F.6.3(a)(3) Backstay Pennant System – Running Rigging or Standing Rigging?

[MattAdministrator]

What is the “Backstay Pennant System” and should it be defined as running rigging or standing rigging?

See Etchells One Design Class Rules section F.6.3 (a) (3).

I assume this “backstay pennant system” is the block and tackle often found within the aft compartment that tensions the backstay. Where does it start? Where does it end? It moves and runs through blocks… why is it in the “standing rigging” section of the class rules. It has all the appearances of running rigging.

Does the super-secret “International Etchells Builder’s Specification” (referenced throughout the Class Rules, but otherwise not disclosed to class members) describe this item more completely?

I suggest deleting the pennant system from the standing rigging, or at least moving it to running rigging, or?? If left here and continued to be defined as standing rigging, it probably needs to be better described and more completely defined. Can the purchase be made from rope? Or, as standing rigging, must be wire?

Note, in World Sailing’s Equipment Rules of Sailing paragraph F.1.7 (b)(ii) (on page 18), the entire backstay is defined as running rigging. Etchells should change to conform to the ERS definition.

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