The IDA AGM was held in London in late October. Overall the Class is in good shape, with continued good attendance at major regattas, the introduction of a new Corinthian event and a total of 18 Dragons built last year, with one new builder. There were a number of minor rule changes proposed and adopted. Discussion continued around the number of professional teams in the Class; while there is no doubt that most pros add value and provide excellent competition, the Class has realized it needs to spend more time and effort on local and national fleets.
There continues to be considerable competition for upcoming major events, but the exciting news was the interest and support expressed for a major event in North America in the next five years. Current thinking is around a Gold Cup in Newport in 2019 and the IDA has given provisional approval for this, which will be discussed in much more detail at next year's AGM and with the ADA and CDA. Detailed notes on the event are here.
There continues to be considerable competition for upcoming major events, but the exciting news was the interest and support expressed for a major event in North America in the next five years. Current thinking is around a Gold Cup in Newport in 2019 and the IDA has given provisional approval for this, which will be discussed in much more detail at next year's AGM and with the ADA and CDA. Detailed notes on the event are here.