| The Star has evolved into
the consummate craft for all ranges of competition and performance
sailing: its equipment and rig is simple enough for the novice, yet
versatile enough for those on the forefront of sailing. It's large,
powerful sailplan, combined with a sleek hull and light weight,
propel the boat in the faintest of airs, while the flexible spar can
be tuned to "de-power" when the breeze kicks up. The large
main is infinitely adjustable, allowing the sailor to completely
control the driving surface of the sail. Starts today are generally
constructed of fiberglass, with positive flotation and an integrated
keel. The design, sails, and equipment of the Star are governed by
stringent class rules, created to improve competition on the basis
of skill and control cost . This has also served to help the
longevity of the design, keeping older boats competitive through
careful evolution.
Stars are generally
"dry-sailed", that is, stored on their trailers when not
in use, and with a total weight around 1500 lbs, can easily be towed
from place to place.
Many of the world's top sailors past
and present have been involved in the Star Class. It's list of
former World Champions reads like Who's Who of yachting: other top
sailors such as Colin Beashel, John Kostecki, Mats Johansson, Hans
Vogt, Benny Anderson, Rod Davis and Mark Reynolds are also involved
in the Star class. But the class is made up of a variety of sailors
of all ages and skill levels. One race on a Star has hooked some
sailors for life: they'll tell you: It's a thrill.
Star: Art and Machine
The Star has practiced a philosophy
of design evolution over its 80 year lifetime. Always staying at the
forefront of sailing technology, the Star maintains a conservative
balance aimed at keeping the level of competition high, holding
costs in check and preserving the initial spirit of this great
yacht. The priorities of safety and practicality have ruled most of
the changes made over the years. This control over development of
the class has kept boats that would have been retired at their age
in other classes racing well into their golden years. Some of the
features that can be found on today's Starboat are:
Adjustable Jib Leads
The four-way action of the deck-mounted jib leads allow you to carve
the shape of the sail, keeping a good shape to match changing
conditions.
Hiking Vest
A simple harness allows the crew to get his or her weight out of the
boat more efficiently. Made legal by class rules in 1981, the vest
must be equipped with a quick-release to ensure safe exit in an
emergency. The vest eliminates alot of the exertion and gymnastics
traditionally associated with extended periods of hiking.
Suction Bailers
Developed by Star sailor Duarte Bellow, sailors quickly discovered
that several strategically placed bailers can quickly and safely
drain any excess water in the cockpit Most Stars generally have 4,
two in the center of the cockpit, and two located near the chines.
Circular Boom Vang
Also developed by Duarte Bellow for Stars, this innovation reached
popularity in the 1960's, having proven to be a safe and efficient
way to control the high loads of the long boom. This development
later spread to other classes, among the 12-meters of America's Cup
fame.
Whisker Pole
The simple sailplan utilizes a whisker pole to sail wing-on-wing off
the wind, thus making the most of the generous sail area.
Class Sail Measurement
The ISCYRA measures every sail to ensure fair competition: the rules
do not allow the exotic materials that drive up cost and cut the
lifetime of other racing sails
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