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CIM adopts glassfibre classics
CIM, the rating system used for classic yachts in the Mediterranean, is breaking new ground by creating a class for boats launched between 1970 and 1984 – meaning for the first time glassfibre hulls will become eligible, writes Noel Gazzano.
Yachts of the composite and early glassfibre eras are eligible in some classic regattas worldwide, but most events accept only post-1970 yachts that are built in a Spirit of Tradition style or built to a vintage design. The cut-off date chosen by most regatta organisers has, until now, been mid-1970s at the latest.
The CIM decision marks a step change in the well-worn debate over what constitutes a classic yacht and it will change the visual nature of the spectacular Mediterranean circuit, by adding more modern hull forms.
The new class, called Classic IOR, will include one-of-a-kind and prototype sailboats launched between 1970 and 1984, in possession of an IOR certificate obtained within that timeframe, and ‘in perfect state of conservation’.
Details are being worked out and the class is being validated by CIM (Comité International de la Méditerranée du Yachting Classique) as an extension of the current handicap rule, known for the weighting it gives to ‘authenticity’.
The move was discussed in Rome on 4 February, during the event ‘È tempo di IOR’ (It’s the right time for IOR), organised by Vele Storiche Viareggio and AIVE-Associazione Italiana Vele d’Epoca (the Italian Classic Boat Association), following the presentation of the 2023 AIVE regatta calendar.
Yacht clubs and event organisers are already discussing the inclusion
