From the Feedback - 22/05/01

Each contribution may be subjected to a rigorous process of editing for language, taste and imparted wisdom. The opinions expressed in From the Feedback do not necessarily reflect those of the management, staff or investors of madfor sport.com. Instead, and much more importantly, they reflect your views.

Editor's plea. If you write to us, as hundreds of you do every week, and you want to see your thoughts in print, then please include your full name on your e-mail. Anonymous contributions will not be published.

From Robeck Stein
Who should we profile next? Ahhh well, interesting question. I see that you often have profiles on fairly successful, and colourful sailors. I had the privilege about 10 years ago of sailing with a certain 'Chaz m'Taz' who in my opinion has a rather interesting sailing career. His exact whereabouts may be a problem for you if you want an interview, but probably someone at the NYYC, or in Tasmania (quite a small place), hence the M'Taz, should be able to help. The last I knew was that he was living on a houseboat in Hong Kong harbour, oh and by the way if you are uncertain of his background, suitability, pedigree etc then a few phone calls could help, although I know he has done quite a lot of sailing. So Chaz m' Taz - will you take up the challenge?

From David Greening
Still a great boat? Your report on the Laser 5000 suggests that a boat designed in 1996 is beyond its prime. This is pretty mind-blowing when you consider that traditional classes such as the 505 or Fireball designed in the 60s still offer world class competition. Which brings us to the Achilles heel of 'manufacturers' classes and one that should be considered by anyone buying into them: will they still be supported when they cease to be commercially viable to the big four builders? The traditional classes are supported by the genuine enthusiasm of those sailing them and by the plethora of smaller builders who are happy to scrape a living. I wonder who will have the last laugh?

From Jim C
Still a great boat? The 5 Tonner was never a great boat. Frankly the people who designed it had no relevant experience in modern boats and just reproduced what they knew, which meant overweight and (relative to sail area and righting moment) slow. They did a surprisingly good job in avoiding a complete turkey, but all they needed to do was involve any of a dozen or so or Kiwi designers in the design team and it could have been so much better.

From Mike B
Still a great boat? "Trailblazer"/A boat that went a long way towards defining the modern UK racing scene Purrrleeeease. While Phil Morrison's original concept was worthy, from the moment Laser put the 5000 into production it was a lardy overweight tub. The only reason it had the success it did was due to the amount of cash thrown at the race series. And don't get me started on the Boss.

From A Mckee
Still a great boat? We have just traded up to a 5000. Although a new boat is probably not good value, the price of a second hand boat gives the biggest blast for you pound available. We have found the class to be friendly and helpful with plenty of advice available. The boats appear bullet proof - we have only had minor repairs to do so far. They can be a little heavy to pull up the beach, especially after a lot of swimming, but there is always plenty of help at Opens. We have been very pleased as this is the only way we could afford competitive twin wire racing.
PS: the problem with humming is common on the 4000/5000 with a new dagger board. The class rules allow the sanding of the trailing edge only, which stops this.

More topics on page two.....