RRS 2005-2008 WINDSURF EDITION

2007 Annual Report for the Techno 293 Class.

In May 2007 the Techno 293 Class was granted "International" Class status by ISAF.  The Class was born out of the Aloha Class, and underwent a transitional year in 2005 as the Aloha/Techno Class; and in 2006 as a "recognised" class.

"The Techno 293 Class is devoted to fostering the development of windsurf racing for competitors under the age of 17 years old around the world through the promotion of an inexpensive racing format."

The above statement is a quote from the T293 Class Rules -Introduction.  A simple analogy would be to see the T293 as the "Optimist" of the windsurfing classes. 

The T293 Class underpins the International Windsurfing Association (IWA) Racing Structure, supporting the senior and youth programmes of both the International Formula and International Raceboard classes.

The International Funboard Class (IFCA) supported the establishment of this "junior" class to support its development programme for slalom and speed disciplines.

Multi-brand support.  The T293 during this year was not a strict "one design" class, but a class with a combination of OD and "open" equipment (class) rules: a combination of Bic Techno 293 One Design board, and choice of rigs (ie mast, boom and sail) from an Approved Rig List.

This year's AGM  approved an RYA proposal to work with the industry to find a suitable "one-design" rig to be supplied equipment at the 2008 World Championship, as the next step towards becoming a one design class.

Events.  The year began with the "inaugural" European Championships for the class, hosted by the Andalusian Federation, in Cadiz. Other events were added to a growing international calendar of  "open" events.

Over 175 competitors from 13 countries, representing 3 continents, converged upon the beautiful island of Formentera for the 2007 Junior, Youth and Masters World Championships.

A great event to launch the class into its next phase of development.

 Ezio Ferin, Chairman.