Desperately seeking solution...

'The Transpac 52 Rule is intended to produce a class of fast monohull keelboats. Reliability and self-sufficiency are primary objectives. It is accepted that this rule will be somewhat typeforming...' - Introduction to the TP52 Rule book

With an important slice of the racing world clamouring for a new grand prix rule many are 'suddenly' looking to the Transpac 52 to fill the gap. But is this really the longterm answer, or just another red herring? Designer Jim Donovan takes us inside the TP52 rule.

'Fast' is a relative term, but most people would agree that a 52-footer that sails at 8.5 knots upwind and can exceed 25 knots downwind, qualifies as fast enough. 'Reliability' is achieved with rules that define an uncomplicated yacht with rugged construction, high stability, a simple rig, and sensible construction. The parameters and restrictions of Transpac 52 Box Rule will type-form the yachts, and rule amendments to date have served to tighten the box further. The yachts all share the same length, weight, sail area, rig dimensions, keel draft, foil configuration, and general layout. After two years of various designers delivering their best creations the resultant yachts race as competitively as many one-design fleets.

In the beginning The Transpacific Yacht Club was looking to promote a new class of 50-foot yachts for the Los Angeles to Honolulu, Transpac race. Many of the parameters for the TP52 Box Rule were based on the Laurie Davidson 52, Pendragon, which was building as the rule was coming together. That design was conservative...

To read the remainder of this article please go to the September 2004 edition of Seahorse, available at selected newsstands or by calling: + 44 (0) 1590 671899 or by email at: info@seahorse.co.uk

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