Sailing at the Olympics
The sport of sailing has a long history of internal strife, which has led to the constant changing of its disciplines. The IOC and governing bodies of different countries make the decisions regarding what disciplines will be part of the regatta. In the last Olympics, there were 59 different categories, some of which were new.
Men’s heavyweight dinghy
The United States is looking to bolster its sailing team for the Olympics by securing a spot in the men’s heavyweight dinghy. The Finn class was first introduced at the 1952 Helsinki Games. In the Olympics in 2024, the Finn class will be replaced with mixed two-person keelboat crafts.
The Finn class has been deliberating over the Olympic slate. They are working on several Submissions for the November Conference in Bermuda, with the hope of adding events for both men and women. This would ensure that a wide diversity of athletes can take part. However, some events may not be appropriate for both the lightweight and heavyweight gender.
Mixed dinghy
A change to the Olympic sailing programme is on the cards. The Finn class will be replaced with a mixed offshore class. The IOC requested the change, and World Sailing agreed to the move. However, some had hoped that the Finn could be brought back. The reason for this change is that the Finn does not suit heavier male sailors.
The 470 is a two-person dinghy with a jib and main sails. The sailor is attached to the boat by a trapeze. Another dinghy class is the 49er/49erFX.
The Laser/Laser Radial uses the same hull as the Laser, but has a shorter lower mast section. It replaced the Europe class at the 2008 Athens Games.
Laser Radial dinghy
The Laser Radial dinghy is a one-man racing sailboat. Originally designed by Bruce Kirby in 1969, the Laser has contributed to the growth of sailing as a recreational activity. The Laser has a length of 4.23 meters and a mainsail area of 7.06 square meters. It is now a sub-class of the Laser.
The Laser Radial is the most popular sailing dinghy in the world and will be used in the Olympic Games in Rio. There will be 44 sailors competing in the Games, including Olympic medalists, world champions, and up and coming talents. A number of women will also compete in the Laser Radial, including some of the youngest competitors.
The Laser Radial dinghy is a smaller, lighter version of the Laser. The sail is 14 feet shorter and more maneuverable, making it ideal for women who wish to participate in the Olympics.
