The high cost of a competitive Marblehead led to the definition of the International One Meter (IOM) class. The intention of the class is to give freedom to develop the hull, keel, & rudder, but to ensure that rigs are as alike as possible. The three permitted rigs are one-design, while the hull and appendages are open to development. Displacement is 4.0 kg, LOA 1000 mm, and draft 420 mm. The large draft and the small sail area of the smallest rig permits an IOM to sail in winds up to 35 knots. This concept makes the IOM class the fastest growing class in the world.
Want to have one? There are three ways to become an IOM owner: buy, build or in between. Before you start cleaning the dinner table to build a model yacht, you should have a look at the pictures from building the boat you see above (GER 90). If you still want to start building, you should probably have a look at the UK Model Yachting Association's website for the Triple Crown design. Charles Detriche's "Arrow" and "Silver" designs are also available online.
IOM News:
- The 2006 IOM Nordic Championships were held at NJK Björkholmen during 26-27.5.06
- The 2006 IOM US Championships were held at Detroid Model Yacht Club during 4.-7.5.06
- The 2005 IOM World Championships were held in Australia during 15.-24.9.2005.
Other IOM related links:
- An endless source of IOM related information is Lester Gilbert's homepage.
- For further information on IOM visit the IOM USA National Class Association and the IOM International Class Association.
- Technical & theoretical aspects of RC yacht racing can be found on Lester Gilbert's webpages
Copyright (c) 2006 Thomas Rubbert. All rights reserved.