The start of one-design Lightning class race 



ever, to encourage competition between boats as close to identical as it 

 it reasonably possible to build them. There is a very definite place for 

 the development classes in which variations and innovations are allowed, 

 even encouraged, and a useful purpose is served by such classes, but as 

 the objects of a one-design and of a development class are different they 

 should be kept separate, and not confused. 



As we can see from Section II, many of the more popular one-designs 

 are represented by associations. These have been founded by owners 

 joining together for mutual protection and exchange of ideas. The asso- 

 ciation then draws up the measurements and specifications, and conducts 

 sanctioned class events. These may include local, regional, national and, 

 in some cases, world-championship regattas. A few associations are large, 

 formal affairs, administered by a paid executive secretary, while the ma- 

 jority are smaller and more informally run by a devoted group of class 

 owners. Most of them publish newsletters and yearbooks that are of great 

 interest and value to the owners. 



13 



