WORLD COUNCIL MEETING RIVA DEL GARDA, ITALY 5 to 7 OCTOBER 
I would first like to express the gratitude of the whole Class for the way Italy, led by Eros Angeli, hosted this meeting. It was brilliantly organised with much Italian flair and style, enabling the delegates to complete the Agenda in a thorough and professional way. In the evenings , the social arrangements were magnificent and there is no doubt that the Italian NJCA has demonstrated it has the commitment and talent to run a terrific World Championships in Sardinia next year.

I would also like to thanks all the delegates and Class Executives for their energy and diligence both before and after the meeting. Much important ground was covered, but I would like to highlight some general points.

It is most heartening to note that by last year’s revision of our administration, also underpinned by a more robust financial position, the Class officials were able to focus more on the future. In particular, the proposed changes to the building specification, giving the interior a more modern look with no performance impact are very welcome, as they will aid our builders to market new boats. To assist, the approval to implement Peter Weigandt’s Marketing Plan was pivotal, and I see this initiative as the most important as we approach our 30th Anniversary Year. It was also great to see 2 of or 3 builders present and making a full contribution to the debate.

The Rule change proposals were modest and many clarified existing rules. However, the results of the boat comparison project deserve special mention and this process will be taken forward carefully using a standard ISAF trial process.

All IJCA Members are encouraged to look out for the formal minutes of this WCM. They should also be aware that the Executive, Technical and Marketing Committees are already at work on the meeting’s outcomes which again will be drawn together in the form of an Annual Action Plan, and for the first time a Class Strategic Plan to encompass the next 15 years.

Overall, this was a very successful meeting; the Class is holding its own numerically World wide but we still have some unique features which give us the potential to grow and enjoy our sailing even more.

Bob Turner
Chairman IJCA