J/105 Rule Changes February and July 2002, January 2003

ALL SUBMISSIONS TO BECOME EFFECTIVE 2/15/02 UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

MEMBERSHIP AND ELIGIBILITY

"The Driver shall either be an Active Member or an Associate Member. Any Driver who is an Associate Member shall be a Group 1 competitor and be either (a) a member of an Owner's immediate family or (b) a long term shipmate and friend of an Owner."

Discussion: Existing rule 3.4 specifies that the Driver of a J105 must be either an Active Member (i.e., the owner), a member of the member's family or a long term shipmate and friend of the member. While the existing rule clearly states that a "long-term shipmate" needs to be a Group 1 competitor (i.e. an amateur), it is ambiguous on whether a family member who is a Group 2 or 3 (i.e. people who work in the boating industry, including sail makers) may drive the boat. The ExCom believes that there should be no difference between family members and friends of an owner: neither should be permitted to drive if they are Group 2 or 3. This submission clarifies this point.

"Level A: The crew aboard (excluding a 100% Owner) shall be comprised of Group 1 competitors, except that one crew member may be a Group 2 competitor unless the boat has a 100% Owner who is a Group 2 or 3 competitor."

Discussion: Existing Level A permits one Group 2 competitor on board even if there is a 100% Owner who is a Group 2 or 3. So boats with a 100% Owner who is a Group 2 or 3 competitor have an assumed advantage over boats with Group 1 owners because they are permitted two Group 2 or 3, rather than only one. This submission "levels the playing field" by limiting the number of Group 2 or 3 competitors in Level A to one in all cases.

"Level B: The crew aboard (including a 100% Owner) shall be comprised of Group 1 competitors, except that the crew may include (a) one Group 2 competitor and (b) one additional Group 2 or Group 3 competitor."

Discussion: Existing Level B permits an unlimited number of Group 2s, in addition to a Group 3 plus a 100% Owner who is a Group 2 or 3. This is perceived to be too large a "step up" from Level A. This submission limits Level B to one Group 2 plus one Group 3 or 2, including a 100% Owner

"3.10. A "Charterer" is the person who charters a J/105 for one or more regattas, provided (a) the charterer is an Active or Associate Member, and (b) the charterer is otherwise an Owner of a J/105 or the ExCom has determined that the charterer is a Group 1 competitor and is likely to become an Owner of a J/105 in the near future. In the case of a chartered J/105, references in rule 3.4 to "Active Member," and references in all class rules to "Owner," shall include the Charterer; references in these class rules to "100% Owner" shall include a Charterer only if he or she otherwise legally owns 100% of a J/105.

Discussion: The current class rules do not directly address the right of charterers to participate in class racing. Since a "Driver" must be either an "Owner" or a family member or "long-term shipmate" of an Owner, the current rules appear to completely exclude charterers who are not owners or their family and friends. In the past, the ExCom has determined the right of charterers to participate in Key West Race Week on a case-by-case basis and generally limited participation to amateur teams (many of which later purchased a J/105). This submission reflects the view of the ExCom that charters for national events such as KWRW should be limited to those who are owners or will likely become owners in the near future. The premise of this position is that the great majority of our owners do not want to spend a lot of money for attending national events only to find that boats loaded with "ringers" clean up the silver. A bona fide, substantial down payment for a boat might be an indication that someone is "likely" to become an owner, although the ExCom may find that it is not sufficient in a particular case.

A Charterer who has met the requirements of the rule is treated as an Owner for all purposes and as an Active Member for purposes of rule 3.4. Thus, the Charterer can drive the boat or have a family member or long term shipmate and friend drive the boat (provided such person is a group 1).

"Exception: forward V-berth cushions, dodger, and snuffer cleats on the starboard side of the cabin may be removed."

Discussion: Permits removal of snuffer cleats because many people don’t use snuffers for any type of sailing.

Submission #6 (Passed 25-2-0)

Replace rule 5.3.8 with the following:

"5.3.8 U-bolts or pad eyes outboard of standard jib track for barber-hauling the jib, or affixing blocks to the stanchion bases or chain plates for the same purpose."

Discussion: Permits barber-hauling of jib sheets outboard by different means.

"5.3.9 Spinnaker sheet twings led to stanchion bases or midships pad eyes, with additional cam cleats."

Discussion: Deletes requirement that additional cam cleats for twings be on cabin side.

"5.3.11 Block and tackle cunningham to ring at top of Quickvang."

Discussion: A substantial number of boats already have this modification which was previously approved by at least one fleet measurer.

Add the following to Rule 5.3 (Permitted while racing):

"5.3.15 Toggles in the backstay or forestay, or both."

Discussion: One 2.5" toggle comes with the boat in its standard specification. A large number of boats use that toggle to get the forestay to the maximum length. Some boats have added a toggle to the backstay as well to permit the mast to straighten completely if the backstay is slack.

"6.1 A sail shall comply with the class rules in effect on the date of delivery of the sail (rule 6.9) or at event measurement.

6.2 All sail measurements shall be carried out in accordance with the Equipment Rules of Sailing ("ERS"). Terms used in these class rules in bold letters are used as defined in the ERS.

6.3 Sails carried aboard, or used during a class event shall be limited to one mainsail, one jib and two spinnakers; provided that the second spinnaker shall only be used if the first ("primary") spinnaker is damaged or, if due to extreme wind conditions, the skipper reasonably believes that the primary spinnaker will be substantially damaged or destroyed. If a second spinnaker is deployed, the primary spinnaker shall not thereafter be used in the same race.

6.4 Mainsail.

6.4.1 The mainsail shall be manufactured from woven ply of polyethylene terephthalate ("PET"), such as Dacron, and the ply weight of the body of the sail shall not be less than 300 g/m² (7 oz).

6.4.2 The dimensions of the mainsail shall not exceed: luff length — 12,650 mm; foot length — 4,450 mm; leech length — 13,260 mm; half width — 2,890 mm; three-quarter width — 1,685 mm; and top width — 178 mm.

6.4.3 Four battens of any length shall be fitted so that the center of the batten pockets shall divide the leech of the mainsail into five equal parts with a tolerance +/- 80 mm.

6.4.4 The tack ring of the mainsail shall be affixed in the standard tack fitting and the clew of the mainsail shall not be allowed to float free from the boom. The foot may otherwise be loose. At least one serviceable row of reef points shall be installed approximately parallel to the foot, with the tack point and the center of the reef point in the luff to be no closer than 1830mm. The mainsail shall be attached to the mast with sail slides. Windows are permitted.

6.4.5 The class insignia in blue with overall dimensions approximately 450x900mm shall be affixed on both sides of the sail between the upper two batten pockets, with the bar underneath the "J" located on, and nearly perpendicular to, a line through the mid foot point and a point on the top of the sail equidistant from head point and aft head point. National letters and sail numbers shall conform with the RRS and shall be placed between the middle two batten pockets.

6.5 JIB.

6.5.1 The roller jib shall be constructed of either 1) woven ply of PET, or 2) laminated ply of PET film and PET or PEN (polyethylene naphthalate - such as Pentex).

6.5.2 The dimensions of the jib shall not exceed: luff length —12,150 mm; leech length 11,280 mm; foot length — 4,450 mm; half-width — 2,020 mm; and top width —80 mm.

6.5.3 The jib shall have a minimum weight of 23.0 lbs. (10.35 kg), including any battens.

6.5.4 Not more than 3 battens of any length are permitted on the leech, provided that they do not restrict rolling the jib on the furler. Windows are permitted.

6.5.5. The jib shall have a hollow leech and while racing, shall be attached to and operated on the standard roller furling system using #6 luff tape. UV protective tape may be applied to the leech and foot to cover the sail when roller furled.

6.6 SPINNAKER.

6.6.1 The spinnaker shall be manufactured from woven ply consisting of nylon. The ply weight of the body of the sail shall be not less than 42 g/m² (0.75 oz).

6.6.2 The area of the sail ("SA") shall not exceed 77 m² based on the following formula:

where luff length shall not be greater than 14,900mm nor less than 13,600mm, leech length shall not be greater than 11,900 mm and half width shall not be less than .65 * foot length.

6.6.2 The area of the sail ("SA") shall not exceed 89 m² based on the following formula:

where luff length shall not be greater than 15,100 mm nor less than 13,600 mm, leech length shall not be greater than 12,140 mm and half width shall not be less than .65 * foot length.

6.6.3 Adjustable leech, luff and foot lines shall be fitted.

6.6.4 If a boat does not have at least two full sized, legal 89 m² spinnaker on January 1, 2003, one or two 89 m² spinnakers, as applicable, may be purchased before December 31, 2004 to make up the deficiency. If an additional spinnaker may be purchased under rule 6.8 on January 1, 2003, the number of sails that may be purchased under this rule 6.6.4 will be reduced by one.

This submission essentially makes four changes (together with a number of small improvements): First, rule 6.5 is changed from specifying a minimum cloth weight for the jib to imposing an overall minimum weight. Second, proposed rule 6.5.4 drops all limitations on placement, size and type of battens in our jibs, except that they are limited to the leech. Third, rule 6.6.4 reduces the number of additional 89 m² chutes that may be purchased by those who currently sail 77 m² chutes by the chutes that they are otherwise able to purchase under rule 6.8. Finally, rule 6.1 through 6.6 are rewritten substantially to base sail measurement and terminology on the Equipment Rules of Sailing, rather than the IOR and IMS rules.

Jib Weight. Existing rule 6.5 specifies a minimum cloth weight for the jib of not less than 6 oz.(257 grams per square meter). With advances in sail design, it has become more difficult to apply a minimum cloth weight. Technologies used by certain sail makers (North, UK) use composite sails whose weight varies over the area of a typical sail and cannot be determined without destroying the sail. This submission specifies a minimum weight for the jib instead. The overall size of the class jib and the class legal materials are not changed by this rule. It is expected that the minimum weight chosen will result in sails with a minimum cloth weight at least equal to 6 oz, as under the prior rule. Rule 6.1 in effect provides that sails purchased before 7/1/2001 will be grand fathered.

Jib Battens. Experience indicates that the standard roller battens used by most sail makers damage the jibs when furled. Many jibs develop "hard spots" after a few month, particularly at the top of the sail. This rule deletes the requirement that battens be "roller" type — thereby permitting "vertical" battens which are parallel to the forestay. These are used in many other classes such as the Melges 24 class. Also, the rule dispenses with the requirement that the battens be evenly spaced along the leech or have a maximum length. The Technical Committee believes that longer battens provide no advantages. It is hoped that this submission, if adopted, will encourage sail makers to experiment with battens and their placement and increase the average life of our jibs.

Additional 89m² Purchases. Under existing rule 6.8, if an owner is able to purchase a new chute anyways on January 1, 2003 (because 12 months have expired since the last purchase), there is no need to purchase two additional 89 m² chutes as under the existing rule adopted in September 2001. Likewise, if sail purchase limits are by calendar year as proposed under submission #11A/11B, each boat will be able to purchase one 89m² on January 1, 2003. Thus, there is also no need to purchase two additional chutes. Rule 6.6.4 incorporates these thoughts into the 89 m² rule adopted in September 2001.

ERS. In the past, references to the IOR and IMS rules have resulted in confusion in our rules since most classes now use the ERS measurement techniques. Since ERS and IOR measurements result in slight size differences particularly for the "mid-girth" (now called "half width") of the jib, a minor adjustments has been made to ensure that jibs measured under the new rule will be equal in size to those measured under the old rule.

Alternative Materials for the Jib. In drafting this submission, the Technical Committee considered whether it should propose permitting the use of higher tech sail materials, such as Kevlar. However, after discussion of this issue with sail makers and manufacturers of sail cloth, the Technical Committee decided against such a proposal at this time. Among other reasons, the committee concluded that Kevlar and other "higher tech" materials are either not suitable for use on roller furlers (e.g. Kevlar) or remain prohibitively expensive (e.g. Carbon) or are otherwise unsuitable for high performance applications (e.g. Spectra). Also, the Technical Committee has been assured that the quality of Pentex has improved dramatically over the last year or so and that the part of this rule proposal permitting freedom of batten placement (rule 6.5.4) will result in less damage to jibs than has been the case in prior years.

"Windows are permitted."

"6.5.1 Not more than 3 battens or stiffeners of any length on the leech are permitted, provided that they do not restrict rolling the jib on the furler. Windows are permitted."

Discussion: Submission #10A becomes effective 7/1/02 if adopted in order to give sail makers some more lead time. This submission makes these changes, which are part of submission #10A as well, effective 2/15/02 so that most sails purchased for the 2002 season can have these modifications.

Submission #11A (Calendar year rule) — Alternative to #11B (Passed 25-1-1)

"6.8 For purposes of class racing, sail purchases shall not exceed (a) one mainsail during any period of two consecutive calendar years, plus (b) one jib and one spinnaker during any calendar year. In addition, during the calendar year in which a new boat is first used ("year one"), one used mainsail, one used jib and one used spinnaker ("used" defined as at least 6 months of sailing use) may be purchased. Any sail purchased before year one shall be considered purchased during year one.

6.8.1 Transition rule: Any mainsail purchased during the last calendar quarter of 2000 or 2001, and any jib or spinnaker purchased during the last calendar quarter of 2001, shall be considered purchased during the next following calendar year."

Discussion: Under the existing rule, sail purchases are limited to one jib and one chute per "rolling" 12 month period and one main per 24 month period. This system has proven difficult to administer and enforce. This proposed rule limits sail purchases on a calendar year basis instead. The third sentence of proposed rule 6.8 ensures that a new boat owner is not entitled to purchase additional sails if a boat is delivered in the late fall and not used until the next year.

Proposed rule 6.8.1 clarifies the transition between the current "rolling" system to the calendar year system. In order to avoid giving people who purchased sails during the last few months of 2000 and 2001 rights to purchase sails at the beginning of the 2002 or 2003 season that otherwise wouldn't be available until the end, sails purchased during the last quarter of those years are counted as having been purchased in the following year.

"6.8 For purposes of class racing, sail purchases shall not exceed (a) two sails in any calendar year, plus (b) one additional sail during any period of two consecutive calendar years. In addition, during the calendar year in which a new boat is first used ("year one"), one used mainsail, one used jib and one used spinnaker ("used" defined as at least 6 months of sailing use) may be purchased. Any sail purchased before year one shall be considered purchased during year one.

"6.8.1 Transition rules: Any mainsail purchased during the last calendar quarter of 2000 or 2001, and any jib or spinnaker purchased during the last calendar quarter of 2001, shall be considered purchased during the next following calendar year. For all boats commissioned before 2002, the first sail shall not be purchased under rule 6.8(b) until the second year after the year during which the last mainsail was purchased."

Discussion: In addition to making the changes proposed by submission #11A, this rule changes the current system by permitting the owner to choose which sails to replace in a given year. Thus, the rule no longer prescribes that the main can only be changed every second year. Note that this rule does not increase the number of sails that may be purchased over the years. As under the current system, sail purchases are limited to two every 12 month and one additional sail every 24 months. The second sentence of rule 6.8.1 is best explained by an example. If a boat is new in 1999 and a new main is purchased in July 2001, that sentence says that a third sail cannot be purchased until 2003. If, on the other hand, a new main is purchased in November 2001, the first and second sentences combined mean that a third sail cannot be purchased until 2004 (since the main purchased in November 2001 is deemed purchased in 2002).

Submission #11C (Destroyed sails) (Passed 24-3-0)

"Further, any sail that, in the written opinion of the Chief Measurer or any Fleet Measurer, is destroyed or so substantially damaged that it cannot reasonably be repaired, may be replaced, provided such opinion and the certificate required by rule 6.9 are received by the Class Secretary."

Discussion: This submission clarifies under what circumstances a sail is considered destroyed or so seriously damaged that it may be replaced. Although the rule permits the replacement sail to be purchased even if rule 6.8 would not otherwise permit the sail to be purchased, the replacement sail is counted in subsequent periods against the sail purchase limitations. For example, if submission #11A is adopted, assume a new mainsail is purchased in July 2001 and destroyed in 2002. Further assume that a replacement mainsail is purchased in 2002. Clause (a) of the first sentence of Rule 6.8 would not permit another mainsail purchase until 2004.

Submission #11D (Charters; Borrowed Sails) (Passed 27-0-0)

"6.10. During a charter, the Charterer shall use either the sails of the chartered boat or, if the Charterer is an Owner, the sails of his or her own boat. Borrowed sails shall not be used during any regatta, except that a second spinnaker (Rule 6.[2/3]) may be borrowed and except as permitted by the first sentence of this rule for charters."

Discussion: The current rules do not address to what extent charterers are bound by the sail purchase limitations and whether sails may be borrowed. This submission clarifies both points. Note that only a charterer who is an Owner of a J/105 may use his or her own sails.

"Effective January 1, 2001 (or effective October 1, 2001, in the case of any 89 m² spinnaker that complies with rule 6.6.2 as to be in effect on January 1, 2003), all sails manufactured or delivered after January 1, 2001 shall bear a class-provided sail tag sewn to the tack."

Discussion: This rule implements the decision of the ExCom to charge sail tag royalties for all 89 m² chutes beginning 10/1/2001. Any 89 m² chute purchased after that date which doesn't bear a sail tag may not be used for class racing in 2003 or afterwards.

"The maximum crew weight (in swimming apparel) for one-design racing is 475 kilograms (1045 lbs.) with no limit on numbers of crew."

Discussion: The 970lbs weight limit has met with increasing criticism over the last few years. Proponents of an increase argue that even for five adult males, the 970 lbs limit is not very generous given our middle-aged owners and crews. For six — the number of crew many prefer — it takes serious efforts to recruit the requisite light weights to counterbalance even one 200 lbs crew member. Proponents of the status quo point out that the existing weight limit was intended to further the recreational nature of the J/105 by encouraging mixed crews. They also argue that increasing the weight limit will force most owners to sail with six people rather than five. In the view of some, any weight limit is bound to be too high for some and too low for others — everyone has to find the right people to fit the bill.

This proposal provides for a modest increase of the maximum weight to 1045 lbs. For a crew of six, this works out to 175 lbs per person, which is the average weight per person used in the IMS rule.

"An Owner who is the sole Driver for a regatta may elect a weight of 100 kg (220 lbs.) for that regatta, in which case he or she shall not be subject to weigh-in or other weight check."

Discussion: Dispenses with the need for Owner/Drivers to weigh in, while preserving their right to do so. Also, this rule has the effect of permitting Owner/Drivers who weigh more than 220lbs to have a reasonable amount of crew weight on the rail and not all in the back of the boat where it is less competitive.

"7.3 Unless otherwise specified in the sailing instructions, while class racing, all boats shall have float lines installed and shall have their weight equalized in accordance with Exhibit 7.3A to these rules, and shall have on board a J/105 Class Flotation Worksheet and Certificate in the form of Exhibit 7.3B, duly completed and signed by an Owner of the boat and co-signed by the Chief Measurer or his or her designee or any Fleet Measurer."

Discussion: This rule adopts the 2001 float line interpretation of the Technical Committee as a class rule, with some modifications. Experience has shown that boats vary considerably in weight based upon year of build, installed options and equipment on board and that light air performance in particular is affected by weight differences.

This rule presents the lesser of many potential evils. It avoids having to weigh boats, as is de rigeur in most other classes. It also avoids having to compare "sink" before every regatta, as is specified in existing class rule 7.3. Rather, the rule calls for the installation of float lines and for sink to be equalized once in a boat's life by filling fuel and water tanks and adding weights or equipment as necessary to bring the boat down to the lines. Under this rule, once a boat has been measured, all an owner needs to do is to make sure that the tanks are at least as full as at measurement and that all the weights and equipment that were aboard at measurement are aboard for the regatta. The required tank levels, weights and equipment are noted on the float line certificate. Unlike the existing interpretation, this proposal does not permit water jugs as weights. The Technical Committee was concerned that water jugs would be hazardous to the crew in heavy air.

EXHIBIT 7.3A

A. Install Hull Flotation Marks. Install contrasting 12mm x 75mm flotation marks on both sides of stem at the bow, and on both sides of aft end of rudder (long axis of marks parallel to waterline). The bottom of these marks shall be located as follows. Aft Floatation Mark: Locate aft hull point 170mm forward of transom along centerline of hull bottom. With the rudder fitted in its normal position, the bottom of the flotation mark shall be 60mm vertically below the aft hull point and shall be marked on both sides of the rudder at its trailing edge. Forward Flotation Mark: The bottom of the flotation mark shall be 1,260mm below the projection of the top of hull flange where it intersects the forward side of the stem head fitting measured down and around the forward face of the stem.

Note: A full diagram showing the placement of the float lines is available on the Class website (http://www.j105.org).

B. Measurement Afloat. Boat shall include only the equipment and other items specified in Paragraph C for its initial measurement. With dry bilges, boat shall be trimmed level (flotation marks approximately equidistant from the flotation plane) by temporarily relocating equipment aboard as necessary. No further equipment or ballast need be placed aboard if both the forward and aft flotation marks are touching (or are below) the surface of the water ("proper sink").

C. Required Equipment and other Items for Measurement Trim. Running rigging as used for racing including all sheets, halyards and control lines; emergency tiller (if wheel boat); life jackets for all crew; one anchor with attached chain and/or rode; tool kit; the one-design mainsail, jib, and spinnaker that will be used for racing; two main cabin berth cushions; fuel to at least 1/2 full on gauge; standard cooler (empty) and water tank (empty); one battery; radar reflector; bosun's chair; boat hook; 4 dock lines and 2 fenders; and all other equipment required by the J/105 Class Association Rules and Interpretations ("Class Rules"); and by USCG rules.

D. Trim Equalization Procedure. If the boat cannot be trimmed to proper sink with only the equipment and other items required in Paragraph C on board, the owner shall choose any combination of the following options to correct the trim to achieve proper sink:

1. Any optional items or standard factory installations not required to be on board by Class Rules, such as dodger (in its standard location), cushions, or 2nd battery.
2. Optional sailing gear such as spare sheets, blocks, winch handles, a second anchor with attached chain & rode, foul weather gear or other sailing related gear that is part of the yacht’s permanent inventory, but not including daily provisions such as food, drink and personal crew bags.
3. Second (spare) class spinnaker.
4. Up to 20 gallons of water in the optional factory tank.
5. Lead corrector weight installed (bolted or glassed) inside a locker, settee, cabinet or space other than below or above the main cabin flooring or flooring in the head compartment/changing area.

Except as otherwise noted, to achieve proper sink, all items listed in paragraphs 1, 2 and 3 may be located on a temporary basis anywhere on the boat, but subject to paragraph E while racing.

E. Not Permitted: Excepting spinnakers and the standard cooler, the locating of ballast or equipment under Paragraphs C and D either below or on top of the main cabin flooring or flooring in the head compartment/changing area while racing is not permitted.

All items under Paragraph D required aboard to achieve proper sink shall be listed on a J/105 CLASS FLOTATION WORKSHEET & CERTIFICATE substantially in the form of Exhibit 7.3B to the Class Rules, with its corresponding weight or gallons indicated, where applicable, a copy of which shall be aboard at all times while racing.

EXHIBIT 7.3B

Date:

Boat Name ________________________________________ Hull # ____________

Owner __________________________________________________________________

Address ________________________________________________________________

Email ________________________________ Tel _________________________

_____ Aft Floatation Mark: 60 mm Vertically Below Aft Hull Point, on Trailing Edge of Rudder.

_____ Forward Floatation Mark: 1260 mm Below Top of Hull Flange Down & Around Stem Face.

_____ Anchor w/attached chain and/or rode

_____ USCG safety items (flares, foghorn, 1st aid kit, bucket, 2 flashlights, USCG approved life jackets for entire crew, and fire extinguishers)

_____ Standard running rigging aboard

_____ Class sails: mainsail, jib and spinnaker

_____ 2 main cabin berth cushions

_____ Lifesling, MOM or horseshoe life ring on stern rail

_____ Basic nav gear (1 chart book, ruler, dividers, tide book & rulebook)

_____ Tool kit

_____ Handheld VHF and GPS in nav area, if not otherwise installed

_____ Radar reflector

_____ Emergency tiller (if wheel boat)

_____ Cooler & water tank, both empty in standard locations

_____ Fuel tank gauge reading at least 1/2 (Note Amount: ____________)

_____ 1 Battery in standard location

_____ Boat hook

_____ 4 dock lines and 2 fenders

_____ Bosun's chair

_____ Any other equipment required by the J/105 Class Association Rules & Interpretations and USCG rules (list):

_____ Cushions (V-berth and/or cockpit; please circle)

_____ Dodger frame and dodger (in standard location)

_____ 2nd battery

_____ Main cabin table

_____ Spare spinnaker

_____ A maximum of 20 gallons of water in tank under starboard settee - # of gallons________

_____ 2nd anchor w/attached chain & rode

_____ Lead weight secured in place: total weight ___________ Location (must be bolted/glassed inside a locker, settee, cabinet or space other than below or above the main cabin flooring and flooring in the head compartment/changing area)

_____ Other (list items and location as raced):

Certified by:

_______________________   ______________________________________
Owner                                   Class Measurer or Designee/Fleet Measurer

"7.3 To equalize "sink" for one-design racing if so prescribed by the notice of race or sailing instructions:"

Discussion: If Submission #15A is not adopted, this is to clarify that the procedure in rule 7.3 is not mandatory for each regatta, but only if required by the notice of race or sailing instructions. It is generally thought impractical to equalize weight before every single class racing event.

"7.6 Notwithstanding the provisions of RRS 42, 42.3 or 49, hanging on the mast or shrouds to promote roll tacking or gybing is prohibited at all times. For purposes of RRS 49.2, roll tacking or gybing shall not be a "necessary task."

Discussion: Under the racing rules of sailing, it is somewhat unclear whether hanging on the mast or shrouds to promote roll tacking or jibing is legal. In order to avoid controversy on this issue, the J/24 class has adopted a class rule declaring it to be illegal. This issue has come up in J/105 racing recently. This submission essentially is the J/24 rule.

Add the following new rule 7.8:

"7.8 Unless otherwise specified in the sailing instructions for a regatta, all rulings of the Technical Committee shall be incorporated herein by reference and shall constitute rules for purposes of the RRS."

Discussion: On some occasions, protest committees have disregarded rulings of the Technical Committee regarding weigh-in and other matters on the grounds that they do not constitute official class rules. (Class rules are automatically part of the racing rules of sailing and all sailing instructions.)

Additional Non-Substantive Changes to the Class Rules

"2.8 Advertising for the Class shall comply with the International Racing Federation’s Racing Rules of Sailing, as in effect from time to time (referred to herein as "RRS") and Category A of Appendix 1 thereto (or any successor appendix)."

Discussion: Updated references to the RRS and added definition used elsewhere.

The reference to "primary helmsmen" in rule 4.2 is changed to "skipper," the reference in rule 7.5 to "Primary driver" is changed to "driver" and all references in the class rules to "Active member" or "Associate member" are changed to "Active Member" or "Associate Member," as applicable.

Discussion: Technical corrections.

J/105 Rule Changes March 2001

Submission #1 (Passed 27-0-0)

Change the title of the section "Member Helmsman" to "Membership and Eligibility". All references in the rules to "helmsman" shall be changed to "driver".

Submission #2 (Passed 27-0-0)

3.1 Revise to: An Active Member shall be an Owner of a J/105 that complies with Class Rules and whose annual dues have been paid.

Submission #3 (Passed 27-0-0)

3.3 (New) An Owner is the person who legally owns 100% of the yacht or is one of two or three Group 1 competitors (as defined in US Sailing Competitor Eligibility Appendix) with equal partnership in terms of financial investment in the purchase of the complete yacht and the cost of its operations. All Owners shall be Active or Associate Members of the J/105 Class Association.

Submission #4 (Passed 26-1-0)

3.4 (Replace existing) The Driver shall either be an Active Member, or an Associate Member who is either a) a member of the owner’s immediate family or b) a long term shipmate and friend who is a Group 1 competitor. A Driver is defined as the person or persons who, excepting for momentary absence due to personal or shipboard needs, steer(s) the yacht during the 5 minutes prior to and including the start, until the finish.

Submission #5 (Passed 26-1-0)

3.5 (New) All sailing industry related persons (excluding 100% Owner) who have not received US Sailing competitor eligibility determination, shall be Group 3. Notwithstanding a US Sailing competitor eligibility determination, the ExCom shall be the final authority in determining a competitor’s status within the spirit of the class rules.
3.6 (Replace Existing) All races sailed under these rules shall be categorized for crew eligibility at least 45 days prior to the start of the race as either:

Level A: The crew aboard (excluding a 100% Owner) shall be comprised of Group 1 competitors, except that up to one crew member may be a Group 2 competitor.

Level B: The crew aboard (excluding a 100% Owner) shall be comprised of Group 1 and/or Group 2 competitors, except that up to one crew member may be a Group 3 competitor.

Level C: OPEN- The crew aboard (excluding Owner) may consist of any combination of Group 1, 2 and 3 competitors.

Submission #6 (Passed 24-3-0)

3.7: (Replace existing) If no Level is designated by the Notice of Race or by other Class notice 45 days prior to the event, then Level A shall apply.

Submission #7 (Passed 27-0-0)

3.8: (New) No crew aboard may be compensated in any way or receive financial benefit for racing in a J/105 sanctioned event. However,a crew may occasionally accept reimbursement for reasonable out-or-pocket expenses of travel, living accommodations and meals necessary for participation in an event.

Submission #8 (Passed 23-4-0)

3.9: (New) In addition to the non Group 1 competitors in #3.6 Levels A and B, representatives of J Boats and the J/105 Class Coordinator may sail on a temporary basis with new owners of J/105s in order to familiarize them with the boat.
Passed 23-4-0

Submission #9 (Passed 27-0-0)

3.10: (Renumbered from 3.7) The ExCom shall be the sole interpreter of these definitions and their application.

Submissions #1-9 Discussion: The revisions to this section deal with the ongoing issue of allowing competitors associated with the marine industry to compete in J/105 racing while maintaining the overall Corinthian spirit of the class. The addition of a new section 3.3 further defines requirements for the boat driver, requiring that the driver must be an amateur unless he or she is 100% owner of the boat. It is the opinion of the Technical Committee that the class should not prevent any person from owning and racing a J-105, provided that sailing industry related people are the sole owner and not sheltering a minimum financial contribution through partnerships or syndicates.

This proposal redefines crew eligibility with Level A, B and C designations for events. Because of the lack of any previous national guidelines, several fleets have struggled to establish their own. In proposing this, the Technical Committee recognizes that the US Sailing prescriptions are not perfect, yet chooses to rely on them as the soundest basis yet derived to establish crew eligibility without overburdening the class. To further reinforce the serious intent of the class to maintain a Corinthian spirit in the class, the proposed revision of 3.5 empowers the ExCom as final referee in case anyone slips through the US Sailing net.

Equipment Rules

Submission #10 (Passed 22-5-0)

Revise 5.1: "Standard factory supplied furnishings and equipment, including but not limited to the swim ladder, jib roller furling, emergency tiller (wheel boats only) 12 volt battery, igloo cooler, holding tank, head, paneling under and on top of the V-berth, floor boards, main settee bunk cushions, and bulkhead door shall not be relocated or removed when racing. Exception: forward V-berth cushions and dodger may be removed.

Delete 5.3.11: "Securing the v-berth cushions against the v-berth hull sides to reduce wear & tear." Reason: Not applicable if v-berth cushions become optional.

Discussion: This proposal permits owners to remove v-berth cushions and dodger to reduce wear and tear while class racing, as is currently permitted in several fleets.

Submission #11 (Passed 26-1-0)

Revise 5.3.6: A fine tune system for the mainsheet with a maximum 24:1 power ratio may be installed over the coarse tune block or on a bracket mounted on the opposite side of the traveler at the same height as the traveler.

Discussion: The revision to the fine tune system was proposed as a simply way to alter the existing system to minimize the problem of the fine tune sheet getting tangled in the mainsheet.

Sails

Submission #12 (Failed 10-16-1)

89sm Spinnaker Proposal in lieu of Backup 77sm Spinnaker

Effective January 1, 2002: Revise Paragraph 6.2 to read: "Sails carried aboard while the boat is racing under these rules shall be limited to one class mainsail, one class jib, and two class asymmetric spinnakers: one of not greater that 77 m\2 and another of not greater than 89 m\2 in accordance with the formula and size restrictions described in paragraph 6.6."

Revise Paragraph 6.6: First Sentence: Change "The asymmetric spinnaker" to "The asymmetric spinnakers" and delete "of 77 square meters".

Discussion: This is a proposed rule change submitted by Fleet #11 (Charleston) that doen’t change the number of spinnakers carried aboard, but substitutes an 89 sm for the spare 77 sm permitted under the current rules, and allows either spinnaker to be used at any time during a race at the skipper’s discretion. The 89 sm proposed fits within the current luff and leech restrictions in #6.6 and is approximately _ meter wider. The 89 sm offers better downwind performance and makes the J-105 reasonably competitive in PHRF rasing with a reatil cost impact of approximately $300 to $350 compared to the current Class sail inventory.

Submission #13 (Failed 10-16-1)

SAIL PURCHASE RESTRICTIONS

6.8: (Revise Paragraph 6.8) Each yacht is permitted three new class sails per calendar year (one main, one jib, one spinnaker) (Jan 1 — Dec 31) to be used in J/105 Class events. For use in class racing, a new boat purchaser is additionally permitted to purchase 1) up to one used mainsail, one used jib, and one used spinnaker ("used" defined as at least 6 months of sailing use) within the first year following delivery of the boat; and 2) one new spinnaker within the first calendar year of ownership. If the new boat purchaser purchases two new spinnakers within the first calendar year of ownership, then only two new class sails (one main and one jib) may be purchased in the second calendar year.

Discussion: This proposal addresses several issues. First, the calendar year dates provide an easier way for the class to supervise sail purchases without having to rely on knowing when boats were purchased. Second, it addresses the problem of spare spinnaker availability, and allows new purchasers the flexibility to purchase two new spinnakers upfront without having to wait for the 2^nd year. Third, it allows the owner to choose which sails need replacement, rather than dictating a 24 month life for the mainsail. Fourth, it ties the new sails to the yacht, rather than the owner. The proposal results in two additional sails purchased over the first 5 year period (Would change from 3,2,3,2,3 to 4,2,3,3,3) This proposed change will work with either the current spinnaker or proposed spinnaker rules of 6.2. and 6.6.

Additional Rules

Submission #14 (Passed 27-0-0)

Revise 7.1: Add second sentence: "If the sailing instructions require a weigh-in prior to the start of a regatta, a boat complying with the weight restrictions at weigh-in shall not otherwise be subject to a weigh-in during or after the regatta, except for weighing substitute crew."

Discussion: Current rules imply that the 970lb crew limit can’t be exceeded during racing, even if a pre-regatta crew weigh-in is in effect. This revision clarifies the intent that a crew that meets the pre-regatta weigh-in is legal for the event.

J/105 Rule Change December 2000

6.9 Effective January 1, 2001, all sails manufactured or delivered after January 1, 2001 shall bear a class-provided sail tag sewn to the tack. These tags shall be supplied to sailmakers by the Class and have a serial number that is registered with the class secretary/treasurer. A certificate with serial number, a statement that the sail conforms to class rules, and the date of delivery to the owner shall be signed by a person authorized by the Executive Committee and placed on file with the secretary/treasurer. Fees for purchase of sail tags by sailmakers shall be determined by the Executive Committee.

Rationale: Class measurers have a difficult time monitoring and enforcing the sail purchase and measurement rules. The sail tag system is used by many one-design classes, including the J/22, J/24, J/80, Mumm30, and 1D35 among others. National registration will make it easier for local measurers to verify that a sail has been purchased within the limitations of the rules and that it has been measured. As an ancillary benefit, this program will raise some money for the class. It will add about 1% to the cost of sails.

J/105 Rule Change September 2000

Voted Unanimously by the ExecComm, September 21, 2000

7.6 A yacht that that has been protested for infringing rule 7.2 or 7.5 may exonerate herself by promptly making one complete 360 degree turn, including one tack and one gybe unless the boat caused serious damage or gained a significant advantage in a race or series.

Rationale: A serious problem was created with new rules 7.2 (bowsprit rule) and 7.6 (helmsman position rule) because there was no alternate penalty. Since these rules were not "Part 2" rules, the only penalty was disqualification as they were originally written. This revision allows a penalty that "fits the crime."

Vote of the ExecComm mail balloting completed 2/2/00

All propositions unanimously approved except the following:

J/105 Rule Change Proposals 2000

December 2, 1999

To: J/105 Executive Committee
Fr: Technical Committee

Following are two revisions to submissions based on feedback to the Technical Committee from several fleets. Per the Class Constitution, there must be a 60 day review period. Class President Bill Sutton has asked that fleets submit votes on all 2000 submissions on February 2nd, with an Executive Committee tele-conference to follow. Submissions that pass would take effect March 1, 2000.

CURRENT SUBMISSION
7.2 New Rule: The bowsprit shall not be extended until the bow of the boat breaks the imaginary line drawn from the leeward mark or start line through the windward mark, on the windward side of the buoy. The bowsprit shall be retracted at the first reasonable opportunity after rounding the leeward mark.

REVISED SUBMISSION
7.2 New Rule: When not in the process of setting, flying or taking down the spinnaker, the bowsprit shall be retracted so that the tip of the sprit is aft of the forwardmost point on the bow. Approaching a windward mark without the spinnaker set, the bowsprit shall not be extended until the bow of the boat has passed the mark. The bowsprit shall be retracted at the first reasonable opportunity after taking the spinnaker down.

Reason- original submission did not address possibility of a major windshift on a windward leg. New submission better reflects intent that the bow sprit should be retracted when not using the spinnaker. Overall purpose is to encourage conservative sailing and reduce the incidents of broken bow sprits ($3,000) due to collision.

CURRENT SUBMISSION
6.8 Modify wording to read: Sail purchases are limited to one mainsail in any 24 month period, one jib and one asymmetric spinnaker, each in any 12 month period. A new boat purchaser is additionally permitted to purchase up to one used mainsail, one jib and/or one spinnaker ("used" defined as at least 6 months of sailing use) within the first year of ownership.

REVISED SUBMISSION
6.8 Modify wording to read: Sail purchases are limited to one mainsail in any 24 month period, one jib and one asymmetric spinnaker, each in any 12 month period. A new boat purchaser is additionally permitted to purchase up to one used mainsail, one used jib and/or one used spinnaker ("used" defined as at least 6 months of sailing use) within the first year of ownership.

Reason: Adding the word "used" before each sail to ensure no confusion over intent of the rule.October 19, 1999

The following proposals are considered "house-keeping" items as they either clarify the intent of the current rule (i.e. recent Tech Committee interpretations) or are redundant items as a result of the new Class Constitution. (Additions are in bold, deletions are struck).

1.3 - Modify wording to read: "All yachts, competing in one design or class sponsored events, shall comply with standard specifications published by J Boats, Inc. and these class rules. No alterations or modifications are permitted unless explicitly permitted by these rules. Alteration or modifications to class rules shall only be permitted with the joint approval of the copyright holder (J Boats, Inc. Box 90, Newport RI 02840) and J/105 Class." Reason- Deleted wording is redundant with Class Constitution.

2.1 — Modify wording to read: "The J/105 Class Association shall be the sole authority worldwide for the conduct and management of J/105 Class events. The management of class events and class rules shall be conducted with the involvement of the copyright holder and Class Executive Committee, as defined in the J/105 Class Constitution." Reason: To properly reference definition of Executive Committee in the Class Constitution.

2.2 - Delete: "The Executive Committee consists of the fleet captains of each J/105 Fleet (fleet must consist of at least 10 paid members), the copyright holder, and one "at large" fleet representative appointed by the copyright holder. Annually, the Executive Committee will elect a President, Vice-President, Secretary-Treasurer and Chief Measurer from its committee." Reason- Redundant with Class Constitution.

2.3 - Modify wording to read: "The ExCom shall (i) keep members informed of proposed rule changes and class activities.(ii) seek member consensus in recommending rule changes to the copyright holder." Reason: Rule change procedure is covered in Class Constitution.

2.8 — Add: "Advertising for the Class shall comply with the International Racing Federation’s Racing Rules of Sailing and Appendix G, Category A." Reason: Class practice since 1992 has been Category A, but it has not been explicit in the rules. US Sailing recently advised all classes to add explicit wording in their rules to protect classes.

3.1 — Modify wording to read: "An Active member shall be a legal owner of a J/105 that complies with Class Rules and whose annual dues have been paid. Active members are eligible to hold office. An Active voting member of the J/105 Class Association shall be a legal owner of a J/105 which complies with Class Rules and whose US$25 (for each owner or co-owner or helmsman) annual dues have been paid. Each yacht shall have one vote." Reason: To eliminate inconsistency between Rules and Constitution.

3.2 — Modify wording to read: "An Associate member is a family member, crew or other individual supporting the Class by paying annual dues. An Associate non-voting member is a family member, co-owner, crew or other individual supporting the Class with $25 dues." Reason: to eliminate inconsistency between Rules and Constitution.

3.3 Delete: "A Sponsor is a corporation which has paid $500 or more in support of Class events or in newsletter ads, and is approved by the ExCom." Reason: Redundant with Class Constitution.

3.4 — Modify wording to read: "The J/105 Class Association, organizers of a J/105 one-design event or series, or those who put up a J/105 trophy within a handicap race or series, may designate the category (A,B, or C) of the primary helmsman as an Active Member of the J/105 Class, or an Associate Member:" Reason: Clarity.

5.3.6 - Modify wording to read: "Fine tune on tail of mainsheet, mounted over coarse tune block with maximum of 24:1 power ratio." Reason: to clarify that the fine-tune purchase is a maximum not finite purchase.

5.3.9 - Delete reference to Harken so that new wording reads: "Spinnaker sheet twings led to stanchion bases or midships padeyes, with additional Harken cam cleat (P&S) on cabin side." Reason: The rules are not intended to be brand specific on cam cleats.

5.3.12 - Add "Moving mainsheet swivel base fwd of traveler." Reason: to reflect published Tech Committee interpretation.

5.3.13 - Add "Helmsman foot braces." Reason: To permit flexibility in locating foot braces to suit different size helmspersons.

5.3.14 - Add: Non-factory tiller that when weighed with standard tiller head, tiller straps and fasteners is a minimum of 10.9 pounds. Reason: to allow shortening of the tiller and other owner modifications to improve safety and ergonomics, but without reducing the standard weight.

5.4.4 - Modify wording to read: "Light air spinnaker sheets." Reason: to reduce confusion over old terminology of "light spinnaker sheets."

6.4 - Modify first sentence of current rule to read: "The mainsail shall be manufactured from woven Dacron polyethylene terephthalate (PET), such as Dacron, of not less than 7 oz (300 grams per square meter) weight." Reason: To eliminate trade name.
Modify wording to read: "……………at least one serviceable reef point shall be installed no closer than 1830mm up from the tack." Reason: To reflect intent that the J/105 mainsail must be reefable.

6.5 - Modify wording to read: "The roller jib shall be constructed of either: 1) woven PET, or 2) a laminate consisting of PET film and PET or PEN (polyethylene naphthalate- such as Pentex) substrate restricted to Dacron, Mylar and/or Pentex of a weight not less than 6 oz.(257 grams per square meter) attached to and operated on the standard roller furling system using #6 luff tape with the following maximum dimensions measured between (and not extending beyond) bearing points of the three cringles: Luff -12150mm, a fair concave Leech - 11280mm, Foot - 4450mm and Mid-girth including luff tape - 2130mm." Reason: To eliminate trade names and reduce any potential confusion as to allowed materials. This proposal and that of 6.4 represent no change in intent for allowed materials in the mainsail and jib.

6.6 - Modify beginning of the first sentence to read: "The asymmetric spinnaker shall be manufactured from woven nylon with minimum nominal weight of not less than .75 oz. per running yard (8690mm wide) 42 grams per square meter with a maximum area of 77 square meters based on the formula: (SLU+SLE) * .25SF + (SMG-.5SF) * (SLE+SLU)/3 where SLU (luff) shall not be greater than 14900mm nor less than 13600mm, SLE (leech) shall not be greater than 11900mm and SMG (mid-girth) shall not be less than .65SF(foot). Add: Spinnakers manufactured prior to December 1, 1999 are subject to the previously published minimum nominal weight of not less that .75 oz. per running yard (8690mm wide) cloth weight.Reason- to ensure that all class spinnakers are made from what’s commonly known as 3/4 oz nylon. As the rule currently stands, the industry standard 3/4 oz nylon, after coatings are applied, can weigh .75oz. Other classes, like the J/24, use the same 42 grams per square meter. The addition is to grandfather spinnakers that satisfy the old requirement, but not the new one.

The following proposals are more substantive. Some reflect current practice in many fleets. Some are a result of the J/105 Technical Committee deliberations over recently requested interpretations.

3.4.4 — Change wording to read: "If no category is designated by the J/105 Class Notice of Race or schedule or by other notice 30 days prior to the event, then category B shall apply." Reason: most fleets are sailing under helmsman category B, but current Rules requires advance notice. New wording changes default category to B, meaning category A or C would have to be declared in advance.

3.4.5 - Change wording to read: "A Primary helmsman is defined for a closed course day races as a person who, excepting for momentary absence due to personal or shipboard needs, steers the yacht during the 5 minutes prior to and including the start, all windward legs, and on all mark roundings including until the finish." Reason: Proposed by San Francisco fleet to encourage overall helming skills, not "upwind" and "downwind" specialists. Coupled with new wording in 3.4.6 this still allows co-owners and other eligible helmsmen to steer alternate races during a series.

3.4.6 - Change wording to read: "There may be more than one primary helmsman steering a J/105 designated for an event."

6.2 — Delete current Rules 6.2 and 6.3. Replace with: "Sails carried aboard, or used during an event where J/105s are competing as a class amongst themselves shall be limited to one class mainsail, one class jib and two class asymmetrical spinnakers; provided that the second spinnaker shall only be used if the first or primary spinnaker is damaged or, if due to extreme wind conditions, the boat owner reasonably believes that such primary spinnaker will be substantially damaged or destroyed. If a second spinnaker is deployed, the primary spinnaker shall not thereafter be used in the same race." Reason: To permit owners to use a backup spinnaker in a race in which their primary spinnaker is disabled.

6.8 Modify wording to read: "Sail purchases are limited to one mainsail in any 24 month period, one jib and one asymmetric spinnaker, each in any 12 month period. A new boat purchaser is additionally permitted to purchase up to one used mainsail, one used jib and/or one used spinnaker ("used" defined as at least 6 months of sailing use) within the first year of ownership." Reason: The change in 6.2 biases the purchase rule in favor of older boat owners who already have back-up spinnakers. This change levels the field for new owners, and allows them to acquire a back-up spinnaker and beat-up working sails in their first year.

7.2 New Rule: "The bowsprit shall not be extended until the bow of the boat breaks the imaginary line drawn from the leeward mark or start line through the windward mark, on the windward side of the buoy. The bowsprit shall be retracted at the first reasonable opportunity after rounding the leeward mark." Reason: This was used successfully at Block Island 99 and the 1999 North Americans. It greatly reduces collisions at the windward mark.

The following proposals represent the most actively discussed items on the J/105 web site forum.

7.5 - New Rule: "The torso of the Primary helmsmen, while steering in a race, must at all times remain aft of the mainsheet traveler." Reason: Helmsmen on wheel-equipped boats are not capable of sitting in front of the traveler. By requiring all helmsmen to sit behind the traveler, it negates any potential advantage of using a tiller extension to move weight forward. While most helmsmen with tillers sit aft of the traveler it is possible with tiller extension to move as far forward as the primary winch. The Technical Committee carefully reviewed the tiller and wheel configurations and concluded that helmsman weight placement represented the greatest potential advantage of the tiller.

7.6 — New Rule: "When standard shoal draft and deep draft J/105s are racing together in a one-design fleet, the shoal draft yachts will receive a handicap credit of 12 seconds per mile for windward legs and 0 seconds per mile for offwind legs." Reason: There has previously been no allowance published in the rules, and this has caused much confusion amongst event organizers and race committees. In all events to date, the handicap of 6 seconds per mile has been applied around the race course. Experience has shown that the two keel configurations are even in speed offwind, but different speeds upwind. An "upwind only" rating will be much more equitable, especially when the course is an odd number of legs with an upwind finish.

5.3.12 - New Rule: "Existing (P&S) jib lead pin-stop cars and/or T-track may be replaced with a cockpit-adjustable jib sheet system including new track located in the same position and not exceeding the length of existing T-track, ball-bearing or low-friction slider cars with minimum SWL of 1000 kg, integral adjustment tackle not to exceed 4:1 power ratio, return shock cord, and cleats mounted on or near the aft cabin sides." While not specifically endorsed by the Technical Committee, there has been sufficient dialog on both sides of the adjustable leads issue to justify putting it to class vote. The following are FOR and AGAINST reasons:

FOR ADJUSTABLE LEADS

The class jib is required to perform over a wide range of conditions. To do this requires frequent adjustment to the jib lead with changes in wind strength, sea state, and wind angle whether racing or cruising. The current pin-stop equipment requires either two tacks or sending a crewmember to leeward to make the adjustment on the loaded sheet which risks crew injury and equipment damage. Switching from the current pin-stop cars to cockpit-adjustable cars will make this adjustment safer, easier, and quicker and is consistent with the "ease of handling", "safety", and "comfort" goals of the J/105 design.

The addition of cockpit-adjustable jib leads would made the sail controls for the jib comparable in technology and ease-of-use with other standard sail controls on the J/105 including the jib roller-furler, windward sheeting traveler car, Quick Vang, mainsheet fine trim, 6:1 outhaul, single-line reefing, and hydraulic backstay.

With cockpit-adjustable leads, you will be able to watch the sail as an adjustment is made and actually see the sail changing shape as the lead is moved. It is much easier to see the sail changing shape than it is to discern the difference in shape produced by two different lead positions on opposite tacks or after luffing the entire jib. The value of this kind of feed back as a learning tool is tremendous. New owners and crew will learn to sail the boat fast more quickly since the "cost" of experimenting with the lead position is reduced.

The addition of cockpit-adjustable jib leads is not an "inherently" speed-producing change. Instead, they allow the boat to be sailed closer to its optimum speed by permitting the lead position to be easily changed. Proper use of this adjustment will get the boat back to its optimum speed quicker and allow it to sail at it’s optimum speed more of the time. Current owners who feel comfortable in their ability to sail the boat competitively without this equipment would not suffer any inherent performance disadvantage from not replacing their existing equipment.

AGAINST ADJUSTABLE LEADS

According to J Boats, nearly all J/105s shipped from TPI since 1992 have had stock T-track with screw-pin cars installed as standard jib leads. There were some early owners (pre-class racing) who specifically requested adjustable leads for PHRF racing, and some others who made the change in the field, but at best guess this represents no more than 10% of the J/105s built. If the concept of the J/105 class is to maintain simplicity, then why pass a new equipment rule that would essentially force the other 90% of the owners to buy new gear. Being able to adjust the jib leads under load is a tremendous advantage in puffy conditions and when accelerating off the starting line or out of a tack. Anyone without adjustable leads would be at a boatspeed disadvantage.

While the costs to add adjustable leads ($300-1200) are minor when compared to the whole boat, it represents an additional expense to the boat owner to remain competitive. Perhaps the greater cost for the class as a whole, is the potential for class members to perceive class racing as unfair, or that one must optimize the boat to be competitive. Turmoil in other classes has often resulted from rules created to satisfy the vocal minority.

Should the class be trying to make the boat faster? A carbon rig, hi-tech sail materials, and larger jib and spinnaker would all make the J/105 go faster, but is the purpose of the class to optimize the boat’s performance or to ensure fair one-design racing. Based on the current J/105 rules, using adjustable leads while racing is not permitted. The few boats who are equipped with leads can stop off the cars to eliminate the adjustability under load — then restore the system for PHRF racing or other sailing. One-design J/105 racing without adjustable leads has been working for seven years. There’s no reason to change for the sake of change.

J/105 Rule Changes 1998

Clarifications

6.6 New Rule: The asymmetric spinnaker shall be manufactured from woven nylon with minimum nominal weight of not less than .75 oz. per running yard ...

Rationale: Some owners have misinterpreted the original rule to mean that you had to have a .75 oz. spinnaker. The intent was to say that .75 oz. was a minimum weight and that you could build your class spinnaker out of heavier material.

5.1 Old Rule: Standard furnishings, equipment, swim ladder, jib roller furler and dodger shall not be relocated or removed when racing.

5.1 New Rule: Standard factory supplied furnishings and equipment, including but not limited to the swim ladder, rib roller furling, dodger, emergency tiller (wheel boats only), 12 volt battery, igloo cooler, floor boards, four bunk cushions, and bulkhead door shall not be relocated or removed when racing.

Rationale: To clarify required equipment.

5.3.11 New Rule: Securing the v-berth cushions against the v-berth hull sides to reduce wear & tear and keep dry.

Rationale: Self-explanatory.

6.6.1 Old Rule: Adjustable Kevlar leech, luff and foot lines shall be fitted.

6.6.1 New Rule: Adjustable leech, luff and foot lines shall be fitted.

Rationale: Adjustable cords don't need to be Kevlar to perform their desired function.

2.2 Old Rule: The Executive Committee consists of the President, Secretary-Treasurer who acts for the President in absentia, and the Chief Measurer.

2.2 New Rule: The Executive Committee consists of one representative appointed by each J/105 Fleet (fleet must consist of at least 10 members), the copyright holder, and one "at large" fleet representative appointed by the copyright holder. Annually, the Executive Committee will elect a President, Secretary-Treasurer, and the Chief Measurer from its committee.

Rationale: To set up an efficient executive committee that represents the needs of all J/105 sailors.

6.5 Old Rule: The roller jib shall be restricted to Dacron and/or Mylar of a weight...

6.3 Old Rule: {No previous 6.3}

6.3 New Rule:A spare class spinnaker may be carried aboard during a one-design event, provided that the spare spinnaker shall only be flown if the primary spinnaker is substantially damaged, or if due to high wind conditions, the boat owner reasonably believes that the primary spinnaker will be substantially damaged or destroyed. Only one spinnaker may be flown during any race, even if that spinnaker is damaged during the race. A spare spinnaker may be flown in subsequent races if and only if the original spinnaker is damaged in such a way that it can not be economically repaired prior to the start of the next race.

J/105 Rule Changes 1997

3.1 New Rule: An Active voting member of the J/105 Class Association shall be a legal owner of a J/105 which complies with Class Rules and whose US$25 (for each owner or co-owner or helmsman) annual dues have been paid. Each yacht shall have one vote.

Rationale: Reduction from $50 to $25 has already been in effect. $25 per member has sufficiently covered the cost of two newsletters per year, hats, and prizes.

5.3.8 Old Rule: 5/16" U-bolt (P&S) on rail for jib reaching lead, midships mooring & twing fairlead.

5.3.9 Old Rule: Spinnaker sheet twings with additional Harken Cam Cleat (P&S) on cabin side.

5.3.8 New Rule: 5/16" U-bolt (P&S) outboard of standard jib track for barber-hauling.

5.3.9 New Rule: Spinnaker sheet twings led to stantion bases or midship padeyes, with additional Harken Cam Cleat (P&S) on cabin side.

Rationale: Change in wording, but no change in intent.

5.3.10 New Rule: Trimming the lazy windward jib sheet, or running a barberhauler through the cabin handrail to barberhaul the jib lead inboard.

Rationale: The first approximately 70 boats have jib tracks installed slightly outboard of the boats built since then. Allowing inboard sheeting (with no extra hardware installed) negates any perceived advantage of having older or newer boats.

7.4 Old Rule: To control mast rake, the headstay system length, measured between the centerline of pins at the stem and mast fitting, including roller furler fittings, shall not be greater than 13000mm nor less than 12950mm.

7.4 New Rule: To control mast rake, the headstay system length, measured between the centerline of the headstay pin on the mast to the intersection of the stem line and the sheer line at the bow, shall not be greater than 13035mm nor less than 12985mm.

Rationale: There has been some variance in the welded stemhead fitting, and as a result, the revised measurement is from the headstay pin to the stem/shear intersection. This eliminates all hardware variables and provides for a fairer measurement. The first 100 boats will likely not have to change headstay lengths. Since hull #100, owners will have to take up about 1" on the headstay drum.

J/105 Rule Changes 1996

6.6.2 Old Rule: "The official J/105 class snuffer is the ATN brand snuffer having an overall lenngth not less than 13800mm and not greater than 14900mm and a kevlar-reinforced, long oval hoop opening with outside dimensions of approximately 240x410mm. The snuffer shall be fitted and used."

7.1 Old Rule: "The maximum crew weight (in swimming apparel) for one-design racing is 400 kilograms with no limit on numbers of crew, or five people of unlimited total weight."