Star Class Honoring the Past, Leading the Future
First of all, I'd like to take this chance to officially congratulate Lars Grael as the incoming Star Class President. Lars will be an outstanding leader and face of the class. He is a world class sailor and has outstanding credentials as a leader of sports activities in Brazil. He understands the current situation of the class, and has some great ideas about how to meet the challenges ahead.
As I reflect on my time as class President, several milestones come to mind. I think we have improved communications with members, mostly due to the new office and presence of Barbara Vosbury as Executive Director. I am very grateful for the chance to work with her and Laura in their efforts to communicate with members.
Unfortunately, the Star was not chosen for the 2016 Olympics in Brazil. While this has been disappointing, and is a very shortsighted decision by ISAF, it may prove to have positive effects for the class. We are now increasing our efforts to promote participation by weekend sailors. Several of the recently approved resolutions are directed at reducing the cost of the boat and promoting younger sailors. The recently formed Long Range Planning Committee (LRPC) will continue to work hard to find ways to help the class grow.
I would like to thank all the officers and volunteers who worked hard for the Star Class over the past 10 years. In particular, Rick Burgess as chairman of the IGC has been very effective in that capacity, and is always willing to help in the boat park. He's also one of the best crews I've had the privilege of sailing.
Special Thanks also to John Koopman for the many hours he has spent on technical matters as Chief Measurer, to Melinda Berge for great work on our website, and Larry Whipple for spearheading our Long Range Planning Committee.
It is clear that the class is in a transition time. I know our new leadership group is more than capable of meeting the challenges ahead and enhancing our position as the class where the top sailors compete. I have always felt that improving participation in silver stars and super regional events (Bacardi Cup, Oktoberfest, etc) is a key to class strength. These are the events I have most enjoyed, and are the best chance to develop lifelong friendships all over the world.
As for me, I plan to continue to sail the boat I have loved for over 50 years. But most of all, I look forward to continuing the many friendships I have made in the course of sailing the Star.
Good sailing
Bill
