The STAR (INTERNATIONAL) sailing boat, commonly known as the Star class, is a popular one-design racing keelboat. It was designed in 1910 by Francis Sweisguth, a naval architect from the United States. The Star class has since become one of the most prestigious and competitive classes in the world of sailing.
Here are some key features and characteristics of the Star class:
1. Design: The Star class is a 6.9-meter (22.7 feet) long, two-person keelboat. It has a traditional design with a long overhanging bow, a narrow beam, and a large sail area. The boat's hull is typically made of fiberglass or wood.
2. Rigging: The Star class uses a sloop rig, which means it has a single mast and a mainsail, as well as a jib. The mainsail is large and powerful, providing the boat with speed and maneuverability. The jib helps balance the sail plan and assists in controlling the boat's direction.
3. Crew: The Star class is sailed by a two-person crew, consisting of a skipper (helm) and a crewmember (usually called a crew or crewmate). The crew's role is to assist the skipper in controlling the boat, adjusting the sails, and maintaining balance.
4. One-design class: The Star class is a strict one-design class, meaning that all boats are built to the same specifications. This ensures fair competition, as the performance is solely dependent on the skill of the sailors rather than the equipment.
5. Olympic status: The Star class has a long-standing history in the Olympic Games. It made its debut in the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics and remained an Olympic class until 2012. Many renowned sailors, including Paul Elvstrøm and Torben Grael, have won Olympic medals in the Star class.
6. Competitive racing: The Star class is known for its highly competitive racing scene. The class hosts numerous regattas and championships worldwide, attracting top sailors from around the globe. The Star World Championship is the most prestigious event in the class, showcasing the highest level of competition.
7. Performance: The Star class is known for its excellent upwind performance, allowing it to sail close to the wind and maintain good speed. It is also known for its tactical racing, as sailors must make strategic decisions to find the best wind and current conditions on the racecourse.
Overall, the Star (INTERNATIONAL) sailing boat, or the Star class, is a revered keelboat class with a rich history and a reputation for intense competition. Its design, strict one-design rules, and Olympic status have made it a favorite among skilled sailors worldwide.
