during the German Open, not far away from the front ranks.
I have explicitely mentioned two Evolution boats, as this category represents the perfect entry level into the class. Given the load of currently unused boats, this category will make it easiest to achieve regional class growth in short term, as long as we stay in contact with current owners and assist passing the boats into the right hands.
Coming back to the Modern boats, which are vital to our International racing scenery, some of the boats built in recent years are on offer and the International Class will be pleased to pass on further information. The reaction to new designs for new boats offered during winter time, has regretfully been rather cautious. Here I would like to invite all owners, crew and friends of the class to encourage potential sailor candidates, to consider a variety of designs as one of the beauty elements of our construction class.
Thank you for your support!
