'A' Class Observations by an informed outsider

The article below was written, unsolicited, by Dr Ian Ward, the man who started with Foiling Moth long ago. Its purpose is to stimulate the future development of the A-Class Catamarans. The IACA Committee will not initiate any change of the class rules based on this document. If one or more National Association(s) would like to do so, then please follow the IACA Constitution and Class Rules. We can of course assist with the process. - The IACA Committee.

Context.
For 10 years during the 1990's, Dr Ward was World President of the International Moth class association and had a first hand view of the transition, firstly from scows to skiffs and then to foilers.

His interest has always been for the health of the class, while maintaining as active development as practical. Fortunately foiling proved a huge opportunity for Moths, although the current expense of new boats clearly remains a long-term issue for that class.

‘I have always admired the A-cats’ Dr Ward says, ‘And understand the dilemma foiling poses, as the class was very healthy before this development’. He therefore appreciates the necessity and difficulty in keeping practical restrictions on the development of foilers. The following article is merely intended to promote discussion of alternative ways for the class to continue to develop, both with foils, and without compromising the excellent health of the global fleet of non-foiling Classic A-cats. He says ‘I have no commercial interests and simply seek to foster the continued success of development classes such as the A class cats and Moth’.

Dr Ward is well respected in AUS, and can often be found actively sailing a Skeeta, a scow Moth and a 36' yacht.
This article was sent to us by Andrew Landenberger, who also happens to be his Brother-in Law.