Background and Presidents Report to the Class 40 Association, Marseilles, Jan 2010

Class 40 currently presents a very credible alternative for sailors wishing to participate in competitive offshore racing on a global basis.

The Class has surprised everyone with its rapid growth and today is recognised by the offshore racing fraternity, be they competitors, race organisers, national authorities or the press as a real presence.

The Class is sought out by many sailors as they see it as a breath of fresh air, stressing the core values of adventure, camaraderie, competition, sportsmanship, and pleasure.

Observers see the potential for more exciting developments.

At this point in time Class 40 holds an enviable position in the offshore racing scene.

A few facts and figures from 2009:

Our Fleet:

In 2008: 79 boats in 18 countries.
In 2009: 91 boats in 22 countries.

New countries: New Caledonia, Finland, South Africa, San Marino, Poland, Bulgaria.

12 new boats: France (5) Italy (1) Finland (1) USA (1) Belgium (1) GB (1) San Marino (1) Bulgaria (1)

Members:

128 in 18 countries France: 75 Norway: 1 USA: 6 Finland: 2 Great Britain: 20 San Marino: 1 Italy: 8 Australia: 2 Spain: 2 Chile: 2 Germany: 3 Holland: 1 Belgium: 2 Ireland: 1 Switzerland: 1 New Caledonia: 1

Our event winners:

World Championship - Ned Collier Wakefield, Concise
Grand Prix Petit Navire - Giovanni Soldini
Transmanche - Giovanni Soldini
Record SNSM - Bruno Jourdren
Les Sables - Horta Giovanni Soldini
Rolex Fastnet Race - Tanguy de Lamotte
1000 milles Brittany Ferries - Bruno Jourdren
Trophée du Morbihan - Peter Harding
Solidaire du Chocolat - Tanguy de Lamotte

Conclusion:

There you have the summary of 2009. I would like to congratulate and thank the Executive Committee for having worked intelligently and investing a lot of time and energy. What is reassuring is that we are not separating for good, and our nautical challenges will soon bring us back together.

Jacques Fournier
President