At their Annual General Meeting on 15^th January 2000, the Wanderer Class Owners Association approved a resolution increasing the maximum power of the kicker from the previous 6: 1 to a more powerful 12:1.

The change was brought in after consultation with the builders, Anglo Marine Services of Essex, sailmakers Dolphin, Hood and MacNamara, spar makers, Selden, and RYA Technical Manager, Ken Kershaw. It is supported by the designers, Proctor Partnership. The move is based on principles of good seamanship and aims to help less experienced and less physically powerful crews. No major technical problems are foreseen, and there are no significant cost implications.

Hopefully the change will enhance the ease of handling for both racing and cruising, without affecting the one-design ethos, and will encourage more sailors to try this safe and stable fourteen footer for cruising, racing or just pottering about. The simplest form of the new kicker is a cascade system cleated at the mast, but existing 3:1 or 6:1 systems can be easily modified. Controls can also be led aft.

The new kicker design will be on show on the Wanderer stand at the Sailboat and Windsurf Show at Alexandra Palace on 4^th and 5^th March 2000, Row B Block 2.More information from Gavin Barr on 01233 712543 email or visit our 12:1 kicker FAQ page..

Click here to see photos of both the 6:1 and 12:1 kicker  arrangements. 

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