A selection of 8 applications from naval architects and builders
Launched in April 2021, the Class 30 aims to create a new model of one-design sailboat for the training of crew members and skippers in ocean racing, as we mentioned at the time . The process launched by the Union Nationale pour la Course au Large (UNCL) and the Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC) has reached a new stage. 25 applications, from 9 nationalities, have been submitted in response to the call for bids to design and build the new yacht. Although the names of the candidates, naval architects and construction yards, have not been made public, apart from that of Michel Desjoyeaux's CT Mer Forte, Yves Ginoux, a member of the jury, has clarified certain elements. " There were some very good applications. At the beginning, we had defined with the RORC a maximum of 50% French in the selected candidates. We received 14 applications. In the end, we retained 4 French and 4 international applications. "
The selection was based on objective criteria and on the jury's feelings. " We had a scoring grid of 10 weighted criteria, based on the understanding of the challenges of the class, the consideration of eco-design, the simple and fun side of the boat, the ability of the candidates to design and provide industrial solutions, the innovations presented. The 10th criterion was a favorite note. The 8 selected were those that came out on top after 2 and a half hours of meetings. There were 6 new boat projects, one existing and one in the process of being launched. The last two are interesting because they give a reference of the existing boats. They are close to the specifications, but must make efforts on the economic level, especially for the club version "summarizes Yves Ginoux.
Internationalization and financing of the boat class
UNCL and RORC also announced the addition of the Storm Trysail Club, a major American offshore racing club present at 12 resorts on the East Coast of the USA, to the committee. " This is important because they have a large fleet and the means to buy boats. It is a recognized club which organizes the Bermuda race in particular "says the UNCL elected official.
In addition to the selection of the eight applicants, the teams that will be selected in mid-June to work on a detailed application, the clubs will be looking at the economic aspect of the Class 30 project. " We will work on the financing to help the clubs to buy the boats in this complicated context "concludes Yves Ginoux.
