This Document Should Contain Everything You Need to Know About Measurement Rules Etc

THIS DOCUMENT SHOULD CONTAIN EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT MEASUREMENT RULES ETC

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DABCHICK ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA

CONTENTS

Page PART 1 Introduction 1-1 PART 2 Constitution 2-1 PART 3 Membership and Registration 3-1 PART 4 Dabchick National Championship Trophies 4-1 PART 5 Class rules 5-1 PART 6 Measurement form 6-1 PART 7 Measurement procedure 7-1 PART 8 Dabchick construction - practical hints 8-1

Printing History Rules first published: - 1957

Action Year By Whom Handbook 1957 Technical Committee Revised 1982 Technical Committee Revised 1984 Technical Committee Revised 1992 Technical Committee Revised 1996 Technical Committee Revised 2005 Technical Committee Revised 2008 Technical Committee Refreshed 2014 Owen Baxter

DABCHICK ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA

PART 2 CONSTITUTION

1. Title The name of the Association shall be : "THE DABCHICK ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA". 2. Definitions: “SAS” South African Sailing “Council" the Council of South African Sailing. "DASA" the Dabchick Association of South Africa. "Committee" those persons elected to the committee of DASA in accordance with this constitution. 3. Object The object of DASA shall be to promote the development of the Dabchick class, the training of its members, and to ensure that the yachts in this class comply with the rules of the class as approved by the Council. 4. Membership The membership of DASA shall be open to all persons who are interested in the sport of yachting and who are younger than the maximum age limit. Membership expires on the day on which the member has their 19th birthday, or on the last day of a regatta of which the official starting date is before, and ends on or after, the day of their 19th birthday.”. Members of DASA shall also be members of SAS 5. Subscriptions There shall be no entrance fee. The committee shall determine the subscription which is to be paid into the funds of the Association. 6. Administration 6.1 DASA shall be administered by a Committee consisting of a Chairman and a minimum of four additional members who may be non-members of DASA. The Committee shall be elected annually at the Annual General Meeting of DASA. 6.2 The members present at the AGM shall elect a Chairman and a minimum of four additional persons to comprise the DASA committee. The additional persons shall each reside in a different Province. In the event of a vacancy occurring the remaining members of the Committee may appoint a suitably qualified person to fill such vacancy. 7. Powers of Committee The committee shall have full power to transact all the business of DASA and shall be required to keep all books, accounts, etc. which are necessary for the efficient administration of DASA.

8. General Meetings of DASA Annual General Meetings of DASA shall be arranged by the Committee. No more than 18 months shall be allowed to elapse between consecutive meetings. Twenty one days notice of such meetings shall be given. The business of the Annual General Meeting shall be :- 8.1 To receive and if thought fit to adopt a report by the Committee on the affairs of DASA. 8.2 To consider and if thought fit to adopt the Financial Statements of the Association as certified by SAS. 8.3 To consider and if thought fit to adopt any amendment of the constitution, of which notice shall be given together with the notice of the meeting. 8.4 To elect the committee. 8.5 Blank 8.6 To transact such further business as this constitution specifically authorises an Annual General Meeting of members to transact. 9. Special Meetings The Committee may convene other General Meetings of DASA at their discretion, and shall be obliged to call a General meeting upon receipt of a written request to do so from at least the number of DASA members as defined in Clause 11. Twenty-one days notice of such a meeting shall be given. 10. Quorum The quorum at any General Meeting shall be the minimum number of starters required to constitute a Junior National Championship. 11. Amendment of Constitution and Class Rules Any amendment of this Constitution or the Dabchick Class Rules shall require a two thirds majority of the voting members for its acceptance. All members will be given the opportunity to vote. 12. Postal Voting The Committee may arrange a postal vote to ascertain the views of members on changes to the class rules, or on other matters affecting the affairs of DASA. The Committee shall be obliged to arrange such a postal vote upon written request to do so from at least the number of members given as a quorum number. For a postal vote to be accepted by the Committee as valid, replies must be received from at least 15% of the members of DASA at the time. Where this percentage is attained, the committee shall regard a two thirds majority vote as representing the wishes of members of DASA in deciding any subsequent action to be taken. 13. Financial Year The financial year shall end on 31 December. 14. Technical Committee The Committee shall appoint a Technical Committee consisting of not less than three persons to advise on all technical matters relating to the Dabchick. The Committee may terminate their membership at any time.

DABCHICK ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA

PART 2 MEMBERSHIP AND REGISTRATION

1. Membership. Apply to South African Sailing for an application form for DASA membership.

If the handbook is also required ask the SAS office what is the current handbook fee.

Return the application form to SAS with the membership fee (and handbook fee). Your membership card ( and handbook ) will be posted to you. 2. Transfer of ownership. Apply to SAS for the appropriate form. Re-submit the completed form together with the measurement certificate obtained from the former owner. The endorsed measurement certificate will be returned to you. 3. Copy of measurement certificate. Apply to SAS who will issue a certified copy of the measurement certificate. Enquire from SAS as to the amount of the fee for the issuing of a copy and forward it with the application. 4. Dabchick Plans. Ask the SAS office what is current fee for a set of Dabchick plans.

It is strongly recommended that if you do not already have a Dabchick Handbook you obtain one at the same time, as it contains instructions on how to build a Dabchick, measurement schedule and Class Rules.

Send the Dabchick plan fee (and handbook fee) to the SAS office and the plans (and handbook) will be posted to you. 5. Registration and issue of NEW sail number. It is strongly recommended that you have a measurer check the hull measurements (section A of the measurement schedule) before completion of the boat. (A sail number may be issued if the measurer is satisfied that the hull conforms to the Class Rules.)

Take the completed boat to an appointed SAS Dabchick measurer for checking. A copy of the measurement schedule is included with the handbook.

On completion of the schedule, post it direct to the SAS for consideration by the DASA Technical Committee. If the boat conforms with the class rules, the measurement certificate will be issued.

DABCHICK ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA

PART 4 DABCHICK NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHIES

The following trophies will be competed for at the Dabchick National Championships.

0. THE DABCHICK NATIONAL FLOATING TROPHY Awarded to the winner of the National Championships 1. THE P. HERRIDGE TROPHY Awarded to the winner of the first race in the series. 2. THE TRANSVAAL SHIELD Awarded to the winner of the second race in the series. 3. THE ORANGE FREE STATE SAILING TROPHY Awarded to the winner of the third race in the series. 4. THE NATAL YACHTING ASSOCIATION TROPHY Awarded to the winner of the fourth race in the series. 5. THE EASTERN CAPE YACHT RACING ASSOCIATION TROPHY Awarded to the winner of the fifth race in the series. 6. THE WESTERN PROVINCE SAILING ASSOCIATION TROPHY Awarded to the winner of the sixth race in the series. (The Deed of Gift states that in the event of this trophy being won by the winner of the National Floating Trophy it shall be awarded to the helmsman placed second in this race. ) 7. THE ROSSAAK TROPHY Awarded to the winner of the seventh race in the series. 8. THE MITCHELL TROPHY Awarded to the winner of the eighth race in the series. 9. THE GETHING TROPHY Awarded to the winner of the ninth race in the series. 10. THE TANNER TROPHY Awarded to the winner of the tenth race in the series. 11. LANGHOUT TROPHY Winner of the eleventh race of the National Championships 12. SADLER TROPHY Winner of the twelfth race of the National Championships The deed of gift states that in the event that less than twelve races are sailed then the trophy shall be awarded to the highest placed helmsman participating in their first Dabchick Nationals.

13. GIRLS TROPHY Awarded to the highest placed girl in the series. 14. TWO-UP TROPHY Awarded to the highest placed helmsman sailing with one person as crew.

15. UNDER 15 TROPHY Awarded to the highest placed helmsman in the series under the age of 15 years. 16. ROYAL CUP Awarded to the competitor with the best score, counting all races, after the first three races have been completed. 17. PROVINCIAL TROPHY To be awarded to the province with the lowest aggregate of points of the the final results of the number of it's best placed competitors equal to the number of entries from the smallest competing province with the proviso that not less than three and not more than ten competitors shall be counted. A competing province with less than three competitors shall score DNC's for the shortfall. 18. NATIONAL INTERPROVINCIAL TEAM RACING TROPHY To be awarded to the provincial team which is the overall winner of an annual team racing event. Each provincial team shall consist of a maximum of five boats of which four shall sail in any race. Each province competing in the event shall sail at least one race against each other competing province. 19. KNOWLES NATIONAL SAILING TROPHY Best 4th place Dabchick or Optimist at the National Championships

20. KOPER KNOTTING BOARD (Presented by the Koper family at the 50th Anniversary) To be awarded to the best performing Dabchick Skipper – Nationals to Nationals The winner should be calculated based on the results of all the Provincial events including the current National result.

DABCHICK ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA

PART 5 DABCHICK CLASS RULES

1. The object of these rules is to establish a class of boat which is one-design in all matters which affect the basic speed. The rules shall be interpreted in this spirit. All boats shall be built to conform with the class rules. 2. Builders shall not attempt to get around the spirit or the letter of these rules. The rules are complementary to the measurement form. In the event of any discrepancy between the rules and the measurement form, the matter shall be referred to the DASA Technical Committee for a ruling. In addition any items found by the measurer to be not specifically sanctioned by these rules shall also be referred for a ruling. 3. It is the responsibility of the owner to see that the boat is properly measured and to see that it thereafter always remains in class even after alterations, additions or rebuilding have been carried out. 4. Since it is unlikely that these rules can cover in detail every possible eventuality, builders are strongly advised to clear doubtful points with DASA Technical Committee before starting construction, to avoid the possibility of boats being subsequently outclassed. 5. Measurers shall be appointed by SAS. 6. Boats shall be complete in every respect with all necessary gear when presented for measurement, except that sails may be measured separately. 7. The measurer shall complete the measurement schedule by filling in the blank spaces.

The form shall be signed by the measurer and sent to DASA c/o SAS. Subject to the approval of the Technical Committee, SAS shall be requested to issue a measurement certificate.

This certificate or photostat copy, shall be taken to all official Dabchick Regattas and is to be produced upon official demand. If the boat does not measure correctly, no certificate shall be issued. If it is impossible for an error to be corrected then the forms shall be submitted to the Technical Committee for its ruling. Owners shall endeavour to have the boat corrected and re-measured before submission of the form. 8. New owners should satisfy themselves that they are buying a fully certified boat. A buyer of a second-hand boat shall take over the responsibility of keeping the boat in class and he must immediately inform DASA of his new ownership. The certificate does not become valid for the new owner until transferred by SAS. 9. The boat's official number shall be permanently carved into the transom in figures not less than 20 mm high. After it has passed the measurement, each sail shall be stamped, signed and dated legibly by the measurer near the head of the sail. 10. No boat is permitted to race in the class unless it has a valid measurement certificate. 11. Only the owner of the boat, the measurer and the measurer's assistants may be present during measuring.

12. A measurer shall not measure a boat built by himself, if he is the owner, or if he is in some way an interested party. 13. Only members of DASA may race a Dabchick. 14. Regardless of age, the helmsman shall have the option to race either one or two-up, providing always that the number of crew on board at the first race in a series shall not be changed during that series. 15. Approved life jackets shall be worn when racing. 16. No means of supporting the crew outboard, other than toestraps, are permitted. 17. The mainsail shall be set between the coloured bands on the mast and boom when racing. HULL 18. Hulls shall only be constructed of wood and/or glass reinforced plastic. No carbon fibre or kevlar materials may be used. 19. Hulls shall follow the general arrangement shown in the plans except where added to or varied by these rules. 20. All hull measurements are exclusive of any rubbing strakes. 21. A general tolerance of +- 15 mm is allowed for all measurements unless otherwise stated. 22. Hull upright a) Overall length from transom to outside of bow 3607mm b) Length from transom to centre of jib attachment 3457mm c) The length of the jib attachment fitting (max) 40mm d) Length from transom to centre of mast step 2697mm e) Length of mast step (max) 150mm f) The deck along the centre line shall be straight from bow to transom. 23. Beam Measurements a) transom 641mm b) 710 mm from transom 895mm c) 1625 mm from transom 1100mm d) 2235 mm from transom 1150mm e) 2850 mm from transom 1073mm f) 3300 mm from transom 915mm 24. Position of centreboard case - distance from transom a) to aft end of case 2210mm b) to forward end of case 1651mm 25. Width of centreboard case (max) 26mm 26. a) Perimeter of one half of bow, measured from centre line along outer edge of deck to a point 3300 mm from transom (max) 635mm b) Vertical height of bow measured in centre line (max) 50mm 27. Depth of hull at middle of centreboard case 267mm 28. Any rubbing strake or deck overhang shall not exceed the following measurements: vertically 15 mm and horizontally from hull 30 mm. 29. At transom a) Depth of transom centre excluding skeg 114mm b) Depth of transom sides 64mm c) Skeg, if fitted, maximum length 300mm maximum depth below keel 30mm

30. Hull upside down a) Distance from transom (mm) 710 1625 2235 2850 3300 b) Depth from keel to gunwale (mm) 184 235 242 203 118 c) Depth from keel to chine (mm) 95 133 140 114 73 31. The hull shall be weighed with permanently attached fittings, toestraps and hatch covers included, cordage excluded. The minimum hull mass shall be 38,6 kg. 32. If the hull weighs less than 38,6 kg, correctors shall be attached, adjacent to the mast step either above or below deck. The mass of the correctors shall not exceed 5 kg. 33. Daggerboard - shall float and be rectangular in shape except that the corners may be rounded. a) Width (max) 279mm b) Thickness 100 mm from any edge (min) 16mm c) Depth below keel when fully lowered perpendicular to deck centre line. (max) 647mm d) The daggerboard shall be attached to the hull by a lanyard. 34. Rudder - the rudder may be lifting or fixed and may be constructed of aluminium or wood. It may be covered with glass reinforced plastic. 35. Thickness below the waterline 50 mm from any edge of the rudder. 3 mm minimum for aluminium 9 mm minimum for wood 36. a) Rudder depth below bottom of transom (max) 410mm b) Rudder width (max) 203mm 37. There shall be a fitting to prevent the rudder falling off if the boat is upside down. 38. a) Mast and boom-the spars may be made of any materials except carbon fibre or kevlar. b) The mast rake shall not be altered during a race. c) Permanently bent spars are prohibited. d) Rotating masts are optional. 39. Spars, excluding fittings, must be able to pass through a tube of 78 mm inside diameter, 300 mm long. ( For the purpose of this rule - a sail track which is not an integral part of the spar, i.e. it is for example riveted on, and which does not project more than 25 mm above the mating surface, will be considered to be a fitting. ) 40. Bands of contrasting colour to the spar, minimum 15 mm wide, shall be painted round the spar as follows : a) Mast from deck to top edge of lower band measured (max) 762mm perpendicular to deck centre line from lower band top edge to upper band lower edge (max) 3480mm b) Boom from aft face of mast excluding sail track to forward edge (max) 2159mm of band. 41. Miscellaneous items : Breakwaters are optional. 42. Transom holes are optional. The maximum number in the transom is two, maximum diameter 30 mm.

43. a) Mainsheet travellers are optional. b) All fittings shall be attached to the external surfaces of the hull and may not be

recessed in any way, except the following :

(1) chain plates, which must be fitted within 10 mm from the external side of the hull. (2) forestay fitting may pass through the deck. 44. Buoyancy a) Hatches are optional but if fitted shall be of a threaded type and the hull shall remain watertight under sailing conditions. b) Boats constructed of glass reinforced plastic shall have the same positive buoyancy as that of a wooden boat. 45. SAILS a) Sails shall be constructed from Polyester materials and classified as Soft Sails made from a Single Ply which is either a Woven Ply or a Laminated Ply or both (Words in italics defined in the ISAF ERS.) b) Headboard in the mainsail, excluding bolt ropes shall not exceed 115 mm measured square to the mast. No headboard is allowed in the jib. c) Only the jib may have a transparent window. d) The sails shall be measured as per the ISAF sail measurement instructions.

46. Mainsail : The mainsail shall conform to the following measurements : a) half height width excluding luff bolt rope (max) 1485mm b) leech (max) 3810mm c) battens - 3 in number, approximately equally spaced along the leech. - Length of batten (max) 610mm d) Dabchick insignia and numbers shall be not less than 200 x 140 x 30mm e) conventional and loose footed mainsails are permitted.For loose footed sails the distance from the head to the midpoint of the foot shall not exceed 3750 mm. (max) f) Optional: Top Batten. The top batten of the battens described in 45 c) above may be replaced by one conforming to the following length from head of sail to top of batten pocket down luff (min) 960mm length of top of batten pocket from luff to leech (max) 1080mm The numbers shall conform to the requirements of the ISAF Racing Rules 47. Jib : The jib shall conform to the following measurements : a) Luff and leech (max) 2667mm b) Foot (max) 1473mm c) Centre measurement from highest point of sail on the luff to the lowest edge of the sail at the mid point of the foot. (max) 2720mm d) Optional window, size (max) 3000 sq.cm The window shall be no nearer than 150mm from any sail edge. 48. A single track adjustable fairlead may be fitted on the port and starboard deck. No barber haulers are allowed.

49. Sails and spars used in the first race of a series shall not be changed during the series. In the event of irreparable damage the written permission of the race committee shall be obtained before substitution.

50. a) The Dabchick may be built by any professional builder. b) Professional builders shall be responsible for supplying boats complying with the class rules. c) The builder at his own expense shall arrange for the measurement of the hull/spars/sails supplied by him prior to the end user taking possession of the boat. d) Professional builders wishing to construct the hull in fibre reinforced plastic (glass fibre) shall follow the following procedure The plug shall be measured before a prototype is constructed Once approved, a mould shall be constructed and a prototype lifted. The prototype shall be measured and approved by the DASA Technical Committee at the builders expense. Once approved production hulls may be lifted from the mould and shall be deemed to comply with measurement rules except that the first five and thereafter every 10th production hull shall be measured to ensure the mould remains true. Should it be expected that the mould may no longer comply, the DASA Technical Committee shall have the right to recall the last constructed boat and perform a complete measurement procedure.

DABCHICK ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA

PART 6 DABCHICK CLASS MEASUREMENT SCHEDULE

Name of Yacht ______

Owner ______

Address ______

______

Owner's Club ______

Name of Measurer ______

Name of Builder ______

Sail Number ______( The sail number will be allocated after the Measurer is satisfied that the hull conforms to the Class Rules - Section A of this schedule. )

EXTRACT OF RULES Rule No: 1. The object of these rules is to establish a class of boat which is one-design in all matters which affect the basic speed. The rules shall be interpreted in this spirit. All boats shall be built to conform with the class rules. 2. Builders shall not attempt to get around the spirit or the letter of these rules. The rules are complementary to the measurement form. In the event of any discrepancy between the rules and the measurement form, the matter shall be referred to the DASA Technical Committee for a ruling. In addition any items found by the measurer to be not specifically sanctioned by these rules shall also be referred for a ruling. 3. It is the responsibility of the owner to see that the boat is properly measured and to see that it thereafter always remains in class even after alterations, additions or rebuilding have been carried out. 18. Hulls shall only be constructed of wood and/or glass reinforced plastic. No carbon fibre or kevlar materials may be used. 20. All hull measurements are exclusive of any rubbing strakes. 21. A general tolerance of +- 15 mm is allowed for all measurements unless otherwise stated. This form when completed should be forwarded to: The Dabchick Association of South Africa c/o SAS PO Box 5036 8000 CAPE TOWN

SECTION A | Rule | Should | Actual | No | be mm | mm Hull ( right way up ) | | | Deck along centreline to be straight from bow to transom. | 22(f) | | Yes/No Length overall | 22(a) | 3 607 | Length from transom to centre of jib attachment | (b) | 3 457 | Length of jib attachment (max) | (c) | 40 | Length from transom to centre of mast step | (d) | 2 697 | Length of mast step (max) | (e) | 150 | | | | Length from transom to forward end of centreboard case | 24(b) | 2 210 | Length from transom to aft end of centreboard case | 24(a) | 1 651 | Width of centreboard case (max) | 25 | 26 | Depth of hull at middle of centreboard case | 27 | 267 | | | | Beam at transom | 23(a) | 641 | Beam 710mm from transom | (b) | 895 | Beam 1625mm from transom | (c) | 1 100 | Beam 2235mm from transom | (d) | 1 150 | Beam 2850mm from transom | (e) | 1 073 | Beam 3300mm from transom | (f) | 915 | | | | Perimeter along outer edge of deck from centre line | | | to a point 3300mm from transom of one half of bow (max) | 26(a) | 635 | Vertical height of bow measured on centreline (max) | 26(b) | 50 | Rubbing strake if fitted vertical and horizontal (max) | 28 | 15x30 | | | | A single track adjustable fairlead may be | 48 | | Yes/No fitted on the port and starboard deck. | | |

Hull ( upside down ) | | | At transom: | 29 | | Depth of transom centre (excl skeg) | (a) | 114 | Depth of transom sides | (b) | 64 | Skeg, if fitted, length, depth below keel (max) | (c) | 300x30 | At 710mm from transom: | 30 | | Depth from keel to gunwale | | 184 | Depth from keel to chine | | 95 | At 1 625mm from transom: | 30 | | Depth from keel to gunwale | | 235 | Depth from keel to chine | | 133 | At 2 235mm from transom: | | | Depth from keel to gunwale | | 242 | Depth from keel to | | 140 | At 2 850mm from transom: | | | Depth from keel to gunwale | | 203 | Depth from keel to chine | | 114 | At 3 300mm from transom: || | | Depth from keel to gunwale | | 118 | Depth from keel to chine | | 73 |

In the case of the deck or hull planking being chamfered the measurement shall be taken to be that which would have been measured had no chamfering taken place.

| Rule | Should | Actual | No | be mm | mm | | | Spars | | | Permanently bent spars are prohibited. Spars are straight? | 38(c) | | Yes/No Must pass through a tube 78mm diameter x 300mm long, | | | excluding fittings | 39 | | Yes/No (riveted track not exceeding 25mm high is a fitting) | | | | | | Coloured bands minimum 15mm wide in a contrasting | | | colour to the spars must be painted as follows : | | | | | | Mast: From deck to top edge of lower band | | | perpendicular to deck centre line (max) | 40(a) | 762 From top edge lower band to lower edge upper band (max) | 40(a) | 3 480 | | | Boom: From after face of mast, | | | excluding track to leading edge of band (max) | 40(b) | 2 159 | | | | Sails | | | Sails shall be constructed from Polyester materials and classified as Soft Sails made from a Single Ply which is either a Woven Ply or a Laminated Ply or both (Words in italics defined in the ISAF ERS.) | 45(a) | | Yes/No Mylar is permitted | | | | Mainsail | | | Width of headboard, excluding boltrope | | | measured square to the mast (max) | 45(b) | 115| Half height width folded, excluding boltrope (max) | 46(a) | 1 485 | Leach (max) | (b) | 3 810 | Optional - loose footed, head to midpoint of the foot (max) | (e).| 3 750 | Battens, 3 in number, approximately equally | | | spaced along the leach - length (max) | 46(c) | 610 | | | | Dabchick insignia and number shall be clearly visible, | | | legible, of a single colour which strongly contrasts | | | with the sail, and shall correspond to the registered | 46(d) | | number as carved in the transom - size (min) | 200x140x30 | Yes/no No window is allowed | 45(c) | Note | Optional: Top Batten. The top batten of the battens described in 45 c) above may be replaced by one conforming to the following length from head of sail to top of batten pocket down luff (min) 960mm length of top of batten pocket from luff to leech (max) 1080mm | | | Jib | | | Luff (max) | 47(a) | 2 667 | Leach (max) | (a) | 2 667 | Foot (max) | (b) | 1 473 | Centre measurement from highest point on luff | | | to mid point of foot (max) | (c) | 2 720 | Optional window is allowed. Size in sq. cm. (max) | (d) | 3 000 | From any edge (min) | (d) | 150 | No battens or headboard allowed. | | Note |

I, the undersigned, declare that I have carefully examined the construction of this boat and in my opinion it has been built in accordance with the Dabchick class rules and the provisions of this measurement schedule.

DATE: ______Signed - SAS Appointed Dabchick Measurer

DABCHICK ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA

PART 7 MEASUREMENT PROCEDURE FOR DABCHICK CLASS BOATS

Dabchicks shall be measured by a SAS appointed measurer. In order to achieve consistent and accurate results the Measurers are to follow the procedure laid down here. The measurement is intended to be made in the order given on the official measurement form. The object of these instructions is to ensure that all boats are measured in exactly the same way. Equipment needed for the measurement of a Dabchick :- 1) SAS measurers' stamp. 2) A 5 metre tape. 3) Callipers of the outside type. 4) One 1.5 metre straight batten. 5) Weighing machine capable of weighing up to 50kg accurate to 0.1kg. 6) Copy of the class rules and the measurement form. 7) A copy of the plans and the ISAF sail measurement rules may also be useful. GENERAL The hull shall be complete when presented for measurement. The Dabchick class yacht must be built according to the class rules, the object being to ensure that all yachts in the class shall be as nearly alike as possible. The measurements shall be taken in accordance with the official rules. Measurers shall look for variations in measurements from the rules even if not specifically mentioned in the measurement schedule. Measurers may ignore normal wear and tear on old boats if, in their opinion, the basic speed is unaffected. If the measurer considers that there has been an attempt to depart from the design measurements, he is to report the matter to the Association. Tolerances are laid down to allow for errors in building, but intentional variations within these tolerances are not allowed. Unless otherwise specified all tolerances shall be within +/-15mm. To help in expediting the issue of the measurement certificate, the measurer could assist by requiring the owner and/or builder to rectify any errors which are outside the permitted tolerances, prior to completing the measurement schedule and forwarding to SAS. If requested, the sail number may be allocated on completion of the hull measurements, provided there are no constructional errors. HULL MEASUREMENTS The measurement must be started with the boat the right way up. The overall length is measured on the centre line of the boat. The next item is to mark the beam measurement stations on the deck. Beam measurements exclude any rubbing strake. Perimeter of one half of bow is measured round the bow from centreline to a point 3300mm from the transom. It is a maximum measurement. HULL UPSIDE DOWN Mark the positions for measurement on the bottom, making the measurements on a line parallel to the centre line of the deck, on the centre line and sides. Use the straight edge batten, as in the diagram. Fibreglass tape over the joints should be accommodated within the prescribed measurements. HULL MASS A guaranteed weighing machine should be used. The measurer must ensure that the hull is dry and free from sand etc. All loose gear, not permanently attached to the hull, must be removed

prior to weighing. Mass correctors must be fitted adjacent to the mast step. BOAT ON ITS SIDE The daggerboard and rudder projections below the hull are measured on a line at right angles to the deck centreline. EQUIPMENT Callipers should be used to check the thickness of the daggerboard and rudder. When measuring the spars, it should be noted that intentionally bent spars are prohibited but this does not preclude tapering. SAILS GENERAL Sails are to be measured in accordance with the ISAF sail measurement rules. The following notes are obtained from the 1993 version. In the case of doubt, the latest full instructions should be referred to, or the technical committee consulted. The "sail" shall include headboard, clewboard, reinforcement, bolt ropes. It shall not include parts of fastening such as cringles, hanks, slides etc. which are outside the edges of the sail. When measured a sail shall :- be dry, not be attached to spars or rigging, have all battens removed, have just sufficient tension applied to remove wrinkles across the line of measurement being taken. Sails shall be made of single ply woven fibre cloth. When a woven ply is torn it will be possible to separate the fibres without leaving evidence of film. Reinforcement of sail is permitted only at a corner of the sail and at the Cunningham. Reinforcement size is measured from the relevant corner measurement point or Cunningham. Primary reinforcement ( unrestricted number of additional ply ) for the Dabchick shall be less than 250mm for all sails. Secondary reinforcement ( not more than two additional ply of the same material as the body of the sail ) for the Dabchick shall be less than 750mm for all sails. DEFINITIONS:- Head point The intersection of the luff extended if necessary and the line through the highest point of the sail perpendicular to the luff. Clew point The intersection of the foot and the leach, each extended if necessary. Tack point The intersection of the foot and the luff, each extended if necessary. Mid foot point The point on the foot equidistant from the tack point and the clew point

MAINSAIL a) The length of the leech for the purpose of measurement shall be the straight line distance between the head point and clew point of the sail. Maximum length 3810mm. b) The midpoint of the luff shall be determined by folding the sail upon itself, with the head point even with the tack point. The midpoint of the leech shall be determined with the head point even with the clew point. The half height width folded shall be the distance between the midpoints of the luff and the leech with the sail laid on the floor with just sufficient tension to remove the wrinkles. The bolt rope shall be excluded. Maximum measurement 1485mm. c) The headboard shall be measured square to the mast, excluding bolt rope and shall not exceed 115mm. d) Battens shall have a maximum length of 610mm. Optional: Top Batten. The top batten of the battens described in 45 c) above may be replaced by one conforming to the following length from head of sail to top of batten pocket down luff (min) 960mm length of top of batten pocket from luff to leech (max) 1080mm e) Dabchick insignia - minimum size 200 x 140 x 30 mm f) Sail numbers shall be : clearly visible, legible, and of a single colour which strongly contrasts with the sail, capital letters and arabic numerals with line that are continuous, upright or with a slope of not less than 10:1 (10 vertical to 1 horizontal ) relative to a line through their base. g) Sails shall be constructed from Polyester materials and classified as Soft Sails made from a Single Ply which is either a Woven Ply or a Laminated Ply or both ( Words in italics defined in the ISAF ERS.) JIB a) The length of the luff ( maximum 2667mm ) shall be the distance between the head point and the tack point. b) The length of the leech ( maximum 2667mm ) shall be the distance between the head point and the clew point. c) The length of the foot ( maximum 1473mm ) shall be the distance between the clewpoint and the tack point. d) Centre measurement ( foot median ) The foot mid point shall be determined with the tack point even with the clew point. The length of the centre measurement shall be taken as the distance between the head point and the lowest edge of the sail at the foot mid point. This measurement shall not exceed 2720mm. e) No battens or headboards are allowed.

INTERPRETATIONS by the TECHNICAL COMMITTEE To aid Measurers the DASA Technical Committee interpretations on various Class Rules are given below :- RULE 21 The general tolerance of +- 15mm is interpreted to mean 15mm above or below the measurements stated in the rules, except where a maximum or minimum measurement is stated (1/96 ) 22b For this rule the 'jib attachment' is interpreted as the fitting to which the jib and forestay are attached to the deck (1/96) 22f This rule is interpreted as follows, the deck should not deviate in the vertical plane from a straight edge, if such a straight edge were placed along the centre line on the deck, from transom to bow, taking into account the general tolerance allowed (1/96 ) 31 The main sheet block, and any fitting that |can| be removed from the chain plates that are permanently attached to the boat ( glued, bolted ), must be removed before the boat is weighed. (1/96) If the boat mass is to checked ( at an event and not for measurement certificate purposes ) the boat may be weighed with the main sheet block as long as due allowance is made for the block mass. ( If the boat is only 500gm over the allowed mass, then the measurer can ask for the block to be removed. If the boat is 5Kg over - the block mass is inconsequential.) (1/96) 33 As the Class Rules do not specify material of construction - only that the daggerboard float - wood covered by GRP would be acceptable.

DABCHICK ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA

PART 8 DABCHICK BUILDING NOTES

These building notes are designed for the person who has never built a Dabchick before, but may have useful tips for the experienced builder. It is recommended that the first time builders have a careful look at competitive Dabchicks and talk to the owners of these boats with reference to any good or bad pointers, and to do this frequently while building their boat. 1. MEASUREMENTS AND MATERIALS 1.1 All measurements on the plan have a 15mm tolerance on either side, except where a maximum or minimum is stated. The wood sizes are only recommendations. 1.2 4mm Plywood is recommended to keep the weight down, but 6mm plywood may also be used with fewer stringers. 1.3 ABE Epidermix 372 and 365 are recommended for the glueing work. 372 on stringers and 365 on the ply edges and surfaces. 1.4 ABE Epidermix 389 is recommended for painting of inside of hull and underside of deck. 1.5 Material Requirements: a) Sheets of Marine Ply 2440 x 1200 4½ sheets b) Meranti centre board framing 15 x 12 x 900 4 off reqd. c) Meranti forward spine framing 12 x 12 x 1500 4 off reqd. d) Meranti forward spine framing 12 x 12 x 1750 4 off reqd. e) Meranti edge stringers 12 x 12 x 3500 4 off reqd. f) Juluton bottom stringers 18 x 12 x 3800 4 off reqd. g) Juluton bottom stringers 18 x 12 x 2750 4 off reqd. h) Juluton top stringers 12 x 12 x 3650 4 off reqd. I) Juluton top stringers 12 x 12 x 2650 2 off reqd. j) Juluton seating stringers 12 x 12 x 1100 8 off reqd. k) Formica (suggested lining to centre board case) 600 x 600 1 off reqd. l) Jig 3700 x 1100 wide 1 off reqd.

with positions of bulkheads, A,A1,B,C,D,E and bow located in relation

to transom. A number of clamping devices are required to keep spine

straight and flat on jig as well as maintaining cross frames in position.

N.B. Ensure that jig has adequate strength to take heavy loading from bricks/sand bags when fixing underside and deck to frames. It is recommended that the sheets of ply are weighed before purchase, as their mass can vary considerably. A mass of less than 5kg per 3mm sheet is desirable.

2. PREPARATION 2.1 Cutting wood for framing and stringers : If you have access to a radial-arm or circular saw and wish to cut the wood yourself, it is recommended that you save by buying rough wood in the size 30 x 150 x 3850 mm which can be cut down easily. 2.2 Plywood and cutting lines for the bulkheads : 4mm plywood is used for the bulkheads because it is lighter and easier to use accurately. Draw all the bulkheads on a sheet of plywood as shown on the plans. 4mm should be subtracted from the bulkhead measurements for bulkheads A,B,C,D,E and Transom to allow for the sides, deck and bottom skins. 8mm should be subtracted from the bulkhead measurement for bulkhead A1, to allow for butt joint backing plus sides, deck and bottom skins. 2.3 Centreboard case : Varnish the inside of the centreboard case before you glue the two halves together. Formica glued to the centreboard ply can be used as an alternative to varnishing as it is maintenance free and provides added strength to centre board case. Glue top and bottom stringers to both sides of centreboard case allowing end projections to form joint with forward and aft spine. The stop-ends to centreboard case should be grooved to allow the ply forward and aft spines to be securely glued to them. The two halves of the centreboard case plus the stop-ends are glued together. Ensure that the inside of the centreboard case is not twisted when you glue the two halves together. 2.4 Forward and Aft Spines : Use 4mm ply for the spines and frame the top and bottom with Meranti stringers. Provide semi-circular cut-outs for bulkheads. (These are positioned at the measurement stations). Provide lightening holes taking into account the positions of the mast step strengthening and jib attachment fixing blocks. 2.5 Bulkheads : 12 x 12 Framing strips should be glued to bottom of bulkheads to increase the glueing surface with the bottom. a) Cut the slots for the top and bottom stringers, side stringers, and spine. b) Cut holes in each bulkhead for about 40% of its area to reduce its mass. c) A 12 x 12 Jelutong framing strip should be glued round the edge of the transom to increase the glueing area. The strip should overhang the ply and be sanded to correct angle to suit incoming angles of sides and bottom. When putting in the stringers you should only cut grooves in the Jelutong and not the ply. d) Fit a central hardwood block on the transom for the rudder pintles or gudions. This should be slotted to provide for the fitting and glueing of the aft spine to the transom. NB. Extreme care should be exercised when forming this connection as the forces on pintles and gudions are very high!! It is suggested that only the best pintles and gudions are used for the rudder as cheap varieties are prone to failure.

3. FITTING THE FIRST PARTS OF THE BOAT ON THE JIG Contact your Association to try to borrow a jig, otherwise make one. 3.1 Ensure that the jig is level. 3.2 Glue the forward and aft spines to the centre board case and fix this assembly to the jig, ensuring that the top of the spine is straight. 3.3 Glue the bulkheads into the spine, then attach the bulkheads to the jig. Check that bulkheads are upside down and that the larger side of centre board case is in front. 3.4 Glue the transom hardwood block to the aft spine and fix the transom into position on the jig. NB. Ensure that bulkheads are at correct measurement stations and that the edge height of frames above jig are identical on either side. 4. FITTING THE BOW TO THE JIG 4.1 The Bow is made by laminating strips of 4 x 4mm ply = (16mm) together. The grain of the bow strips must be vertical to enable one to bend them sufficiently. Adequate retaining stop blocks should be fixed to jig so as to ensure correct curvature of bow. 4.2 Laminate the bow strips into position allowing outside ply to pass aft of the bulkhead E and the 3 inside plys to stop at bulkhead E. Half the perimeter of the bow is 637mm (maximum length allowed), measured around the outside edge, from 3300mm from transom (bulkhead E) to the front centre of the bow. Screw front centre to spine. Screw through bulkhead E into the 3 ply layer that has stopped short. 5. ATTACHING THE STRINGERS 5.1 Stringers should be flush with bulkheads except that stringers at the A1 bulkhead stick out by 4mm. 5.2 Work from the inside out so as to prevent buckling of bulkheads. 5.3 Use wire as a clamp to hold the stringers in place when glueing them. 5.4 Stringers aft of bulkhead A1 and forward of bulkhead D are tapered to approximately half thickness so as to reduce weight. 5.5 Hold the stringers at the bow in place with a strip of wood over the stringers, at about 90 degrees to the stringers, held in place by a clamp. 5.6 Recess stringers by 4mm at frame A1 and use 4mm ply backing for supports for the bottom and side. 5.7 Check the measurements of the bulkhead widths.

6. ATTACHING THE SIDES 6.1 Chain plates are bolted to hardwood backing strips between top and bottom side stringers and are fitted before sides are glued into position. This positions the chain plates inboard of side ply. 6.2 Glue the sides to the side stringers and bulkheads. Clothes pegs can be used as clamps while glueing on the sides. 7. PREPARING THE FRAME FOR THE BOTTOM SHEETS OF PLY 7.1 a) Cut the sides down to the level of the bulkheads at each bulkhead/side joint. b) Shape the sides with an even curve. c) Shape the stringers level with the sides. d) Shape the keelson level with the stringers and the side. 7.2 (DO NOT FORGET!) Cut the water grooves in the bulkheads. These are positioned on the high side and directly adjacent to the stringers. The grooves should be 5mm deep. Grooves should also be cut behind bulkhead C from the side to the centre line. Check the measurements of the bulkheads. 8. FITTING THE BOTTOM 8.1 Cut the front bottom and back half sheet of ply down the centre. Short screws through some scrap ply has been found to be very successful in holding the edges of the ply down. Weights, bricks, sand bags are used in the middle of the ply. The screws are removed when the glue is dry and the holes are filled. 8.2 Glue on one complete side of the bottom, when dry, plane the overhang at the keelson down level with the keelson. 8.3 Glue on the other half of the bottom. 8.4 When dry trim all ply overhang back and cut the centre board slot out. 9. MAST STEP and FORESTAY NOTES The boat is detached from the jig and turned right-way-up for these fittings. a) Two chain plates are recommended for the forestay on either side of spine ply. b) 8mm thick hardwood fixing blocks between top and bottom framing of spine are used for fixing jib forestay.

c) The holes for the bolts for fixing the chain plates in place should be drilled before glueing the blocks in place. d) A strong mast step is recommended - 10mm hardwood blocks between top and bottom framing of spine. 10. TOP STRINGER and BACKING BLOCKS The top stringers are fixed as per bottom stringers. Backing blocks (3x4mm ply) should be fixed for jib fairleads, toe straps and cleats. NB. Fully measure and record positions of backing blocks so that once deck is glued on these positions can easily be found.

11. VARNISHING THE INTERIOR ABE Epidermix 389 is suggested as it not only strengthens the wood but is compatible with ABE Epidermix 372 and therefore simplifies the glueing of the deck sheets as no marking of deck is required. Care should be taken not to paint top of stringers especially if ABE Epidermix 389 is not used!. 12. THE DECK 12.1 Attaching the deck and varnishing the interior of the deck. (If ABE Epidermix 389 and ABE Epidermix 372 are not used) two or more people are needed for this as the glue sets quickly. a) The boat, especially the transom, must be supported so that it will not twist when the weights are put on the deck. b) Spread glue on the surfaces of stringers and bulkheads to which the deck will be glued. c) Put a deck ply sheet in position to make a print, remove it then varnish between the glue marks. d) Re-glue the surfaces when the varnish is dry and place the ply in position and secure it with weights while the glue sets. e) Drill a hole where the hatch cover is to be, as a breather hole. 12.2 Attaching Deck. (If ABE Epidermix 389 and ABE Epidermix 372 are used) a) The boat, especially the transom, must be supported so that it will not twist when the weights are put on the deck. b) Paint the interior of the decks with Epidermix 389 and before the paint dries completely. c) Spread glue on stringers and place deck into position and secure it with weights. 13. Fibreglass (Optional Extra) a) Fibreglass over all the corner plywood joints is an optional extra. b) All the edges are rounded, except the transom which doesn't get fibreglass. c) The fibreglass matting, 50mm wide, should be inlayed less than one veneer of plywood or about 1mm. d) The fibreglass should be filled and sanded until it is level with the plywood. Resin, Epidermix or car body filler can be used. 14. PAINTING a) It is recommended to sand out the bumps in the plywood before any painting. It is suggested that the edges be sanded round, except for the keel/side edge from the transom forward 2/3 of the boat's length. b) Glatex 8 or equivalent good (polyurethane or polyacrathane) yacht paint should be used. c) One should aim to put on at least four layers of paint. d) After two coats of paint first 220 then 400 waterpaper should be used to sand the boat. After the third coat 400 and 600 waterpaper should be used. The final coat on the bottom should be sanded with 400, but mainly with 800.

15. FITTINGS a) It is recommended to put silicon marine sealer/varnish in with the screws when putting on the fittings. Stainless steel selftapping screws should be used. b) For the hatch cover you should only make a small hole first then make it bigger to fit the cover when you know the position of the stringers, because you do no want to cut a stringer. c) Two strips of sail cloth, 40mm wide, should be glued under the centreboard case to prevent water from spraying up the centre board case. Commercially obtainable centre board gasket is available which could be used as an alternative. 16. CENTREBOARD and RUDDER a) Make plywood templates of the shapes shown in the plan. b) The laminated centre board should be about 27mm thick: it is then sanded down to the thickness of the centre board case, less 1,5mm for the paint. It should be made longer, then cut to size when shaped to allow for error. c) Only shape the underwater parts of the centre board and rudder. If possible have hardwood for the leading and trailing edges. d) If you can use a radial or circular saw, draw the template shape on the bottom of the centre board or rudder, then line the saw blade depth with the depth of the template shape. Cut four slots as guides of the depths on both sides then shape down (I use a coarse plastic sanding disk) to the template shape. e) When fitting the similarly laminated rudder, ensure that it is positioned on the centre line of the transom as well as vertically to the deck. 17. MAST and BOOM a) A straight mast section as shown on the plans is recommended. This section can be tapered at the top or purchased ready-made from a commercial supplier. b) The thinner tube section with a track riveted onto it can be used but it has been found to be too weak.

FITTINGS Hull a) Rudder pintles 2 b) Rudder retainer clip 1 c) Pulleys for aft-sheeting 2 d) Saddles for aft-sheeting 2 e) Mainsheet block 1 f) Swivelling cleat for fixing main sheet block to deck 1 g) Toe straps 800mm long 2 h) Toe strap plates 4 i) Jib fairleads 2 j) Adjustment cleats 7 k) Pulleys for adjustments 11 (Kicker 2, outhaul 4, cunningham 3, jib cunningham 2) l) Saddles for adjustments pulleys 1 m) Cleats for adjustments 7 n) Mast step 1 o) Chain-plates 6 p) Hatch covers 2 q) Bung plug 1 r) Centre board gasket 0.9m

Boom a) Hangers & shackles for mainsheet pulleys 2 b) Attachment for fixing kicker 1 c) Mainsheet pulleys 2 d) Recessed outhaul pulleys (Metal) 2 e) Monal pop rivets 5mm x 13mm 40

Mast a) Gooseneck 1 b) Mast heal 1 c) Halyard pulley (metal) 1 d) Halyard lock (toothed rack) 1 e) Monal pop rivets 5mm x 13mm 40 f) Burgee holder 1

Rudder & Centreboard a) Rudder gudions 2 b) Tiller extension 1,1mm x 16mm tubing c) Centreboard retaining rope 1m x 3mm d) Eye for retaining rope 1

Rigging a) Aft-sheeting bridle 3mm x 2,0m b) Mainsheet 8mm x 5,5m c) Jibsheet 6 or 8 mm x 7,0m d) Adjustment rope (Kicker,outhaul, cunningham, jib cunningham) 6mm x 9,0m e) Kicking strap lever 1 f) Outhaul rope in boom 3mm x 3,0m g) Strop in boom 2,5mm x 1,5m h) Halyard strop (for internal halyard) 2,5mm x 4,2m i) Halyard rope (for internal halyard) 2,0mm x 4,5m j) Stays with chain plates 2,5mm x 2,94m 2 k) Levers for fixing stays to deck