Dear Dragon Friends,
You are all very much in our thoughts as we face unprecedented challenges from the current pandemic and a situation that changes rapidly every day.
As you now know, we have been forced, in consultation with the organising committees, to cancel the Spanish and Italian Grand Prix events, and the European Championship. Although it seems obvious now, you must know that these decisions were not taken easily, and it was only after many discussions and phone calls among all involved that we came to the sad conclusion to cancel these events. I want to say a very big thank you to all involved, especially the organising teams in Spain and Italy who have put in an enormous amount of work.
It may be that we will have to cancel or postpone other events as the year progresses, but at present there are no other changes to the Dragon calendar. We hope that local fleets will be able to sail while avoiding close contact with each other in social situations.
This period of uncertainty is going to hurt all marine businesses, especially small businesses. So, if you need anything for the 2020 sailing season, from a new boat, to sails, to ropes and sailing gear, please consider ordering it right now. These orders may prove vital to the survival of these businesses.
The IDA Board has been in regular and frequent communication and will keep everything under constant review. We are working hard at present to finalise the dates and venues for the GP regattas in 2021, and these will be announced very soon.
While our priority for ourselves and our families is to stay as safe as we can, our enforced isolation only makes us long to be able to go sailing again. I know that I was especially looking forward to finally race again in my first season as IDA Chairman. As Dragon sailors we are accustomed to sailing safely in heavy weather conditions – I compare these conditions with the challenges and insecurities we are facing today in our daily lives. Navigate safely – and please take care of your families and yourself and stay healthy.
Jens Rathsack
Chairman IDA