STEVE TUPPER HONORED

Steve, our BC Director of sailing, has just been awarded a medal in Copenhagen, for his years of service to ISAF. Steve has been a judge for the most of the biggest sailing events in the world. He has been at every Olympic Games for may years, and been a judge with the Whitbread Race and others. A couple of years ago he won the high honor of Rolex Sailor of the Year.

Personally ,I’m delighted to see him get some recognition. I owe a lot to Steve. I’ve known him since he was 12 years old, and he was a great help in my moving to Canada — sailing and in other ways. This is a partial retirement for Steve but he will be really retiring in about a year, and I’m sure we’ll hear a whole lot more at that time. (e.f.)

WHITBREAD VOLVO AROUND THE WORLD

Things are not really settled yet, but it seems generally understood that the Whitbread/Volvo 60’s will be replaced by the Volvo 70’s for the next race. They are to be two meters longer, and 12 meters taller, with huge increases in sail area. They will also have kanting keels. The results are a much “hotter boat” expected to get around the world 21 days faster than the 60’s. They should have some 500 mile days, which means an average over 21 knots with surges up into the 30’s! -- and all this with smaller crews.

COUTTS VS. BARTORELLI

The legal battle between Alenghi boss Bartorelli, and America’s Cup’s most successful skipper, Russell Coutts (Bartorelli says Coutts reneged on contract, Coutts says Bartorelli changed the deal), may take up to a year. It’s the time-clock, not the money that matters. The question is whether the Alenghi people can stall the legal decision long enough that Coutts can’t sail different boat against Alenghi.

F-1 SAIL TOURr

Another new concept. Starting next July, a new series made for television will be staged. This will be done in 18’ dinghies with 1200 sf. sail plans — part race part survival game. They will race in a variety of venues from Europe to Asia, and the teams will be racing for their countries. No race will be started in less than 17 knots of wind. The aim is to make a sailing entertainment.

GLLOBAL CHALLENGE

The 12 boats with amateur crews sailing around the world “backwards” is approaching Cape Horn with only 9 nm. separating first from last!.Entertainment to reach sailors and non-sailors alike.