Star Class Honoring the Past, Leading the Future
An Open Letter to all Districts and Fleets from the Chair of the IGC, Tom Londrigan
Our Class is always looking for ways to grow our Class with the young sailors of the world. We
have U-30 events; helping young Star sailors is key to the mission of our Legacy Foundation,
and the Worlds at Kiel successfully demonstrated that individual and local support of young
sailors increases their participation.
Next year we celebrate the 100th Anniversary of our World Championships at Eastern Yacht Club
in Marblehead, Massachusetts. I have had countless conversations with Class members and the
consensus is that we can reach 100 boats both at this historic event AND at the next World
Championship in Scarlino, Italy.
To reach 100 boats, we need to encourage participation at all levels of our Class and actively
support our new young sailors. In Kiel, I witnessed several of these teams show up and finish
very well. After the last race, one of the young German skippers asked me about how he can
race the next World Championships. This is the type of engagement we are hoping for.
How did these young sailors get there? Many were allowed to use competitive boats and
equipment from generous members of our class. In addition, they participated in training
sessions to boost their skills and confidence. I want to challenge all of our Districts and fleets to
do the same.
First, identify a couple boats that are well equipped and competitive and are not heading to the
World Champs and ask the owners to participate (“the horses need to run”). I can think of five
great options in my District alone. Second, identify a team that is excited to race the Star at a
World Championship in Marblehead or Scarlino. Third, schedule training sessions for the team.
Fourth, help the team raise a little money.
I have discussed the issue with the Legacy Foundation, and they are willing to participate and
accept applications for “matching support” of money raised by a young team sponsored by a
Fleet or a District to attend the World Championship in Marblehead. This could be used for
sails, travel expenses etc… To start the process, please designate a District Secretary or Fleet
Captain who is willing to spearhead the task in each area, let ISCYRA and the Legacy
Foundation know and they can assist with the application.
The details and parameters of this process will be worked out in the coming months. But,
recruitment of boats and teams can start now. I have already started, my fleet has already
started, and our District has already started. I challenge all of us to step up and engage. Let the
horses run, grow our Class, and please come and celebrate our 100 Anniversary of the Star
World Championships with the next generation of racers.
