COMPETITOR ANNOUNCEMENT NO. 4: USM24CA Technical Chairman Notes

Attention Melges 24 U.S. Nationals Competitors: 

First and foremost, please be sure to read and review the current Melges 24 Class Rules in advance of the Championship:
Melges 24 Class Rules
Rule Change Summary as of March 25, 2019

BOW NUMBERS
Since February 2018 - The Melges 24 has moved to a permanent bow numbering system. All Melges 24s racing at Nationals shall have class approved bow numbers according to the IM24CA Rules:http://melges24.com/news/melges-24-class-rules-published-world-sailing 

To order your bow numbers, visit this link:https://usmelges24.com/faq

Please be aware if you DO NOT have the proper bow numbers installed, you will not be permitted to race.

HIKING
The Melges 24 Class allows a particular type of sailing method by hiking the boat against the hiking lines. However, it is expected that the crew remain inside the lines at all times. This includes the push-pits at the stern and the gate connecting them. There is nothing in the rules that allows crew to step outside these lines whilst sailing and it is therefore prohibited.

It should also be noted that Rule C.10.4 is very clear regarding the helmsperson and how they may sit. They shall not sit in any way that projects the body below the waist outside the sheerline. Nor shall they use any fitting or device to hike from – this includes mainsheet system and backstay adjusters. Helmspersons should not be seen with the feet or legs under or around any system in the boat.

HIKING LINES / LIFE LINES
Melges 24 Class Rule C.7.2.a.5 changes the trim of the top of the Hiking Line to 100mm from the deck, pushing hard on it: how much is "pushing hard", how many kgs? First: "the hiking line shall be tight at all times" which means NO slack, and the use of shock chord to reduce the slack is not admitted, and second: "The distance between the top of the bearing point of the lifeline straps and the deck shall be no closer than 10 cm when a 20 kg load is placed at mid-span" - it should be clear enough and means it will be controlled with a 20kg load.

BOWSPRIT
This is covered under Melges 24 Class rules C.10.1, C.10.2 and C.10.3.

It is really very simple; the first opportunity you have to pull out the bowsprit is when the bow has passed the windward mark. However, you cannot do this unless you are also hoisting the spinnaker. If the leg to the spreader mark is too tight to carry a spinnaker then you cannot sail with the bowsprit out – you will be penalised. Pulling the tack of the spinnaker out a little and then waiting is not allowed. You must wait until you hoist the spinnaker before pulling the bowsprit out. One operation – not two!

The easy way to remember is: NO SPINNAKER - NO BOWSPRIT!

At the leeward mark, the rule is a little more flexible, but you must retract the pole as soon as you can. Judges are instructed to watch the crews not the bowsprit. If a crewmember is struggling to clear the spinnaker then a little more time will be given. If it is cleared away with the crew on the rail and the bowsprit still out – expect a penalty!

EQUIPMENT
Please be sure to read and review Melges 24 Class Rule C.5. In particular, please note:
(a) MANDATORY 
(1) One functioning outboard engine and bracket:

- 2 stroke minimum nominal power – 2kW (3hp)

- 4 stroke minimum nominal power - 1.46kW (2hp)
- Electric outboard of minimum power 1kW output wattage 
- Minimum engine weight empty of fuel – 12.5kg 

OUTSIDE ASSISTANCE - COACH AND SUPPORT BOATS
• No coach boat or support boat shall pass information in any way to a boat that is racing. See RRS 41. Infringements of this will be taken very seriously.
• All Melges 24 boats shall proceed to the racing area under their own power.
• There shall be no transfer of any goods or equipment between Melges 24’s and their coach or support boats until after the finish of the last race of the day.
Read to full and complete document here.