European Championships 2008 – Revised Result
- Details
- Created: Tuesday, 12 May 2009 18:57
- Written by Simon Lake
At the Pre- Worlds / European Championships held at Palermo, Italy last November the 1st and 2nd place finishers in the overall results were Ethan Bixby / Erik Boothe USA (7 points) and Jens Findel / Johannes Tellen GER (10 points).
The title of European Champion and the European Championship Trophy was awarded to Jens and Johannes based on the assumption that a Non-European resident was ineligible to be declared the winner.
This outcome has been challenged and the I.E.C. referred the matter to the Chairman of ISAF Rules Committee for a ruling.
After due scrutiny of the Class Rules, the Notice of Race and the Sailing Instructions, the ruling has determined that the event was an “Open” event with the lowest point scorer able to be declared the winner.
As a result of this ruling, Ethan Bixby and Erik Boothe have been declared “2008 European Champions” and the Class Records have been amended accordingly.
International Executive Committee, 12th May, 2009
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There is a lesson to be learned for the future planning of National, Regional or International events from this experience.
If any event is to be restricted in any way – any restrictions MUST be incorporated in the Notice of Race.
From my perspective as International President – I would advise against any such restrictions.
We are an International Class trying to encourage competition and attendance between Nations and Continents by as many Members, at as many events as possible.
It is my view that any Member of the International Association should be eligible to win any event for which his/her Entry Fee is accepted or he/she is qualified to enter.
But - If for any Local, Regional or National reason there is a desire to ensure that Trophies do not leave a Region / Country or for any other desired restriction, it is essential that the Notice of Race advises any potential entrants accordingly.
“Pip” Pearson - President
