to gbleck: we all know that the IKA rule about board appendages DO exclude foilboards, because foilboards with a max. Tbar length of 50cm simply wont work properly. Foilboards need at least 80cm. The best foilboarders ride with a Tbar length between 90 and 100 cm.

i think that one thing we have to keep in mind is that there are tons of great venues around the world that work great for kiting and specators but will not work for boats with draft depth requirements. we are even starting to lose venues with the kite class rules due to long fins. foils are cool, but not reasonable to race in many locations that are perfect for kiting. in truth, it should simply be another class of kite racing.

True, but this rule can be modified by the race committee. I have seen it done before, even under the IKA umbrella. So it is up to the riders to convince the race committee to modify this rule.

Norm

Renaud Madier takes the lead... 29 knt V max in 15 knt.

Yes not an explicit ban but more of a back handed ban. I think that the two foil twin foil design might be under 50cm from the closest part of the hull. Great thing about the RRS is that you can modify them in the sailing instructions or SI's.