19 August

Andrew,

I took my son, Dylan, down to Midmar to sail with Rob and Andrew Tarboton as well as Dave (did not get a Surname). Dylan has not yet had a full year on Oppies. He has of late sailed a Laser 1, and done some sailing (mainly crew) on a Sprog. He sails fairly well but his experience is limited. My own experience is also limited to a minimum of dingy sailing and a bit of keelboat sailing.

Our experiences this weekend were great. Due to 2 main items. Firstly Rob, Andrew and Dave were great. (I must thank them again). Secondly we both thought the 29er was great. Dylan both crewed and skippered. I crewed only with Dave. My first thought was as to the ease at which this boat is sailed. For Dylan to skipper with his limited experience it cant be that difficult to learn on. I flew a spinnaker for the first time in my life.

Dylan had about 1.5 hours on the water with Andrew on the Saturday. He was ecstatic when he came off. He then had about .5 hour with Rob on the Sunday. My feelings (for what they are worth) regarding the choice of youth boats reads as follows. ( please note I am very much a novice with some long term interest)

1. We need to look where the rest of the world is going. Not where it is today.

2. The youth of today is looking for an exciting boat.

3. The boat cannot be too complicated.

4. Dry Weight is important with regard to loading and off loading.

5. Original cost, Long term costs, Durability, Spares etc.

6. Enthusiasm from someone in the class to drive the class forward. (Rob seems to have this in abundance)

With my limited experience and very little knowledge of the what appears to be the main competition. (420 and Laser2) I feel that the 29er certainly needs to be looked at as it seems to meet most of the criteria above. We will be looking for a sail on a Laser 2 as soon as possible for a comparison. I believe that 420's are rather scarce in SA.

I will be following this debate with great interest.

Regards
Trevor Emmett