For me personally and probably also for other yachtsmen in our class, but not only there, there has been a kind of animosity, perhaps resentment, separation, intolerance, exclusion instead of inclusion and friendly cooperation.
There is still talk of inclusion, equality and equal conditions for all. Is that so? Unfortunately, often not.
An example is the Para World Championship in The Hague/Brassemmermeer 2023. Inaccurate information created chaos, unjustice, misunderstanding. The Para World Championships were announced long in advance with only outline information. After officially registering for this event through the national sailing association, booking accommodation, securing a coach, boat etc., it was only after some time that it was made public that only one competitor per country could compete in this World Championships. – This is already the first exclusion... only after a long time did another competitor remember that he would like to participate, that he is a better sailor... that he has better results (last season he did a minimum of races). And the result - without a qualifying race, the National Association decided without any discussion or suggestions that the other one would go. Another exclusion - with the result that one is supposedly better, has the upper hand, so he doesn't even have to greet the "worse" ones.
This is just an example from a small country with a very limited number of competitors... in another country there is a problem between North and South, so I could go on...
That is why I welcome our initiative "Action4Europe" - a meeting of like-minded sailors and their companions. Unfortunately, I was a participant in only the second race at Bostalsee. The bar was set very high in every way – 23 participants from 9 European countries…fantastic facilities etc. Will it happen again? ...perhaps yes, the preparations for the Grand Prix on Lake Mácha continue intensively....I personally believe that most will understand that the exclusivity leads nowhere and will not help the 2.4mR class in any way.
Alexander Sadílek – CZE 4
Former Vice-President of the International Class 2.4mR Association
Unofficial secretary of the Czech 2.4mR Class Association
Interesting that Alexander shares the views of so many of us now. The Action4Europe initiative has brought these personal feelings to be an open subject for all to discuss and more important enjoy. Alexander mentions The Hague event or rather one on the Brassemeer. Surprise, surprise any thoughts of a one design event have been dashed as the ability to find these boats is impossible. Now the NOR will specify a Norlin mk3. I wonder what that is? Home built, professional build from the defunct builder, short keel, long keel – you must decide what it is and accept the boat differences. Why not have just said 2.4mR? Frightened as ever to understand the real restrictions the metre boat rule gives.