New boat in build for Spring delivery
MELGES IC37 UK updates
New boat in build for Spring delivery
Well known Solent yachtsman and Rear Commodore at the Royal Yacht Squadron, Bertie Bicket has announced that his latest “FARGO”, is to be a new IC37. She is currently under construction at builders Fibre Mechanics in Lymington and delivery is slated for Spring this year.
Speaking from Auckland Bertie comments; “After a lot of searching and evaluation of what’s out there, the IC37 simply ticked more boxes than anything else on the market. At the smaller end of the scale there are options, but I didn’t want a big dinghy and was looking for a proper race boat, that could handle tough Solent days out and maybe also go offshore, so ultimately these boats were head and shoulders above others. Also, having competed in the New York Yacht Club Invitational Regatta in 2019 I know just how much fun these boats are and to have a growing International One Design class to compete in makes the IC37 a compelling proposition.
With additional endorsement from the NYYC, who were the brains behind the IC37 concept, securing another UK boat will prove a great steppingstone for the development of this class over the coming years in the UK and we all know that One Design boats, which have a second life in handicap racing, are here to stay.
Bicket comments; “Having studied the on-board systems and ethos of the design, it is a substantially cheaper option in terms of running budgets and bang for buck, so we’re incredibly excited to get back out there and hope a few more boats might join for some close level rating sailing”
Fargo and her crew of “Solent Legends” are expected to put on a good show with their new and optimised steed.
Reflecting on feedback from existing and would be owners, the 2021 season will see some changes to the UK class.
The success of ICY – owned by Ian Atkins, a veteran One-Design campaigner around the Solent – in its first year while racing under IRC has ensured interest in the IC37 continues to be strong. To encourage that interest the IC37 will race with an IRC orientated sail wardrobe as well as couple of other changes to increase its IRC competitiveness.
Despite only racing in the One Design format (Main, 1 Jib and 1 Spinnaker) last season, ICY proved to be very competitive, winning 3 regattas out of the 4 she took part in. This year IC37’s will be racing with an IRC orientated sail wardrobe , amongst changes to the original spec and will see yet further and significant increase in IRC performance.
It is extremely exciting to see, at last, a mid-sized race boat which is not only exciting to sail, but cost effective and very competitive under IRC.
Another significant move will see class limitations on crew being removed for non OD events.
Because these changes are easily unwound owners can still participate in one design events, both locally as well as internationally as and when they wish – great for international competition as well as resale values and class sustainability.
Editor’s note – Obviously it has been a tricky time to start building a new class here in the UK, however with the these changes and the fundamentals that make the IC37 the ideal race boat for the UK we can see a bright future for the class. Having Ian and Bert, both long term, highly regarded and very experienced owners buying boats demonstrates how strong the argument is for the IC37.
Joining the Class, Test sails and buying a new boat
- Where can I see one? – Interested in seeing for yourself – ICY is being prepared and as soon as restrictions allow – we would be delighted to demonstrate the wonders of the IC37. Give us a call.
- Delivery Dates? – Fibre Mechanics, our local builder can still deliver in time for this seasons yachting.
- Funding and finance? – Want to keep your own cash working for you ? Ancasta has some very efficient funding packages for new buyers – call to find out what can be done.
Ancasta Race Boats
Sam Pearson [email protected]
Tel: +44 (0)7759 424900