Time out...

International 14 guru Paul Bieker takes a little time out from his responsibilities to the BMW Oracle design team to reflect on the 2005 14 worlds in New Zealand

Eighty three boats from seven nations attended this year's International 14 World Championships off Takapuna Beach just outside Auckland. The event was held from 7 to 19 February and included racing in the full range of conditions (5-25kt breeze, both flat water and waves).

I have been involved in the sailing, design and construction of 14s for about 15 years. After a work-induced hiatus of some three years, the regatta was a good opportunity for me to get involved with the class again. It was great for my head, good for my swimming muscles, and only moderately bruising to my pride!

I believe that the 14 class remains one of the most interesting of the skiff classes for a number of reasons...

To read the remainder of this and many other topical technical articles, please purchase your copy of the June 2005 edition of Seahorse International Sailing available at selected newsstands or by calling: + 44 (0) 1590 671899 or by email at: info@seahorse.co.uk

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