From the welcoming notices outside the club through the magnificent food and drink during the regatta and the quick and accurate race management, it was a great event.

We even had an interstate team from Canberra hot off winning the NSW state titles the weekend before to keep us honest.  Unfortunately they found us out, and went on to win the regatta comfortably.  Well done Noah Taylor and Chris Reed! 

Check out the full results here!

This years divisional champions here!

Photos by 

Andy Vukosav
www.cessnacam.com

Check out event page here!

AGM NOTICE                                 AGM PROXY FORM 

The 50th Australian Tasar Championship was held at the Mandurah Offshore Fishing and Sailing Club (MOFSC) in Western Australia in January 2025, celebrating a half-century of competitive Tasar sailing. The event drew a talented fleet of sailors from across the country, with the picturesque backdrop of Mandurah and the club's exceptional race management contributing to a truly memorable regatta.

A Family Affair in the Top 20

This year's championship showcased the unique family-oriented spirit of Tasar sailing, with father-daughter combinations dominating the top twenty standings. Among them was the youngest competitor, Naomi Taylor, crewing for her father Ian aboard 'Sweet Potayto'. The duo delivered an impressive performance, winning three out of the ten races and showcasing a combination of skill, resilience, and teamwork.

Consistency across the series ultimately determined the final standings, with Craig McPhee and Wayne Hale from South Australia securing the championship title aboard Roll Your Own (sail number 2857). Their exceptional sailing, including multiple race wins, ensured they held off a competitive field.

Western Australia's own David Meehan and Rhyss Edwards took second place aboard Critical Path (2938), while the Victorian team of Heather Macfarlane and Chris Payne, on WAC (2969), claimed third. The family-focused camaraderie and high level of competition were evident throughout the event, with sailors demonstrating both sportsmanship and skill across all conditions.

A Spectacular Venue

Mandurah's reliable sea breezes and stunning coastal scenery proved an ideal setting for the milestone event. Multiple Olympic Gold Medalist Mat Wearn hailed Mandurah as his favourite sailing venue in the Southern Hemisphere, a testament to the venue's world-class conditions. He also expressed his enthusiasm for Lago di Garda, Italy-the host location for the 2025 Tasar World Championships-which he regards as the Northern Hemisphere's best sailing destination.  A full gallery of great photos by Tom Hodge can be found here - https://tomhodgemedia.pic-time.com/-2025australiantasarnationals/gallery

Volunteers: The Heart of the Event

The success of the championship was due in no small part to the dedicated volunteers from both MOFSC and the local Tasar fleet. Their hard work behind the scenes ensured the smooth running of the regatta and created a welcoming, community-driven atmosphere for competitors and spectators alike. And of course no sailing day was complete without a daily presentation full of laughs and prizes led by Al Capitan - Alistair Murray. The celebration of the 50th championship was as much a tribute to these volunteers as it was to the sailors.

Looking Ahead

The 2026 Australian Tasar Championship is set to be held at the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron in Brisbane in early January. With this year's event setting a high benchmark, anticipation is already building for what promises to be another exciting chapter in Tasar sailing.

Saturday 4th January 2025 at 10am (AWST) at Mandurah Offshore Fishing and Sailing Club 115 Breakwater Parade, Mandurah WA 6210

Agenda

Proxy Form

Treasurer's report

ATC Profit and Loss

ATC Balance sheet

Minutes of 2023-12-30 AGM

President's report

It is not unusual for citizens of Melbourne to start a conversation with a reflection on the weather, it's actually a sport in its self to predict what will the day will bring and what has happened? Our city of Melbourne has rolled out all seasons…Hats off to every sailor as they have managed the amazing range of weather thrown at them over the series. But today was Port Phillip at its best with a perfect uninterrupted southerly race track with an oscillating 12 to 15 knot breeze. All final 3 races hit off with un bias lines and clear starts, switching on game face immediately as the class flag was dropped. Each side showed promise and spikes of brilliance but it was never for long… Together with constant gear changing, trim, working the varying sea states, the current, pressure and angle, todays racing injected all sailors with emotions of a text book yacht race. We say yacht racing is one of the highest decision making disciplines in the sporting platform, and today was no exception.  

USA2981 Dr Beverly Jonathan Mckee and Libby Johnson Mckee displayed extreme consistency and calculated professionalism throughout the whole series, an incredible result in winning the Championship.  Their best race a 3^rd and worst a 13^th they approached every race as a new beginning and managed each start with what was delivered. Congratulations to Jonathan and Libby.

AUS2967 Skippy, Harrison Sly and Zara Challis were an outstanding second over all, they are a powerful example of the new and younger generation of sailors, I watched them burst off the start line at the port end of race 8. Their boat was shinning with energy and performance, they sailed flat and fast working ever available gust and wave, their trim was perfect! 50 metres away on the media vessel I could felt their passion and will to take control….and they did just that to convincingly win that race and race 10. Bravo you two, we look forward to experiencing your next sailing challenge.

AUS2976 Magic, Chris Dance and Peter Hacket can only be described as the silent achievers, Chris and Pete are polite gentleman where there experience and preparation has developed an internal confidence to earn a position at the top. There Race 7 was notable by a calculated downwind comeback chopping out 20 places from 24^th to 4^th by picking an early gybe to take clear air all the way to the bottom gate.  

There have been so many wonderful stories across the championship, but family and friendships are the clear winners. I have played Beau Outteridges Day 3 highlight many times. Koki and Yuu's  happiness is infectious, the supportive culture of the Tasar community is also infectious… I love the thought of every human being smiling at each other for no reason ! 

Congratulations to all sailors…we hope all visitors have enjoyed our hospitality and thank you for visiting Sandringham Yacht Club, our state and our country. Take care with your travels home. There are a couple of things that make our sport of sailing a stand out, we never age out… leaving a life of experiences to continually grow and when we travel you can always guarantee a warm welcome by visiting a yacht club.

Our TOP 10 on SCRATCH:

1st - Jonathan & Libby Johnson McKEE (USA) 

2nd - Harrison SLY & Zara CHALLIS (SYC)

3rd - Chris DANCE & Peter HACKETT (SYC)

4th - James SLY & Eliza SOLLY (SYC)

5th - Jay & Lisa RENEHAN (USA) 

6th - Jon Holroyd & Tom Johnson (SYC)

7th - Mark & Ollie BULKA (McCrae YC)

8th - Alyosha Strum- Palerm & Analucca Clarkson (USA) 

9th - Heather MacFARLANE & Chris Payne SYC)

10th - Rick LONGBOTTOM & Darryl BENTLEY (RANSA / Canberra YC/ GRSC)

AGE DIV  Trophies:

Full regatta results as per the attached link.

https://www.topyacht.net.au/results/syc/2023/kblt/tasarworlds/SGrp2.htm?ty=31218

Another difficult day for the RO, with the light northerly disappearing before the start time of 2pm and then a wait for the light SE to fill in. Unfortunately to make things really difficult an unusual current (due to recent rains) meant the start boats were unable to hold their line for the start. This made for a difficult start for the first race of the day and a number of boats ended up with a black flag.

When the race did get away it was Harrison Sly/ Zara Challis (AUS) who picked the beat and lead all around the course followed by Lachlan Heath / Carmen Walker (AUS). But Jonathan McKee/ Libby Johnson McKee (USA) who showed their pedigree with a 5th right behind Chris Dance / Peter Hackett (AUS) with James Sly / Eliza Solly (AUS).

The second race was a similar event but with less current for the start and the wind a little less consistent across the course. This time the Japanese showed their skills with Satoshi Kami / Saori Kami (JPN) winning and Akihira Morita / Tomoyo Morita (JPN) finishing in 3rd with veteran Jay Renehan / Lisa Renehan (USA) splitting the Japanese boats.

Jonathan McKee / Libby Johnson McKee did a great job to catch up to 8th, which although their drop race is still cements their position in 1st. Chris Dance / Peter Hackett (AUS) also climbed back well to get another 4th and move clear into second overall.

The regatta now has a day off from racing, but with five more races scheduled for the last two days on the 8th and 9th of January it is still very open but a few boats are in a strong position.

Full results at - https://www.topyacht.net.au/results/syc/2023/kblt/tasarworlds/SGrp2.htm?ty=26277

It was a picture perfect day on Port Phillip, starting the day with a ray of sunshine and a gentle whisper of breeze. The temptation of rolling out the banana lounge and sipping on pina coladas from the deck of Sandringham yacht club was high, but the show must go on! A big day in the office it was and time to get down to business ! Trim, Tactics and Tenacity made it happen as an extra on shore thermal twist was thrown into the mix!  In race 4 particularly as the land heated the left side of the course developed a thermal sea breeze boosting a shore side advantage for half of the upwind leg. The key was when to get right? Over the day we saw the southerly pressure range from 180 degrees to 220 degrees , until the last upwind work in race 5 where a 40 degree  easterly shift prompted a major left hand course rotation. All 3 races employed the U flag during sequence and with the exception of race 3 where 5 UFD's were issued, race 4 and 5 were clear start. 

Congratulations to the race winners of the day:

Race 3 and 4 JPN 2987 Megaptera II, Satoshi Kami and Saori Kami

Race 5 AUS 2799 A Team, Arron Linton and Jay Whittem 

Boat of the day and current regatta leaders:

USA2981 Dr Beverly, Jonathan Mckee and Libby Johnson Mckee

https://www.topyacht.net.au/results/syc/2023/kblt/tasarworlds/SGrp2.htm?ty=82782

Todays race one drained first race regatta jitters following 3 broken starts including 15 Black flag disqualifications, then finally getting away with a 100% clear start. The second race went straight to a U flag and got away first attempt capturing only one anxious OCS player. The southerly breeze gradually increased throughout the day commencing with 10 knots and finishing around 18. The angle can only be described as a precision military march in, Left Right Left Right Left Right Left! and so on! Missing a step meant missing an opportunity, easy to say but the boats that managed the phases today led the race. Several legs displayed extreme left and extreme right boats meeting upwind together.

Race Two: Two Shifty AUS2930 Lachlan Heath Carmen.For all results:

• 2024 Melbourne Worlds

https://www.topyacht.net.au/results/syc/2023/kblt/tasarworlds/series.htm

The true uninterrupted 8 to 15 knot southerly breeze played music with its gentle increase throughout the day. The 20 degrees oscillating breeze ranging from 175 degrees to 205 degrees opened the game for hot chess. What an exhilarating sport we live for!

The championship was wrapped up in two days on the water and with three races today a drop was allowed which juggled the final outcome. The passion to hit the line on time was strong until the final race leaving many boats OCS. The talent and fine sailing displayed in this regatta was first class, I can't wait to experience the next notch for the World Championships commencing on the 2nd January 2024.

Enormous Congratulations to Harrison Sly and Zara Challis in Skippy AUS 2976 for holding their lead and taking off the Australian Championships.

Noted recognition to the following championship winners:

• Masters Champion (Skipper and crew(s) all 40 years or older) - Chris Dance & Peter Hackett
• Grand Masters Champion (Skipper and crew(s) all 50 years or older) - Craig McPhee & Wayne Hale
• Super Grand Masters Champion (Skipper and crew(s) all 60 years or older) - Heather Macfarlane & Chris Payne
• First Female Helm - Heather Macfarlane
• First Youth Helm (helm is 21 years or younger) - Ollie Roodhouse

Overall Results:

RESULTS

Click here for more details

We were blessed by incredible weather for the State Titles, a full schedule of 8 races was run under the watchful and experienced eye of RO Stephen Aulich who will also be PRO for both regattas come December. Talk about Military Precision, Stephen had the Sandringham machine humming with exceptional race management, clear and decisive decision making and great off-water communication. Stephen is a rare example of an RO, who is truly there for the sailors.

A highlight of the regatta was the post racing briefing, in which all sailors partook. Eventual State Champions and former World Champions, Chris Dance and Pete Hackett opened up their considerable wealth of knowledge wallet and imparted some great tips to an eager audience. This initiative is something Chris and Pete were keen to implement after seeing the benefits the American fleet has gained by sharing information at the recent Seattle worlds, where the North Americans dominated the placings.

Local Sailors, James Sly & Eliza Solly, Harrison Sly and Zara Challis finished in 2nd and 3rd respectively. In fact the top 4 were filled by Sandringham locals. Maybe local knowledge? or maybe just exceptional sailors? In any case, the rest of the fleet were watching their transoms with a frequency to be admired.

With an expected fleet of 100 plus Tasars to enter the 2024 Worlds, we are excited to be hosted by the Sandringham Yacht Club and hope that some SYC members will want to be a part of the action and join us in what will be a truly memorable event, filled with great camaraderie from a group of sailors that know how to enjoy themselves on and off the water.

Download Notice of race here

Enter here

All the details can be found at https://2024.tasarworlds.com

on Tuesday 3 January 2023 at 10.00am (AEDT)
at the Toronto Amateur Sailing Club
27 Victory Parade, Toronto NSW 2283

 Agenda

Proxy Form

Treasurer's report

ATC Accounts

Minutes of 2022 AGM

President's report

The World Tasar Council (WTC) for 2022+ can be found by clicking here.

To find information on this process, please click here.

This meeting, which would traditionally have been held at the World Championships, will be held at the following time:

Date: Tuesday 13th September 2022

Time: 8pm (UTC)

Venue: Held online. The link is available through the agenda and Regions have the password to share.

The agenda can be found on the website here.

Any agenda items should be sent through the WTC representative for your region. These can be found on this page.

The start time of the meeting in various locations around the world will be:

Melbourne/Sydney - Wednesday 14th September 6:00am

Tokyo - Wednesday 14th September 5:00am

London - Tuesday 13th September 9:00pm

Seattle - Tuesday 13th September 1pm

Adelaide - Wednesday 14th September 5:30am

/regions/australia/new-south-wales/45th-nsw-state-titles.aspx

Results The 2022 Victorian State Titles will be held at Mordialloc Sailing Club from the 12th to the 14th of March.

More info        Mordialloc Sailing club   

Registration

Eligible boats may enter through the Sailor App (download the Sailor app/ select 'class' /select 'Tasar Association of Victoria' / select 'program' select '2022 Victorian Tasar States / select book') or at the following link: https://www.mysailingclub.com.au/event/GHJQH

Notice of race

Click on link   2022 Vic States NOR

Sailing Instructions

Click on link   2022 Vic States SI

Refund Policy

3.2. Should the event be unable to proceed due to COVID-19, all entry fees will be refunded in full.

COVID-19 Note: Due to the current uncertainty surrounding public events, the regatta format may change
depending on VIC Government Public Health Orders. Entries for the event may be capped to comply with Mass
Gathering restrictions, which take into account competitors, support vessel personnel, race management and
staff involved in the event. Non-compliance with Mordialloc Sailing Club's COVID-19 requirements may result
in disqualification from the race(s), and potential cancellation of entry for the remainder of the regatta.

Accomodation

We will try to offer billeting for those who do not have accomodation available in the Melbourne area. Contact Blaise Vinot on 0425 702 456  or bvinot@bigpond.com to discuss.

For many years these parts have been produced by Rileys in Australia. Rileys have recently stopped operating as a business. This had the potential to cause supply demands across a range of classes.

In planning for this, Tasar copyright holder Julian Bethwaite saw this as an opportunity to update the Tasar specific parts, without changing the functionality of the parts. Considering that the original parts were designed in the 1970's, whilst ahead of their time, Julian approached the redesign to ensure that there was no extension to the functionality or dimensions, but with the intention of an increase to longevity of the parts.

The fittings that have been updated by Julian and that will be available shortly are:

The 2022 Worlds website can be found here:  

www.tasarworlds2022.org

and the 2022 Worlds facebook page can be found here:  

www.facebook.com/2022tasarworlds

Inquiries can be sent to 

info@tasarworlds2022.org

The North American Tasar Association can be found on facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/natasar/

Please use the link below to find the most up to date agenda for the WTC Meeting to be held in Hayling Island.

 Click here for the link.

Please use the link below to access the reports from the meeting

Click here for the link

Please find below information on the 2019 WTC AGM, to be held at Hayling Island Sailing Club in the UK.

Date: Monday 29^h July, 2019                      Time: 9:15am

Venue: Hayling Island Sailing Club, UK

Agenda

1. Introductions and welcome

2. Approval of the agenda

3. Approval of the Minutes of the past meeting - Monday, 31 July, 2017, Toyota Industries Kaiyoh Yacht Harbor, Gamagori, Japan

4. President's report

5. Regional reports

         i.            Europe and TAUK

       ii.            Australia

     iii.            North America

     iv.            Japan

6. Executive Secretary's report (Pete Ellis)

7. Designer's report (Julian Bethwaite)

8. Chief Measurer's report (Chris Payne)

9. Site of next World Championship

Note: the regular sequence for hosting World Championships would be:

         i.            North America (2021)

       ii.            Australia (TBC)

     iii.            Japan (TBC)

10. Other Business

11. Election of Officers

         i.            President

       ii.            Vice President

12. Appointment of Officers

         i.            Executive Secretary

       ii.            Chief Measurer

The new class rules, dated 8th April 2019 can be found on the Class rules section of this website.

Please click here to go to the new class rules.

Jib Sheet Trial Report 1

TANSW gets approval for improved jib sheeting trial.

Following a presentation by Brad Stephens to the Measurers meeting held at Largs Bay Sailing the ATC have given approval to TANSW to conduct a trial of an improved jib sheeting system for the Tasar.  Initial trials will be conducted at Balmoral Sailing Club using the Club Tasar with TANSW reporting to the ATC on a regular basis.  Once Brad and the team have worked through the initial program the boat with the modified system will be made available to sailors to test and offer feedback.

The following outlines the rationale for the proposed system.

Changing the Jib Sheeting System on the Tasar.

If there was an off the shelf replacement part for the jib fairlead/cleat on the Tasar that offered the handling advantages of a ratchet block it would already have happened and Tasar crews would have benefited from the same improvements that have seen ratchet blocks replace the simple blocks for the mainsheet and traveler.  That there is no off the shelf replacement part has always made improving the jib sheeting system on the Tasar problematic. 

• Adult female crews are generally strong enough to pull the jib sheet on as hard as necessary but controlled release in strong or gusty conditions can be problematic and active trimming (as helms do with ratchet blocks on travelers) represents some difficulty for the typical female crew of average to good strength.

• Any modified sheeting system must protect the geometry of the existing fairlead with respect to sheeting angles (vertical and athwartship) although practically there was a minor change moving from the original Ronstan fairlead to the Holt-Allen, now Allen system.

• A 2:1 purchase system can be (and has been) used from the standard fairlead position although it creates some handling issues with additional sheet length to take-up and keep clean (no tangles). A 2:1 adds mechanical advantage which fix's the issue in 1) with respect to controlled release of the sheet but adds complexity and is not a universal solution for all.

• Adding a ratchet block at the fairlead position ( assuming current sheeting geometry is retained ) is unlikely to create enough wrap around the ratchet block to provide good holding power.

• Boats that were similarly rigged to the Tasar in 1975 such as the NS14 have all moved to turning blocks (ratchet) and deck mounted cleats and other similar sized boats (470 & Fireball) have been able to introduce ratchet blocks into their jib sheeting systems.

• Practically, the solution to an improved jib sheeting system for the Tasar, that is of universal benefit, is to mount a ratchet block (cheek block) and cleat on the side deck at the outboard end of the track and change the track/fairlead to a style that will protect the sheeting geometry. The attached jpg shows the proposed layout. Note, a ratchet block allows for a controlled release and active trim through its holding power, but it does not provide mechanical advantage, which is considered unnecessary (see point 1.).

Hello all,

Two to three years ago Bethwaite Design acknowledged some strength issues with some of the Tasars being built at the time.  The Tasar is a "Manufactured Class" and it is controlled by both a "Specification" and by the "Class Rules".  So Bethwaite Design decided that the best approach to ensure better boats with a longer racing life would require a specification change to the hull.  Following on from Consultation with the class, as a part of the same specification change Bethwaite Design changed the centre case to allow for a 29er centreboard.  This was done  primarily to support developing countries who wished to add Tasars to their existing 29er fleets at a minimal cost and enhanced interchangeability of existing equipment. As a manufactured class all specification changes to the Tasar need to be approved by World Sailing, and although Bethwaite Design believed they had that approval at that time, there was no offical approval available.  New hulls started coming out of the mold in 2016 which had changes in line with this new specification.  Since then the WTC have been working with World Sailing  and Bethwaite Design to ensure a proper official approval had been granted.  

Approved Specification change

World Sailing have now officially approved the following specification change (modified):-

Changes required to reinforce and strengthen areas:

1.     'The need to add an additional extra layer of cloth down each side under the side decks, down the carlins and all the way down to the sides where it meets the floor. (Increase of weight estimated of 2kg)'

2.     'The need to reinforce the Thwart (Increase of weight estimated of 0.5kg)'

Changes required to maintain the overall hull weight:

3.     'To reduce foam thickness from 8mm to 6mm on the top-sides, the forward deck and the aft deck.'

4.     'To replace the 'rhomboid' daggerboard centre-case with a foil section envelope capable of accommodating a section consistent with a 29er Class foil.'

5.     'To remove all the stainless steel and alloy mounting castings along with all the wood backing pads and to replace them with FRP landing and pads.'

Current Situation

Under the current Tasar Class Rules, no modifications are allowed to the hull for any reason other than repair, so this specification change does not allow existing owners to change their hulls to meet the new specification.  Please refer to class rules and this interpretation/understanding of those rules which identifies why changes are not allowed- /news/2017/06/wtc-interpretation-on-modifications-to-the-hull.aspx.

note 1 -  the Class rule C2.2 (n) allows only resilient material to be used to restrict the centreboard in the centre case.  Resilient material needs to be able to spring back after being pressed.

note 2 - the new centre case maximum width is approx. 10 mm bigger than the older centre case.

Moving forward

The WTC are currently looking at what rule changes are required to allow existing boats to be modified to the new specification, if an owner wished to do that.  Any changes made need to ensure that:-  

• the class keeps its ethos of being "Manufactured Class" which provides close racing between all boats,
• minimises measurement and administration at championships, 
• is available relatively easily for the majority of the existing fleet and 
• doesn't cause any unintended issues in the future.

WTC are looking at an aggressive timeline so that any rule changes can be voted on and if agreed, approved by WS in time for people to make changes prior to the next World Championships.

see Full Write up

Results

Outcome of Change to Tasar Compass Vote

The outcome of the vote to the proposed change to the compass rule for the Tasar class is:

Option 1: 5 votes

Option 2: 2 votes

Option 3: 1 vote

No vote received: 2 Districts

In order for a rule change to take place, 2/3rds of districts need to approve the change. This is specified in the class constitution. This would mean that 6 of the nine districts would have needed to vote for an option for it to then go onto the next stage of a rule change.

This means that there will be no change to the compass rule as a result of this vote.

Pete Ellis

WTC Executive Secretary

What Next?

It is proposed that Chris Payne (Class Measurer), alongside the district measurers will discuss a slight refinement to the wording of option 1, and that this will then be put forward to each district to either vote for or against it. This discussion will take place through the WTC measurers Facebook site.

One theme that keeps re occuring is what type of compasses are currently allowed and what would be allowed with the different options.  The following is my "opinion" based on my understanding of a couple of compasses that are currently in the market.  If my understanding is wrong then my "opinion" may change.  None of this changes the current or future rule.

1) The Ray Marine (Tacktick) Micro compass (T060) is allowed under all 3 options.

2) The Velocitek Shift is allowed under all 3 options with no restrictions.

3) The Velocitek Speed Puck is only allowed under option 2.

4) Standard non electronic magnetic compasses would be allowed under all 3 options

5) Apple watch or similar devices are not allowed allowed under all 3 options

6) Devices such as the Velocitek Pro Start are not allowed under all 3 options.

7) The Ray Marine (Tacktick) Race Master (T070) is allowed under all 3 options.

Nb.  the Velocitek Shift and the Tacktick Race Master use similar functionality and to my understanding to do not perform any more functinality that the Tacktick Micro.  ie the Micro in tacktick mode adds and subtracts the user specified tacking angle to make a guess at the true wind angle.  The Shift and the Race Master subtract the currect bearing from an arbitrary number determined before the start and provides the difference to help identify a lift or a knock.  Option 1) and option 2) clarifies this position.  The current rule requires an interpretation which in the past has been to allow the Velocitek Shift.  

Feel free to email me on chris.payne at p4g.biz for more discussion :). 

Each region will vote online on the 1st December 2017.

The three proposed changes along with the preface given to the WTC at the recent WTC Meeting are:

Proposed Tasar Class compass rule change:

 Due to advancement of technology and availability of features in compass products available on the market, it is proposed by the class measurers to modify the class rules that govern them. Further, the current Tasar class compass rule is not clear enough for class sailors to identify whether a compass is legal. The following options are proposed as a replacement to rule C.2.2. (g) and Interpretation 32:

 Option 1:

Modify the rule to incrementally increase the restriction:

 COMPASS, ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT AND TIMING DEVICES

(a) One compass mounted on any part of the deck or the cockpit is permitted if the hull cavity is not pierced by anything other than the fasteners. Compasses may not be fitted to inspection ports. An additional wrist mounted compass is permitted. Electronic, self-contained, digital compasses using only magnetic input are permitted.

(b) Timing devices are permitted.

(c) A timing device and electronic compass may be integrated in the same device.

(d) A compass or timing device must not be capable of displaying, delivering, transmitting, receiving, calculating, correlating or storing information about wind speed, wind direction, boat speed or boat position.

 Option 2:

Modify the rule to allow GPS function:

 The following optional equipment may be used so long as it is generally commercially

available:

(1) electronic or mechanical timing devices.

(2) one magnetic or electronic compass showing only information relating to heading, speed,

current or elapsed time.

(3) one GPS device showing only information relating to heading, speed, current or elapsed

time.

Devises which incorporate functions other than those listed in items 1 to 3 above shall not be

fitted to the boat or carried by a crew member.

To aid in assessment, a list of commercial devices deemed to conform to this rule will be

maintained by the WTC and published on the Tasar.org website.

 Option 3:

No change.

Click here for the full results

A summary of the Age Catergory Champions are:

Masters

1st Rob/Nicole Douglass (AUS)
2nd-Rick Longbottom/Darryl Bentley (AUS)
3rd Hiroaki Sato/Yasuaki Muragishi (JPN)

Grand Masters
1st Jonathan/Libby Johnson McKee (USA)
2nd Craig McPhee/Gill Berry (AUS)
3rd Heather Macfarlane/Chris Payne (AUS)

Super Grand Masters
1st Kym Widdows/Melissa Crawford (AUS)
2nd Ken/CJ Waller (AUS)
3rd Takumi Ozawa/Kenji Okamoto (AUS)

This is the 4th time that they have won the Worlds, with pervious World Champion Chris Dance, sailing with Jeremy Elmslie finishing in 2nd. In third place were current Australian Champions, Rob and Nicole Douglas.

What a week it was for sailors at their recent 21^st TASAR WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP, held in Gamagori, 3 hours south of Tokyo JAPAN. More often than not, there was a call by the helm for `more vang, more cunningham, more jib tension!!' as the 97 boat fleet reacted to freshening winds and heightening waves making for exhilarating upwind planing and fast screaming reaches. In amongst it all was the occasional `man overboard' and capsize, as well as broken halyards, rudderboxes, and even a snapped boom!!

The 5 Race Day event saw the outstanding North American crew from Seattle YC, former gold and bronze medal Olympians in the Flying Dutchman and 49'er Classes, JONATHAN & LIBBY JOHNSON McKEE, take out their 4^th WORLD TASAR TITLE! Behind them was `defending World Title holder' Australia's Chris Dance sailing with past National Junior Helms champion Jeremy Elmslie, then two times ex-Worlds Champions, `Australian father & daughter team of 20 years' Rob & Nicole Douglass in 3rd. As Libby said after the 1^st Race Day of 3 races and 5 hours on the water, it was one of their toughest days she'd ever experienced in a Tasar Regatta. The long lengths of each leg, the intensity of the breezes, the duration of each race (leaders finishing in 60 mins), set the norm for the first 3 DAYS of 9 races, testing not only sailing abilities but endurance. Together with exhaustion, swollen hands, and impressive hiking bruises, came big smiles and endless stories, all discussed over festive Japanese food platters and beverages during each day's Post Race Presentation and Happy Hour.

With the gradient winds dissipating later in the week, DAY 4 with Races 10 & 11, was sailed in softer breezes, enhancing opportunities for the `lighter' Japanese crews to excel. Finishing 5<sup>th</sup> overall, with 2 `heat wins' were Hiroshi Takahashi and Hiroyuki Sugiura. Japan's `Sailfast' team Hiroaki Sato and Yasuaki Muragishi also achieved many top 10 heat wins to finish10^th.

With just Heat 12 to be raced on DAY 5, and leaders Jonathan & Libby clearly securing their 1^st place on the podium, there was a mere 2 pts separating 2^nd and 3^rd, and 14 pts separating 4th to 9th. Consequently, chances were high for positions to change in this leading group comprised of 2 American and 5 Australian boat teams plus Japan's `Hiro crew' above. It was not to happen however, as the race was abandoned due to insufficient breeze and subsequently the Series was concluded based on overall results from DAY 4.

The Awards Presentation `Party' that evening recognised all age category and divisional winners, from junior to super grandmaster (ranging from 8 to 79 year olds), to ladies helm (Australia's current Fireballs National Champion Heather Macfarlane, 8^th overall), and the final top 6 boats which included Australian Navy's 1986 Tasar World Champion Rick Longbottom sailing with Darryl Bentley in 4^th,  and multi Australian Nationals champion Craig McPhee sailing with Gill Berry in 6^th.  Two highly acclaimed Nth American teams secured the balance of the top 10 positions, being US Multi Nationals Champions Michael Karas & Molly Jackson 7^th,  and 1992's World Title holders Jay & Lisa Renehan in 9^th.

Traditionally Tasars have honoured their `older sailors' with perpetual trophies for combined age categories for over 80-Masters, over 100-Grand Masters and over 120-Super Grand Masters. This year was no exception! In fact the competition was so high that to win the MASTERS or GRANDMASTERS trophies you had to finish in the top 3 overall. Awards went to:

MASTERS: 1^st Rob/Nicole Douglass; 2^nd-Rick Longbottom/Darryl Bentley; 3^rd Hiroaki Sato/Yasuaki Muragishi

GRAND MASTERS: 1^st Jonathan/ Libby Johnson McKee; 2^nd Craig McPhee/Gill Berry; 3^rd Heather Macfarlane/Chris Payne

SUPER GRAND MASTERS: Kym Widdows/Melissa Crawford; 2^nd Ken/CJ Waller; 3^rd Takumi Ozawa/Kenji Okamoto

This Regatta was Japan's 3^rd hosted Tasar World Championship, which brought together not only 97 representative crews from 5 different countries, but also 5 former Tasar World Champions. In addition, the Event attracted many ex Olympic, World and National Title holders in other Classes, a list suggestive of the popularity Tasars are experiencing around the World! Sporting their credentials in Australia's 33 boat representative fleet, were Women's former Laser Radial World Champion & twice Women's Hobie European and World Champion, Krystal Weir (15th), National multi-class Champion plus ex-World's Open Laser Radial runner up, James Burman (11^th) and ex multi 29'er Nationals Champion James Sly (12^th).

So, a brilliantly hosted Regatta, from offshore race officiating and media footage, to fantastic traditional Japanese food, refreshments and entertainment. How lucky it was that TYPHOON NORU held off on the coast of southern Japan, only to strike Gamagori with heavy rain and gale force winds the morning after Presentation. `Origatou gozaimasu' Japan and wishing the organisers of Gamagori's forthcoming 2018 World Cup Series and 2021 World Masters Games, great success!

Link to FINAL RESULTS of TASAR WORLDS 2017 here http://tasarworlds2017.org/racing/results. Also check out TASAR'S worldwide web for more info on this increasingly popular CLASS! /

Jenny Sorensen (Media Co-ordinator AUSTRALIAN TASARS ~ FB https://www.facebook.com/australiantasars/)

PHOTO CREDITS - Tasar World Championship 2017 (copyright) JUNICHI HIRAI/ BULKHEAD magazine JAPAN

Official Event Facebook Page

Australian Tasar Page

Adventures of a Sailing Girl Facebook Page

Tasar Victoria Facebook

Tasar NSW Facebook

Tasar WA Facebook

Tasar SA Facebook

A variety of on-site and nearby accommodation is available for 2019 Tasar Worlds ~ check out the following: 

- Hayling Island Sailing Club On-site accommodation (see booking process below)

- HISC Members Accommodation List

- HISC Local Accommodation List

NOTE - as block bookings have been made for Tasar World competitors for on-site accom, please email your enquiry to secure your booking to `Secretary@hisc.co.uk' before being provided with payment options. Follow up credit card payment is made via phoning the HISC Secretary's Office direct on 0011 44 23 9246 3768.

5^th June 2017

RE: Tasar Hull Modification

In regards to modifications to the Tasar Hull, in this case to the centreboard case.

The following class rules apply:

A1.2 These class rules are directed to the creation of a one-design class where the true test, when raced, is between crews and not boats; any alteration of the form and construction of the hull, equipment, fittings, spars, sails or running rigging, as supplied by the builder and approved by the World Tasar Class Association, except as specifically authorised by these Class rules, is a breach of these Class rules not only in spirit but in substance, and is prohibited.

C2.2 (n)

A restrictor device for holding the daggerboard forward and vertical may be used provided it is made of material sufficiently resilient to permit the tip of the daggerboard to rotate aft under impact load, e.g. sponge rubber, styrofoam, etc.; and further that it does not extend forward of the aft edge of the daggerboard. No non-resilient material may be incorporated in the restrictor or used as fairing. The padding allowed by C.4.3 may be compressed or removed where the restrictor is fitted in the centrecase.

C2.2 (f)

When as a result of an approved building specification change, there are changes to the equipment, fittings, spars, sails or running rigging as specified for new boats, then the same parts may be fitted on all other boats.

Interpretation

It is the intention of this interpretation to state that in A1.2 "the hull" and "equipment" are identified specifically, but in C2.2 (f) only "equipment" is stated. Therefore, the fact that "the hull" is not identified in rule C2.2 (f) means that it is not covered in this rule.

Peter Ellis

World Tasar Council Executive Secretary

Mike Karas

World Tasar Council Measurer

`Futons, hot springs and traditional Japanese hospitality are not the only items that await Tasar sailors heading to the Honshu seaside city of GAMAGORI for TASAR WORLDS 2017, 30 July-6 Aug. They'll also face high level competition and racing in Japan's softer breeze conditions making for that `extra challenge', especially for crews on the slightly heavier side!

Australia will have one of its largest ever fleets competing in Japan with 33 boats being loaded onto containers at ports in WA, NSW and VIC. They'll be competing against a very strong US team amongst others, including Jonathon & Libby McKee who together hold 3 Tasar World titles and are former gold and bronze medal Olympians in the Flying Dutchman and 49'er Classes, Jay & Lisa Renehan (Tasar World Champs in 1992 and 3^rd at the last Worlds at Geographe Bay WA), and Mike Karas & Molly Jackson (multiple Nth American Tasar Champions). There is also the threat of a strong local Japanese fleet as word circulates that these Japanese sailors have slowly but surely become better Tasar sailors, achieving gradually higher placings in World events. Their combined lightness in crew weight will also favour expected conditions.

So how does the Australian Tasar fleet weigh up? Fortunately, along with having one of our largest contingents we also have one of our strongest!  Defending World Champion Chris Dance, pairing up with former National Junior Helm winner Jeremy Elmslie will be there, as will twice ex-World & current National Champion father and daughter team, Rob & Nic Douglass. 2004's Australian Female Sailor of the year, Krystal Weir will also be competing with crew member Kate Goss. Two time Olympian in Laser Radials, Krystal claimed victory in the Women's Laser Radial World Championship in 2004, and was the Women's Hobie European and World Champion respectively in 2014 and 2016.

Two more prominent Australian Tasar sailors who juggle between classes include James Sly, ex-European runner up and twice National Champion in 29'er, and Heather Macfarlane. As Tasar's National Female Helm title holder for 9 years, Heather will prove to be a strong contestant in the world fleet sailing with crew member Chris Payne who together are this year's National Fireball Champions, rated in `Fireball's top 5 in the World'.

We also have many top competitors who have been in the Class for many decades, including Australian Navy's Rick Longbottom (winning Worlds in 1986), former British & Australian Navy's Martin Linsley (ex-European 1986 and Japan Nationals Champion 1991) and 5 times Australian Nationals Champion, Craig McPhee (spanning from 2000 to 2008).

TASAR WORLDS 2017 will actually be Japan's 3^rd staged World Championship event. World competitions for Tasars have been held annually since 1981, that year sailed on Canberra's Lake Burley Griffin. Subsequently its location has moved all around the world hosted by Tasar Associations in the Nth America, England, Thailand and Japan, as well as Australia. The Class has also taken a foothold in New Zealand and Europe, with representatives from the Netherlands, Germany, Italy and Ireland.

It's not surprising this Class proves popular throughout the world, and why it's not uncommon for sailors skilled in another class to swap across. Tasars are renowned for their `all time good fun sailing', where people of all ages from youth to great grandmasters regularly compete both at Club and Regatta level. They were born out of the design concept developed by Sydney's Frank Bethwaite in the 1960's, who believed in a boat capable of being handled by a man and a woman, and built for lightweight high performance speed and planing. Being of a very strict one-design, he ensured its racing was determined by skill and not boat. Latest statistics show that 80% of Tasar fleets have at least one female, a characteristic of this Class which ensures that the fun continues off the water. After enjoying a taste of Tasar sailing in January's Nationals, who would have thought Rio's Olympic Laser Gold medallist TOM BURTON with crew member Emma Knighton, would be racing his own Tasar in the NSW States this Easter?

 To be part of the next great adventure, contact `Adrian' at anicholson@mmal.com.au and check details at http://tasarworlds2017.org/...

Jenny Sorensen'

TASAR WORLDS Busselton WA, Jan 2015

 ADDENDUM

1. James & Tara Burman now join our Australian team! James is a State & National multi-class Champion & ex-World's Open Laser Radial runner up. Tara herself is a multiple NS14 & MG14 National Champion forwardhand

2. 2016's Laser Olympic Gold Medallist, Tom Burton ran `runner up' at 2017's NSW Tasar State Titles

3. It may be too late to load your Tasar onto a container, but it's not too late to enter TASAR WORLDS 2017. Entries are accepted until 14 July (you may need to charter that boat however!)

4. And yes .. AUSSIES love their hot tubs!!

More info...

The regatta involves three days of short and long course racing on the ideal waters of Lake King and Bancroft Bay in the Western end of the Gippsland Lakes.  

For those road cycling enthusiast there is also a daily early morning ride on the undulating country roads.

The first activity is the Good Friday ride to Bruthen followed by the welcome presentation at midday and afternoon short course racing on Bancroft Bay.  Al and Tracey Murray were the best in the gusty 15 to 25 knot Southerly breeze to win a majority of the six or so races around the marks.  That evening a barbeque was hosted by the local Metung bush fire brigade at their station.  

 Saturday is the long course race to the Barrier Landing.  About a ten nautical mile race to the Landing near Lakes Entrance.  There is a picnic lunch and wander over the foreshore reserve to the Ninety Mile Beach.  The return race to Metung begins with a Gran Prix start.  Dave Elmslie and Phil Potter showed the rest of the fleet a clean set of heels and deft knowledge of the light and variable breeze to take out both halves of this classic long course race.

The Easter Sunday race is from Bancroft Bay, around Shaving Point.  There is a meetings with the Easter Bunny off the Metung back beach before a leg or two across Lake King to the finish.  Lunch is at the Metung back beach and the return in the afternoon is followed by the Trophy Presentation and Presentation Dinner hosted by the Metung Yacht Club.  This year the winds were light and Dean and Sue picked the ghost like breeze to finish well ahead of the fleet.

Partners who don't wish to sail have a variety of options on shore sightseeing or local attractions.  Alternative there are on water activities hosted by a range of watercraft supplied by the yacht club members.

This year Al and Tracey Murray took out the awards using local knowledge and superior racing skills.  They were followed closely by Dave Elmslie and Phil Potter and Dean Robson and Sue Lary. 

Our thanks to the Commodore of Metung Yacht Club, Mary Rowe for hosting the event including the myriad of club members, the Off the Beach community and volunteer helpers including the joint Race Officers' Damien Daniels (Metung) and Phil Strong (Sandringham).

The regatta is part of Tasar Association of Victoria's travelers trophy.  All Tasar Association members are invited to the 57^th regatta which is on next Easter at end of March 2018.  So get your accommodation bookings in early and be prepared for a fun Easter Break.   You can get more information on the link https://syc.com.au/otb-easter-pilgrimage-metung-14-17-april-2017/ and this will be updated early next year.  Contact TAV from more details.

The long course racing is a totally different and challenging experience on the waters of the Gippsland Lakes.  There is something for everyone in this regatta.  It is thoroughly enjoyable way to spend the Easter break, sailing and enjoying the company of young and old off the beach sailors.

With Tropical Cyclone Blanche dissipating over northern Western Australia, Sorrento on Port Phillip was blessed with beautiful sailing weather for the whole weekend.  The fleet included the current Tasar State Champion/National Champion/World Champion (all different boats) plus dual Olympian, Krystal Weir and previous Tasar World Champions Rob & Nicole Douglass and Rick Longbottom along with other World Champions such as Glenn Collings and a host of National and State Champions from Tasars and other classes, including local skiff champion James Sly sailing with cat hot shot Chelsea Haynes. 

Day 1 set the scene with the temperature in the high 20's and a 10 to 16 knot steady Southerly to South Easterly blowing across the course.  Both Chris Dance/Jeremy Elmslie and Rob & Nicole showed why they were current champions and shared the wins between them and ended up with Rob/Nicole 1 point ahead of Chris/Jeremy.

Day 2 started very differently with a 30 knot Easterly blowing across the course, but by the time the fleet launched it was 15 knots and dropping.  The first two races were sailed in light conditions and saw a mix up of the points, except for Chris/Jeremy who ended with two second places.  Daryl and Michelle Stone from Albury sailing in the newest Tasar in Australia, showed their talent to win the difficult 2nd race.  The fleet broke for lunch as the wind stopped, and again a lovely southerly came in for the afternoon race.  Current State Champions Heather Macfarlane/ Chris Payne won this race to put some pressure on the leaders, but Chris/Jeremy went into the last day with a 6 point buffer over Rob & Nicole.

Day 3 looked like a day on the beach due to no wind, but by the time the fleet had to launch, a nice SE was filling in.  Two races were held in a breeze building from 10 knots to 15 by the end.  In the first race Heather/Chris won, Glenn & Vanessa Collings were 2nd and Rob/Nic were 3rd. Chris/Jeremy had their worst race for the series with a hard fought 5th.  This set the scene for the final race with Heather/Chris needing to win with Chris/Jeremy 5th or worse, and Rob/Nic only 1 point behind.

Final race was in perfect conditions and class stalwarts Mike Paynter/ Kim Paynter (Super Grand Masters) won followed closely by the other class stalwarts Alistair Murray/ Tracey Murray.  Alistair and Mike have won numerous Tasar state titles together and won a Tasar Nationals 25 years ago and showed they have not lost any of their skills.  Chris/ Jeremy kept a close watch on Chris/ Heather which sealed the overall win for them, and Rob/ Nicole finished a strong second overall.

Big thank you to Sorrento Sailing and Couta Boat club for organising the regatta for us and especially to Adam Hawkins for his outstanding Race Management. 

Final Results

Super Grand Masters

Michael Payner/ Kim Paynter

Grand Masters

Heather Macfarlane/ Chris Payne

Masters

Rob Douglass/ Nicole Douglass

Most Improved

Daryl Stone/ Michelle Stone

Photo L-R Alistair Murray ( Ronstan Representative), Jeremy Elmslie, Chris Dance and Dave Taylor (TAV President)  -copyright Sarah McCully

AUS have now 4 containers going to Japan. We have 2 from Victoria, 1 from NSW and 1 from WA.  We have been very busy sourcing Lease boats for UK and USA competitors due to the high cost of container travel arrangements.  Well done to all those who have assisted finding Lease boats for all who needed them.  If you need any specific container details, contact :

NSW/ACT it's Rob Douglass on rob@sunsetmedia.com) with your details and have your deposit ready to go!

VIC its Blaise and Chris Payne   bvinot@felco.com.au

SA its Adrian and Jan  anicholson@mmal.com.au

WA its David Meehan   davidmeehan101@hotmail.com

Our Japanese hosts have also placed some handy information on their website, including a brief from Paul Ridgway about race conditions at pre worlds, commuting by bullet train from Tokyo to Gamagori & touring. An array of airlines fly both into Tokyo (Narita & Haneda Airports) with direct flights offered by both JAL and ANA as well as Qantas

If anyone is late entering, and/or has questions regarding Tasar Worlds 2017, please  contact your State/ Territory representative, or the ATC (Adrian Nicholson: anicholson@mmal.com.au). If we can't initially answer or provide you with the necessary information, we will direct it onto our Japanese sailing colleagues in the JTA, will follow up back to you.

Just 2 months to go!

If you still want to go, you had better hurry, you have till early June when the containers will leave our shores.

Just to let you know that a few busy Tasar Sailors have spent some time updating a few areas of the website (Thanks JS !)

If you have a look at each Region you will see a tab pointing to the History of the Committee's.

Have a look and see if your name is up in lights.

If your name is there, many thanks for donating a bit of time helping the Tasar class grow.

If your name is not there, How about volunteering for a committee position.

Also check out the AUS National Titles winners, all updated.

Also ATC Meeting Minutes for the last few years are up there.

If you would like to see anything else up on the website please send the ATC an email and they will see what they can do.

Happy Sailing

From the ATC

These are the great full screen printed design as modeled by our famous class Ambassadors.

To order a shirt buy through www.kutter.com.au   password TASAR 

And When Ordering choose one of these Delivery Options

-        Delivered to Japan 

-        Delivered to your Association ( if available)

-        Home delivered

Be the envy of your friends...go on get one !

Oh and to give you an indication of Size, the Ladies is Size 10 and the Mens shown is a Large

The website can be found at: http://tasarworlds2017.org/