ONE METER SPORT CLASS

The ACMSC's most popular class is called the One Meter Sport Class. The idea behind this class is for any kit-based commercially available boat between 33" and one meter (39 3/8") to compete. The rules strictly prohibit any modifications to the original kit design below the waterline, but some modifications, most specifically carbon fiber spars (masts, booms) and aftermarket sails are allowed so long as they conform to the dimensions of the original kit parts. This class has grown to well over ten boats, and it’s still growing.

Most Popular One Meter Sport Class Boat:

Kyosho SeaWind

The SeaWind is a one meter sized boat (39 3/8") that is an officially sanctioned class of the American Model Yachting Association (our sanctioning body). In June of 2005, the ACMSC hosted the first ever AMYA Region 4 Championship Regatta for this class, with skippers from three states competing and 14 boats on the water.

The AMYA one design rules are very rigid - allowing very few modifications to the original kit design. However, the Seawind kit is very high quality, and modifications are not necessary for this boat to sail reliably and competitively. Though the rules allow modifications above the waterline as previously mentioned, most of the ACMSC SW skippers have adopted the class rules and sail their boats accordingly. The Seawind has been the most successful in terms of fleet numbers, with 13 as of 5/10/05, and the highest winning percentage in regatta heats.

The Seawind is an easy boat to build, taking as little as a weekend or two, or a few weekends depending on the complexity of the paint job. It can be built by even the most inexperienced builder and requires only simple tools such as screwdrivers, epoxy (provided in the kit), and CA glue.

The Seawind can be sailed in a variety of wind conditions - from next to nothing to 20mph winds. The boat is easy enough to sail for a beginner, but has enough tuning options to keep the serious racer happy.

Pricing for the Seawind varies depending on which kit you buy. There is a combo kit that includes not only the boat kit, but electronics as well that sells for between $400 and $430. The basic kit, which does not include electronics can be found for around $300. The kits can be purchased or ordered from a number of sources, including local hobby shops and mail order outlets.

32 SPORT CLASS

An alternative to the One Meter Sport Class, is the smaller 32 Sport Class. This class follows exactly the same rules structure, with the only difference being the maximum size allowed, which is 32". These boats are generally more transportable, and can be less expensive. The 32 Sport Class competes at select events.

Most Popular 32 Sport Class Boat:

Thunder Tiger Victoria

The Victoria is a 30" boat that is also an officially sanctioned class of the American Model Yachting Association. The Victoria Class rules have a modified one-design structure. While no modifications are allowed to the hull, rudder or keel, modifications are allowed to the masts, booms and sails (with restrictions on size and dimensions).

The Victoria class is one of the most actively raced and sailed in the AMYA, and there are fleets all over the country. The ACMSC Victoria fleet currently consists of five boats, with several SeaWind skippers also owning Victorias.

On occasion, members of our club travel to Oklahoma City and other Midwestern locations to compete in Victoria Class regattas. One of the Vic's most attractive features is it's price. The basic kit can be purchased (without electronics) for about $100, and a completely competition-ready boat will probably cost in the neighborhood of $350-$400. The Vic can sail in a variety of wind conditions and is very agile for it's size.

Victoria kits can be purchased from just about any hobby store, and they are also available from many online sources. Upgrade kits and parts are also common - check the Links section on our website to see some of these companies and their locations.

OTHER BOATS

While the One Meter Sport and 32 Sport Classes are the only ones currently actively raced with our club, we welcome ANYONE with an RC sailboat to come and join us. Not all of our club's activities involve racing, though that is a large part of them. We also often get together for Fun Sails and casual sailing as well. Several of our skippers own boats that do not fit into these categories - anything from schooners to multi-hulled boats.