Class Rules - One Design
One of the attractions of the Laser for most owners is that the class rules are very strict andthat the boat is one design. The Laser philosophy incorporated in the rules is that we want
to go sailing, not waste time fiddling with boats. We want to win races on the water using
our skill, not by trying to find a way round the rules that will give us an advantage.
The Class Rules are written to prevent any changes from the standard boat that might
affect performance, so that on the water each boat is the same. The few changes to thestandard boat that are allowed are minor and only to allow for a few options that makeracing the Laser more comfortable and enjoyable.
Over the years the class has refused to make changes to the rules that allow more
expensive or complicated equipment or which makes older boats redundant.
If you feel you want to change something on a Laser - STOP
Ask yourself why you want to do it? If the answer is “to make me go faster” there is a very
good chance the modification or addition is illegal!
Take a look at the Laser Rules.
•
Part One explains the Fundamental Class Rule which covers the philosophy
and any item not specifically written into the rules.
•

Part Two tells you what you must do to have a legal boat.

•

Part Three details a few optional changes and additions you can make.

If Part Three does not specifically allow a change or
addition - IT IS ILLEGAL!
If you race a Laser that has a change or addition not allowed by the class rules you will bedisqualified from the race. Ignorance of the rules is no defence.

Cheating
In our sport in every club and class there is the odd person who needs to cheat to win.
Cheating is doing something that you know is illegal. Whether you gain an advantage or
not is irrelevant.
Our class is strong and popular because we believe in a strict one design and our sailors
want to know that they are racing on equal terms. ILCA takes a very strong line with Laser
sailors who do not sail according to the rules. There have been cases in the past where
sailors who have sailed with illegal boats have been banned from sailing a Laser. Sucha ban can be for life.
If action is also taken under the racing rules, the ban can cover racing in any boat.
Our class is much bigger than the odd person who wants to gain advantage by illegallychanging the Laser or its equipment. They can sail in other classes where the rules allowchanges to a boat to get an advantage. We do not want them with us.
34

The latest edition of the Laser Class Rules and By-Laws
are available at www.laserinternational.org.
The Class Rules and By-Laws may be amended after
publication of the Handbook.

ILCA By-Law 1: Rules(Parts one to five inclusive)

Valid from 1 January 2011. Cancels all previous rules andinterpretations.
HISTORY: The following rules have been amended from:
1 January 2011: Rule 3(e)ii modified: The cunningham
control line shall be securely attached to any of the mast,
gooseneck, mast tang, swivel or shackle that may be
used to attach the vang cleat block to the mast tang, thecunningham attachment point on the "Builder Supplied"vang cleating fitting or the becket of an optional becket
block fixed on the cunningham attachment point on the"Builder Supplied" vang. Rule 3(f)vi modified: A shock
cord for use as an inhaul may be attached between theouthaul cleat and clew of the sail, the clew tie down, theoptional block at the clew, the quick release system or
through the clew of the sail and to an optional block in
the primary control line. Sentence added to Rule 3(g)i: An additional outhaul extension tie line may be added
between the clew of the sail and the outhaul or the quick
release system. Rule 21 modified: Clips, ties or bags tostow or secure safety or other equipment may be usedon the deck, in the cockpit, around the mast or boom.
Rule 24 modified: Tape and Line. The use of flexible
adhesive tape or similar or line is permitted to secure
shackle pins and clips, and to bind sheets, control lines
and rigging, except that tape or line shall not be used toconstruct new fittings or modify the function of existing
fittings. New Rule 27: The sail may be reefed by rollingthe sail around the mast 1 or 2 times.
1 January 2010: New Rule 3(b)(xii): Reference points(marks) may be placed on the deck, spar and ropes.
Sentence added to Rule 3(f)(v): The blocks in this rule
may also be attached to the gooseneck with a bolt or pin.
Sentence added to Rule 13: The builder-supplied o-rings
may be substituted with non builder-supplied alternatives
provided the basic function of the bailer is unchanged.
Rule 14(d) modified: the words 'general purpose self
adhesive plastic tape (includes duct and gaffer tape)'
deleted and replaced with 'any material'. New Rule 26(f):The use of lubricants is unrestricted except that they shallnot be used on the hull (below the gunwales).
Latest changes are marked by margin lines.
INTRODUCTION
The principle of the Laser Class Rules is that no changes
to the boat are allowed unless they are specificallypermitted by the class rules.
The English text of the Laser Class Rules shall govern.

PART ONEOBJECT
The Laser is a strict one-design dinghy where the true
test, when raced, is between helmspersons and notboats and equipment.
FUNDAMENTAL RULE
The Laser shall be raced in accordance with theserules, with only the hull, equipment, fittings, spars,sail and battens manufactured by a licensed builder
in accordance with the Laser design specification(known as the Construction Manual) which isregistered with ISAF.
No addition or alteration may be made to the hullform, construction, equipment, type of equipment,
placing of equipment, fittings, type of fittings, placing© ILCA 			

of fittings, spars, sail and battens as supplied by thebuilder except when such an alteration or change
is specifically authorised by Parts 2 or 3 of theseRules.
HULL IDENTIFICATION
All Lasers shall have an identification number moulded
into the deck under the bow eye or into the transom,
which shall be either the sail number or a uniqueproduction number.
Lasers with sail numbers from 148200 shall display aunique ISAF Building Plaque that has been purchasedby the builder from the International Laser Class
Association. The plaque shall display the sail numberof the boat issued by the International Laser Class
Association and shall be permanently fixed in the rear of
the cockpit by the builder.
DEFINITION OF BUILDERA Builder is a manufacturer that has a building
agreement from Bruce Kirby or Bruce Kirby Inc. to build
the Laser and has rights to use a Laser trademark andhas been approved as a Laser Builder by each of theInternational Sailing Federation and the International
Laser Class Association.

PART TWO

1.		 MEASUREMENT DIAGRAMS
The measurement Diagrams are part of these Rules.
The spars, sails, battens, centreboard, rudder, and theplacing of fittings and equipment shall conform to the
Measurement Diagrams. The measurement tolerances
are intended to allow for necessary manufacturing
tolerances and shall not be used to alter the design.
2.		 MEASUREMENT
In the case of a dispute alleging non-compliance with
the Construction Manual, the matter, together withany relevant information, shall be referred to the Chief
Measurer of the International Laser Class Association
at the International Office who shall give a final ruling in
consultation with an ISAF Technical Officer.
In the case of a measurement dispute on the hull,spars, sail, battens, centreboard and rudder, rigging,type of fittings and equipment and the placing of same
not explicitly covered by these Rules, Measurement
Diagrams and Measurement By-Laws the following
procedure shall be adopted:A sample of 10 other boats shall be taken and measured
using identical techniques. The dimensions of the
disputed boat shall be equal to, or between the maximum
and minimum dimensions obtained from these 10 boats.
If the boat in question is outside these dimensions thematter, together with any relevant information, shall bereferred to the Chief Measurer of the International Laser
Class Association at the International Office, who shallgive a final ruling. If any of the dimensions of the sample
are considered to be unusual, all relevant information
shall be referred by the Class Association to the ISAF.
3. 		 CONTROL SYSTEMS, CONTROL LINES AND
FITTINGS(a)		 Control System Definitionsi The Cunningham, outhaul, vang, traveller andmainsheet are the Control Line Systems. The
cunningham, outhaul and vang Control Line
Systems may include more than one Control
Line as allowed in Rules 3(d)i, 3(e)i and 3(f)i.
Each Control Line shall be a single piece of
uniform thickness and material. A line is a Control
Line if any of the line moves along its axis during
adjustment of the Control Line System. A linethat exclusively attaches items together is a Tie
Line.

35

Valid from 1st January 2011

ii For the purpose of these definitions, the Standard
Fittings are the:Plastic cunningham fairlead
Plastic cunningham clam cleat
Mainsheet block
Plastic outhaul clam cleat
Plastic outhaul fairlead
Vang cleat block
Vang key block
Vang key
Plastic traveller fairleads
Plastic traveller clam cleatiii An “Optional” fitting is a fitting or block that
replaces, or is additional to, a Standard Fitting as
allowed by these Rules.
iv A “Builder Supplied” fitting replaces a Standard
Fitting, and is supplied only by the Builder, as
allowed by these Rules.
v A “Turning Point” is a sheave (pulley) in a
block, a rope loop, a rope loop reinforced witha thimble, the outhaul fairlead, a shackle, partof a fitting, sail cringle, mast or boom aroundwhich a moving Control Line passes, exceptthat the cunningham fairlead, the “Optional”
blocks attached to the “Builder Supplied” deck
block fitting, the cunningham clam cleat, and the“Optional” cam cleats attached to the “Builder
Supplied” deck cleat base will not be counted
as “Turning Points” in Rules 3(e)i and 3(f)i.
vi When an “Optional” block, or shock cord is
attached to a fitting, line, mast, boom or the sail,it may be attached either with or without a shackle,
clips, balls, hooks and/or a tie line.
(b)		 Control Lines and Fittingsi. Control lines shall be natural or synthetic rope,
except that aramid fibre (e.g. kevlar) is not
permitted for the boom vang or cunningham
control systems.
ii. Control lines shall be of uniform thickness andshall not be tapered except for the purpose of asplice at the load bearing attachment point.
iii. In a control line system where more than one
control line is permitted, lines of different diametershall not be joined together.
iv. “Optional” blocks allowed in cunningham, vangor outhaul control systems, shall have sheaves ofdiameter not less than 15 mm and not more than
30 mm.
		 Thimbles allowed to reinforce rope loops used
as “Turning Points” in the cunningham, vang andouthaul control line systems shall not exceed
40mm in length.
v. Only single or double “Optional” blocks shall be
used. A single block means a block with one
sheave; a double block means a block with two
sheaves. “Optional” blocks may include a becket,
a swivel and/or a shackle.
vi. The plastic fairleads and plastic clam cleats may
be replaced in the same position with an identicalsize and shape fitting made of metal.
vii. The plastic cunningham fairlead may be replacedwith one of the same type which has a stainlesssteel insert, and has the same screw holepositions.
viii.“Builder Supplied” Deck Fittings (Deck Block
Fitting and Deck Cleat Base)a) The cunningham fairlead
may be replaced in thesame position with a “Builder
Supplied” deck block fitting
which may have one or two
single “Optional” blocks
attached.
		 “Optional” blocks shall not be attached to thecunningham fairlead.
		 Either the cunningham fairlead alone, or the“Builder Supplied” deck block fitting with single“Optional” block(s) attached may be used tolead the cunningham and/or outhaul control
lines to the deck cleat(s)b) The “Optional deck blocks may be supportedwith a spring, ball, plastic tube or tape.
c) The cunningham clam
cleat may be replaced in
the same position with a“Builder Supplied” deckcleat base for attachingtwo “Optional” cam cleats(cunningham and outhaul) which have fixing
hole centres of 27 mm. The two cam cleats
may include a bridge and a fairlead with orwithout rollers on the aft exit.
d) Control lines shall not be tied to any of thecunningham fairlead, the “Builder Supplied”
deck block fitting and the “Optional” blocks
attached to it, the cunningham clam cleat or
the “Builder Supplied” deck cleat base andthe “Optional” cam cleats, cleat bridge andfairleads attached to it.
ix. Rope loop handles covered with plastic/rubber
tube and/or tape may be included anywhere on
the free end of a control line.
x. The free ends of different control lines (except
mainsheet) may be tied together and/or tied to any
deck fitting or the centreboard, the centreboard
handle or a rope loop used to attach a retaining
line. Free ends of control lines shall not be tied toshock cord (except mainsheet).
xi. To secure the mast in the event of a capsize, aloose retention line or shock cord (that will allow
180 degree plus mast rotation) shall be tied/
attached between the cunningham fairlead or thedeck block fitting and the mast tang or gooseneck.
Clips, hooks, shackles and balls may be used toattach the retention line.
xii Reference points (marks) may be placed on thedeck, spars and ropes.
(c)		 Mainsheet – also see Rules 3(a) & 3(b)i. The mainsheet shall be a single line, and be
attached to the becket of the aft boom block, andthen passed through the traveller block, the aftboom block, boom eye strap, forward boom blockand the mainsheet block. After the mainsheet
block it shall be knotted. The mainsheet shall not
be controlled aft of the forward boom block except
to facilitate a tack or gybe.
ii. The tail of the mainsheet may also be knotted ortied to either the base of the mainsheet block, thehiking strap, the hiking strap support line, or thehiking strap shock cord.
iii. The mainsheet block may be replaced by any
type of single block with or without an internal or
attached jamming device, and mounted in theposition shown on the measurement diagram.
The block may be supported by a spring, ball,plastic tube or tape.

36© ILCA 			

Valid from 1st January 2011

iv. One mainsheet clam or cam cleat of any typemay be mounted on each side deck in the position
shown on the measurement diagram.
(d)		 Vang – also see Rules 3(a) & 3(b)i. The vang system shall be between the mast tang
and the boom key fitting and shall be comprisedof the vang cleat block, the vang key block, amaximum of two control lines, loops and/or“Optional” blocks for additional purchase with amaximum of 7 “Turning Points”.
ii. The vang cleat block shall be attached directly tothe mast tang, or to an “Optional” swivel that shallbe attached to the mast tang.
iii. A shackle may be used to attach the vang cleat
block or the swivel to the mast tang.
iv. The swivel, shackle or swivel/shackle combination
shall not exceed 80 mm in length when measured
under tension.
v. The vang key block may be fitted with a spare key.
vi. The key may be straight or bent, and it may beheld in the key way with either tape, elastic or
velcro.
vii. The vang key block may be replaced with an“Optional” vang key block which may have a sparekey.
viii.“Optional “single blocks may be attached to one orboth sides of the vang cleat block, using a clevis
pin or bolt through the attachment hole in the vang
cleat block.
ix. The mast tang hole may be drilled to take a largerpin.
x. “Builder Supplied” Vang Cleating Fittinga) The vang cleat block may be replaced with a“Builder Supplied” vang cleating fitting which
incorporates “Turning Points” and a cam cleat.
These photos show the 2 Class legal “Builder
Supplied” vang cleating fittings:b) The fitting shall be attached directly to the masttang.
c) The fitting shall not be modified in any way.
(e)		 Cunningham – also see Rules 3(a) & 3(b)i. The cunningham system shall consist of a
maximum three control lines, “Optional” blocks
or loops for purchase with a maximum of 5
“Turning Points”.
ii. The cunningham control line shall be securely
attached to any of the mast, gooseneck, masttang, swivel or shackle that may be used toattach the vang cleat block to the mast tang, thecunningham attachment point on the "Builder
Supplied" vang cleating fitting or the becket of an
optional becket block fixed on the cunningham
attachment point on the "Builder Supplied" vang.
		 The cunningham control line shall pass throughthe sail tack cringle as a moving line.
		 The sail tack cringle shall be at least one of the
maximum of 5 “Turning Points” permitted byRule 3(e)i.

iii. Additional purchases may be obtained using rope
loops, “Optional” blocks and using any of theboom, sail tack cringle, gooseneck fitting, masttang, shackle attaching vang cleat block or swivel,
the swivel, or the cunningham attachment point on
a “Builder Supplied” vang cleating fitting.
iv. Deck Block Fitting and Deck Cleat Base		 The cunningham control line shall pass only once
through the cunningham fairlead or “Optional”
single block attached to the “Builder Supplied”
deck block fitting and shall pass only once throughthe cunningham clam cleat or “Optional” cam cleat
attached to the “Builder Supplied” deck cleat base.
(f)		 Outhaul – also see Rules 3(a) & 3(b)i. The outhaul system shall consist of a maximumof two control lines, “Optional” blocks or loops
for purchase and a maximum of 6 “Turning
Points”.
ii. The outhaul control line shall be attached to either
the end of the boom, the outhaul fairlead, the sail,or a quick release system, and shall pass throughthe boom outhaul fairlead as a moving line at least
once. The outhaul fairlead shall be at least one of
the maximum of 6 “Turning Points” permitted byRule 3(f)i.
iii. Additional purchases may be obtained by forming
rope loops in the line or adding “Optional” blocks
to the line, and/or using the outhaul fairlead,the outhaul clam cleat, the boom, the mast or
gooseneck fitting.
		 An “Optional’ block may be attached to the outhaul
fairlead, provided Rule 3(f)ii is also satisfied.
		 An “Optional” block may be attached to the outhaulclam cleat.
iv. An “Optional” block may be attached to the clew ofthe sail, or to a quick release system, or be part ofa quick release system.
v. One or two “Optional” blocks may be attached to
the gooseneck fitting, or at the mast/gooseneck
junction with their “Turning Points” not more than
100mm from the center of the gooseneck bolt.
(The gooseneck may be inverted.) The blocks inthis rule may also be attached to the gooseneckwith a bolt or a pin.
vi. A shock cord for use as an inhaul may be attachedaround the boom immediately in front of theouthaul cleat or to the outhaul cleat and then to
the clew of the sail, the clew tie down, the optional
block at the clew, the quick release system or
through the clew of the sail and to an optional
block in the primary control line.
vii. Shock cord and/or rope loops (rope loops may
be part of the control line) can be tied around theboom and/or the outhaul control lines to retain theouthaul lines close to the boom.
viii.Deck Led Outhaul Systema) When led to the deck, the outhaul control line
shall pass only once through the cunningham
fairlead or the outhaul “Optional” single blockattached to the “Builder Supplied” deck block
fitting and shall pass only once through the“Optional” cam cleat attached to the “Builder
Supplied” deck cleat base.
b) The boom outhaul clam cleat shall not be
removed.

37© ILCA 			

Valid from 1st January 2011

(g)		
i.

ii.
(h)		
i.
ii.
4.		
		
(a)		

		
(b)		

		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		

(c)		

		

Clew Tie Down – also see
Rules 3(a) & 3(b)The clew of the sail shallbe attached to the boomby either a tie line or a
webbing strap with orwithout a fastening device
wrapped around the boom
and through the sail cringle,
a quick release system attached to a tie line orsoft strap wrapped around the boom, or a "Builder
Supplied" stainless steel boom slide with quick
release system. An additional outhaul extension tie
line may be added between the clew of the sail andthe outhaul or the quick release system.
If the clew tie down is a tie line, it may be passed
through solid balls with holes and/or tubes to reduce
friction.
Traveller – also see Rules 3(a) & 3(b)The traveller shall be a single line. It shall be rigged
as a simple closed loop through the traveller eyes
and the free end passing through the traveller cleat.
A spring, ball or tape may be used between thetraveller blocks.
SAIL REGISTRATION NUMBERS(For Laser Radial and 4.7 sail number positions
please see part 4 rule 28(e) and 29(e)For Lasers up to sail number 148199, the sailnumber is a number moulded into the deck underthe bow eye or into the transom, or displayed on aplate attached to the rear of the cockpit.
For Lasers with sail numbers from 148200, the sailnumber is the number displayed on a unique ISAF
Building Plaque attached to the rear of the cockpit.
All numbers shall be in accordance with the Racing
Rules of Sailing except as amended by theserules in respect of type, positioning and minimum
dimensions:
Height 300 mm.
Width 200 mm (excluding number 1).
Thickness 45 mm.
Space between adjoining numbers minimum 50
mm.
Sail numbers shall be regularly spaced.
Numbers on the starboard side shall be placed
above those on the port side.
Each sail number digit shall be of one colour only.
The sail numbers shall be solid and easy to read.
After 1st March 1998 - sail numbers and national
letters shall only be adhesive numbers. The use ofpermanent ink pens or similar to mark numbers andnational letters on the sail is prohibited.
For sails with numbers above 153000 and sails
purchased after 1st June 1993 the sail numbers
shall be glued or sewn on each side of the sail, withthe bottom of the numbers on the starboard sideof the sail placed along a line parallel to and 400
mm (+ or - 12 mm) below the seam at the middle
batten pocket. The bottom of the numbers on theport side of the sail shall be placed on a line 400
mm (+ or - 12 mm) below and parallel to the bottomof the numbers on the starboard side of the sail.
The starboard sail numbers shall commence 100
mm (+ or - 12 mm) from the leech and the port side
numbers shall end 100 mm (+ or - 12 mm) from theleech.
(Refer to sail number application diagram forprocedure for applying sail numbers & letters)© ILCA 			

38

(d)

Sail numbers from 131000, sails purchased after
1st June 1993 and new sails stamped “New
Numbers” shall have numbers that are clearlyvisible with the last four digits of the number in one
dark, distinctive colour or black and any preceding
numbers in a different, contrasting, distinctive
colour (red is recommended).
(e)
Exceptions to this Rule are permitted:
i. when the hull and/or sail are provided by theorganisers for an event and after approval of theInternational Laser Class Association, the numberson the sail used for that event only may be single,
double or triple digit numbers.
ii. in the case of a Laser borrowed or chartered fora specific event, and after written approval fromthe Race Committee, a competitor may use a sailwith numbers that are different to the sail number
allocated to the hull. The sail number used shallbe the sail number allocated to the competitor’s
own Laser. When the competitor does not own
a Laser, the number used on the sail shall be thenumber of the Laser chartered.
iii. when a sail is damaged during a series and Rule 7(c) applies the sail number may contravene Rules 4(a) and (e) ii only when written permission for a sailnumber change is given by the Race Committee.
(f)National Letters, if required, shall conform to thesame type, size, spacing and requirements as sailnumbers (refer rule 4(b), (c), (d) and (e)) and shallbe positioned as follows (also see diagrams on
pages 26-28):
		 The letters on the starboard side of the sail shall beplaced along the top edge of the seam below thebottom batten pocket (+ or -12 mm) and on the portside of the sail along a line 400 mm (+ or - 12 mm)
below and parallel to the letters on the starboard
side. The starboard letters shall commence 100
mm (+ or - 12 mm) from the leech and the port
letters shall finish 100 mm (+ or - 12 mm) fromthe leech. The letters shall all be the same colour,
which may be one of the colours of the digits of thesail number, or another distinctive colour.
		 National Letters shall be required at all WorldChampionships, Regional Championships andevents described as international events in thenotice of race or sailing instructions. National
Letters may be required at any other regatta by
the notice of race or sailing instructions.
(g) RED RHOMBUS
i.		Sails used in the following women’s events shallcarry a red rhombus above the top batten pocket
on both sides;
		 a. World or regional (continental) championships.
		 b. Events described as “international events”
by the Notice of Race or Sailing Instructions.
		 c. Other events that prescribe in the Noticeof Race or Sailing Instructions that womencompetitors should be identified.
ii. The minimum size and approximate position shallcomply with diagram on page 25.
iii. The rhombus may be retained for racing in otherevents.
5.		 MAST
No mast which has a permanent bend shall be used at
any time.
6.		 CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT(a)
In alteration of RRS 43.1 (b) the maximum total
weight of competitors’ clothing and equipment shallbe 9 kg (for Laser Radial and 4.7 rigs please seepart 4).

Valid from 1st January 2011

(b)Competitors shall not wear or carry non floating
clothing or equipment which in total weightexceeds 500 grammes dead weight except
protective sailing clothing.
(c)
For the purposes of weighing clothing andequipment as required by RRS Appendix H threecoat hangers may be used instead of a rack.
7.		 SAILING REQUIREMENTS(a)
The Laser shall be raced with either one or two
persons aboard.
		 When two persons race a Laser they shall race
together throughout the entire race or series ofraces without alternating at the helm.
(b) No part of the helmsman or crew may be placed
forward of the mast while racing.
(c)
Sails
		 In a series of races a sail shall not be changed foranother unless written permission for an individualchange is obtained from the race committee.
Written permission shall only be given in the eventof a sail damaged beyond repair or damaged tothe extent that it cannot be repaired before thestart of the next race in a series. In the event of achange the damaged sail shall not be used again
in that series even if it is subsequently repaired.
		 For the purpose of this rule, a series is deemed
to be two or more individual races which counttowards an overall points total.
8.		 HULL COATINGSThe use of slowly soluble applications which mightalter the boundary layer characteristics of the hull areprohibited.
9.		 CLASS ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIPNo person is permitted to race a Laser in any Fleet,interFleet, District, or other sanctioned event unless atleast one member of the crew is a current member of
the International Laser Class Association (a member of aDistrict Laser Association duly established in accordancewith the Constitution is a member of the International
Laser Class Association).
10.		ADVERTISING
For the purposes of RRS 80 and ISAF Regulation 20
there are no class prescriptions restricting advertising.

PART THREEOPTIONS AND EXCEPTIONS TO PARTS ONE
AND TWO
11.
(a)		

HULL FINISH
Waxing, polishing and fine wet and dry sandingof the hull is permitted, provided the intention andeffect is to polish the hull only. Polishing/sanding
shall not be used to remove mould imperfections.
(b)		 Sanding and refinishing of the hull with theintention or effect to lighten the hull or improve theperformance, finish, materials or shape beyond
the original is not permitted.
12. TRANSOM DRAIN BUNG
A retaining line may be attached to the transom drainbung and the gudgeon.
13. SELF BAILER
A self-bailing device as supplied only by the builder
may be added. The bailer may be sealed with tape,filler or glue along its edge where it joins the hull andat the screw hole. Filling the screw hole level with theflat surface of the bailer is permitted. Fairing the flat
surface of the bailer to the hull shape or changing the
profile of the bailer is not permitted. The drain bungmay be removed from the self-bailer, and the self bailer
opening pin may be secured to the cockpit floor with self
adhesive plastic tape. The builder-supplied o-rings may
be substituted with non builder-supplied alternatives
provided the basic function of the bailer is unchanged.
14. CENTREBOARD(a)
A rope handle passing through not more than twoholes of maximum diameter 12.5 mm above a line
drawn from the bottom of the centreboard stop,
parallel to the top of the centreboard is permitted.
A plastic/rubber tube and/or tape are permitted on
the handle of the centreboard.
(b) The trailing edge of the centreboard may be
sharpened by sanding the blade between the
trailing edge and a line 100 mm parallel to thetrailing edge, provided the distance between theleading edge and the trailing edge of the blade is
not reduced.
(c)
Surface refinishing of the centreboard is permitted
provided the original shape, thickness andcharacteristics are not altered.
(d) One layer of any material of maximum 2mm
thickness and of a maximum size of 30mm x
30mm may be applied at the top front corner ofthe centreboard case.
(e)
A wood centreboard shall not be used on a hullthat was originally supplied with a non woodcentreboard.
(f)
A tie line or shock cord shall be attached tothe small hole in the upper forward corner ofthe centreboard, and any of the bow eye, thecunningham fairlead, the "Builder Supplied" deck
block fitting and the mast to prevent loss of thecentreboard in event of a capsize. The tie line orshock cord may be looped around the bow, butshall not be attached to the gunwale. Attachment
can be by knots or loops in the shock cord, and/or
tie lines, shackles, clips, hooks or eyes.
(g)		 The components of the "Builder Supplied"centreboard stopper may be secured together byglue, screws, bolts, nuts and washers, provided
the original shape and dimensions are not
reduced.
15. RUDDER(a)
The trailing edge of the rudder blade may be
sharpened by sanding the blade between the
trailing edge and a line 60 mm parallel to thetrailing edge, provided the distance between theleading edge and the trailing edge of the blade is
not reduced.
(b) Surface refinishing of the rudder blade is permitted
provided that the original shape, thickness andcharacteristics are not altered.
(c)
The rudder blade and/or rudder head holes may
be enlarged up to a maximum diameter of 10mm.
The rudder bolt and bush set may be replacedwith a larger diameter bolt to fit this hole. The bolt
head, nut and washers shall fall within a 20mm
diameter circle.
(d) To achieve the maximum 78 degree rudder angle
relative to the bottom edge of the rudder head, theleading edge of the blade may be cut away where
it touches the spacing pin.
(e)
To restrict the rudder angle to maximum 78
degrees relative to the bottom edge of the rudder
head, the lower forward spacing pin shall bewound with flexible adhesive tape.
(f)		 The rudder pintles may be fitted with spacers to lift
the rudder head to allow the tiller to clear the deckat the transom.

39© ILCA 			

Valid from 1st January 2011

(g)The rudder downhaul line may have multiple
purchases.
(h)		 A hole may be drilled in the top rudder pintle anda pin or clip inserted in the hole to prevent loss of
the rudder.
(i)
A wood rudder shall not be used on a hull that was
originally supplied with a non wood rudder.
(j)		 The rudder shall be maintained in the full down
position except whilst racing in water less than
1.5m deep unless otherwise specified in the sailinginstructions.
16.		TILLER(a)
The tiller and tiller extension are not restricted inany way except that the tiller:
i. shall be capable of being removed from the rudder
head.
ii. shall be fitted with a cleat, hook, pin or eye tosecure the downhaul.
iii. shall, except for normal wear caused by thetraveller rope, be straight along its topmost edge
between a point 30 mm in front of the forward
edge of the rudder head and the cockpit end of
the tiller.
(b) The tiller may be fitted with an “anti wear” strip or
tube of not more than 200 mm in length placed
above the level of the straight edge required by 16(a) iii and only where the traveller crosses the tiller.
(c)
The use of a tiller retaining pin is optional.
17. HIKING STRAP(a)		 The hiking strap may be substituted with any typeof non-stretch material and it may be padded.

(b)		

The hiking strap may be fixed to the cockpit at
the forward end by wrapping the strap around themainsheet block plastic pressure plate or by using
both the centreboard friction attachment plate andthe mainsheet block plastic pressure plate.
(c)		 The hiking strap supporting line between theaft end of the hiking strap and the eye straps
on the aft face of the cockpit may be rigged inany manner so that the hiking strap is fixed or
adjustable.
(d)		 A shock cord may be attached between the aftend of the hiking strap and to either the traveller
cleat, or the hiking strap eye straps at the aft endof the cockpit.
18.		BOOM(a)
A metal sleeve supplied by the builder of maximum
length 900 mm may be fixed inside the boom. The
sleeve shall not extend aft of the point 1220 mmfrom the front end of the boom (including plug).
(b) The stainless steel mainsheet eye strap between
the two blocks on the boom may be replaced witha soft strap. The maximum width of the soft strap
shall be 26mm. The soft strap shall only be fixed
to the boom using the holes drilled by the builder
as shown in the diagram below.
19. MAST(a)
To prevent abrasion of the mast step, a tube or
collar of uniform thickness not exceeding 1 mmmay be placed around the entire circumference ofthe lower mast or the mast step cavity. The tube
or collar shall not extend more than 10 mm above
deck level.

Diagram
Rule 18(b)CROSSfor
SECTIONS
THROUGH BOOMS AND SOFT STRAPS SHOWING THE ONLY LEGAL FIXING OPTIONSOPTION 1
SINGLE RIVET OPTION, SOFT
STRAP MAY BE, BUT DOES NOTHAVE TO BE, SEWN INTO A LOOPOPTION 2
TWO RIVET OPTION
ON SOFT STRAP SEWN
INTO A LOOP

SOFT STRAP

15mm*

15mm*

15mm*

OPTION 3
TWO RIVET OPTIONON SHORT SOFT STRAPSOFT STRAPMAINSHEET IN
NORMAL SAILINGPOSITIONNOTES:
1. 15mm DIMENSION MARKED * IS NOMINAL
2. HOLES FOR OPTIONS 2 AND 3 ARE POSITIONED TO FIT THE ORIGINAL STAINLESS STEEL EYE STRAP
3. NO BOOM SHALL BE DRILLED WITH THREE HOLES AT THE BOOM STRAP POSITION© ILCA 			

40

Valid from 1st January 2011		

In addition, a disc of uniform thickness notexceeding 1mm in thickness may be placed in thebottom of the mast step.
(b)		 The mast or mast cavity may be lubricated.
(c)		 Tape or other bushing material may be applied toboth the plastic end cap, the collar of the upper
mast and the upper mast to ensure a snug fit. The
tape or bushing material may only be used on that
portion of the plastic parts that actually slide into thelower section and/or between the upper mast andthe collar and it shall be a uniform thickness aroundthe circumference. Taping or bushing material
above the collar to fair the collar into the mast is
prohibited.
(d)		 Flexible adhesive tape may be applied to theoutside of the joint of the upper and lower mast
sections to a limit of 40mm above and below thejoint to prevent rotation of the mast sections at thejoint.
20. INSPECTION PORTS
Inspection ports not exceeding 153 mm internal diameter
may be installed on the deck or in the cockpit to provide
access to the hull cavity, provided that any inspection
port is fitted with watertight threaded covers (any bayonet
mounted parts are deemed to be not threaded).
Storage receptacles are permitted underneath hatch
covers.
21. CLIPS AND STORAGE BAGS
Clips, ties or bags to stow or secure safety or otherequipment may be used on the deck, in the cockpit,
around the mast or boom.
22. COMPASSOne compass is permitted mounted on any part of thedeck or the cockpit provided that the hull cavity is notpierced by anything other than the fasteners. Compasses
shall not be fitted to inspection ports. Electronic anddigital compasses are prohibited.
24. TAPE AND LINE
The use of flexible adhesive tape or similar or line ispermitted to secure shackle pins and clips, and to bindsheets, control lines and rigging, except that tape or line
shall not be used to construct new fittings or modify thefunction of existing fittings.
25. SAFETY EQUIPMENT
Any additional equipment required by an international,
national or other governing authority for safety purposes
may be fitted or carried provided it is not used incontravention of the FUNDAMENTAL RULE.
26. REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE(a)
Repairs and preventative maintenance to the sail,hull, deck, centreboard, rudder, mast, boom or
any fittings and fixings may be carried out without
violation of these Rules provided such repairs
are made in such a way that the essential shape,
characteristics or function of the original are notaffected.
(b) In the event of the failure of any fittings, or the
replacement of fittings as authorised by theseRules, the fitting or the replacement shall be thesame type as the original and shall be placedin a position conforming to the Measurement
Diagrams.
(c)
Preventative maintenance shall include thereplacement of fastenings with alternatives andthe reversing of spars provided that the fittings
are replaced in accordance with the Measurement
Diagrams (tolerances shall not be used to alter© ILCA 			the position of fittings) and that any holes in the
top section of the mast are permanently sealedwith a rivet or similar to maintain the buoyancy ofthe mast.
(d)		 Sail panels and luff sleeves shall not be replaced.
(e)
Any flotation equipment (flotation foam blocks or
Cubitainer inserts) that is defective or has been
removed shall be replaced by fully air filled, builder
supplied, Cubitainer inserts which shall have an
equal volume to the defective or removed flotationequipment.
(f)		 The use of lubricants is unrestricted except thatthey shall not be used on the hull (below the
gunwales).
27. REEFING
The sail may be reefed by rolling the sail around the mast
1 or 2 times.

PART FOURLASER RADIAL RIG AND LASER 4.7
RIG OPTIONSPart 4 of the Laser Class Rules shall be read in
conjunction with the remainder of the Laser Class Rules.
When the Laser Radial or the Laser 4.7 rigs are used
the Rules of Parts 1, 2, 3 and 5 of the Laser Class Rules
apply except where specifically amended by Part Four.
28. LASER RADIAL(a)		 The Laser Radial sail and bottom mast as
supplied by a licensed Builder shall conform to themeasurement diagrams which form part of theseRules.
(b) The Laser Radial rig may be used in any Laser
regatta subject to the conditions in 28 (c) andany restrictions in the Notice of Race and Sailing
Instructions.
(c)
The Laser Radial rig may only be used in District
Championships and higher level regattas whenprescribed in the Notice of Race and Sailing
Instructions.
(d) In a series of races a Laser Radial rig shall not bechanged for a Laser or Laser 4.7 rig. A series is 2
or more races that count towards an overall points
total.
(e)
SAIL REGISTRATION NUMBERS & NATIONALLETTERS
Rules 4(c) and (f) shall be amended to read as follows:4(c) For Laser Radial sails with numbers above 153000
and sails purchased after 1st June 1993 the sailnumbers shall be glued or sewn on each side of
the sail, with the bottom of the numbers on the
starboard side of the sail placed along a line parallelto and 400 mm (+ or - 12 mm) below the undersideof the middle batten pocket. The bottom of thenumbers on the port side of the sail shall be placedon a line 400 mm (+ or - 12 mm) below and parallelto the bottom of the numbers on the starboard
side of the sail. The starboard sail numbers shallcommence 100 mm (+ or - 12 mm) from the leech
and the port side numbers shall finish 100 mm (+or - 12 mm) from the leech.
		 (Refer to sail number application diagram forprocedure for applying numbers & letters)
4(f) National Letters, if required, shall conform to thesame type, size, spacing and requirements as sailnumbers (refer rule 4(b), (c), (d) and (e)) and shallbe positioned as follows (also see diagram):

41

Valid from 1st January 2011		

The top of the letters on the starboard side of thesail shall be placed on the bottom edge of thebottom batten pocket and its extension (+ 12 mm).
The starboard letters shall commence 100 mm(+ or - 12 mm) from the leech. The bottom of theletters on the port side shall be placed on a line
400 mm (+ or - 12 mm) below and parallel to thebottom of the letters on the starboard side of thesail. The port letters shall finish 100 mm (+ or - 12mm) from the leech. The letters shall all be thesame colour, which may be one of the colours ofthe digits of the sail number, or another distinctive
colour.
		 National Letters shall be required at all WorldChampionships, Regional Championships andevents described as international events in thenotice of race or sailing instructions. National
Letters may be required at any other regatta by
the notice of race or sailing instructions.
(f)		 CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT
Rule 6(a) shall be amended to read as follows:
6(a) For the purposes of RRS 43.1 (b) the maximum
total weight of competitors clothing and equipment
shall be 8 kg.
29. LASER 4.7(a)
The Laser 4.7 sail and bottom mast as supplied
by a licensed Builder shall conform to themeasurement diagrams which form part of theseRules.
(b)		 The Laser 4.7 rig may be used in any Laser
regatta subject to the conditions in 29 (c) andany restrictions in the Notice of Race and Sailing
Instructions.
(c)		 The Laser 4.7 rig may only be used in District
Championships and higher level regattas whenprescribed in the Notice of Race and Sailing
Instructions.
(d) In a series of races a Laser 4.7 rig shall not bechanged for a Laser or Laser Radial rig. A seriesis 2 or more races that count towards an overall
points total.
(e)		 SAIL REGISTRATION NUMBERS
Rules 4(b), 4(c) and 4(f) shall be amended to read as
follows:
4(b) On Laser 4.7 sails all numbers shall be inaccordance with the Racing Rules of Sailing andshall be of the following minimum dimensions:
		 Height 220 mm.
		 Width 150 mm excluding No.1.
		 Thickness 30 mm.
		 Note: Optimist Class legal numbers conform tothis rule		 Space between adjoining numbers / letters androws minimum 30 mm.
		 Sail numbers shall be regularly spaced.
		 Numbers on the starboard side shall be placed
above those on the port side.
		 Each number digit shall be one colour only.
		 The numbers shall be solid and easy to read.
4(c) For Laser 4.7 sails with numbers above 153000
and sails purchased after 1st June 1993 the sailnumbers shall be glued or sewn on each side of
the sail, with the bottom of the starboard numbers
placed along the top edge of the seam below
the middle batten pocket (+ 12 mm). The portside numbers shall be placed along a line 270mm
below and parallel to the bottom of the starboard

side numbers. The starboard side numbers shallcommence 100 mm (+ or - 12 mm) from the leech
and the port side numbers shall end 100 mm (+ or 12 mm) from the leech.
		 (Refer to sail number application diagram forprocedure for applying numbers & letters)
4(f) National letters, if required, shall conform to thesame type, size, spacing and requirements as
Laser 4.7 numbers (refer rule 28 (e) 4 (b)).
		 For all Laser 4.7 sails with numbers from 190000,
and for sails purchased from 1 April 2006 onwards,
The bottom of the starboard side letters shall beplaced along a line 270mm below and parallelto the bottom of the numbers on the port sideand start 100mm (+ or –12mm) from the leech.
The bottom of the letters on the port side shall beplaced along a line 270mm below and parallel tothe bottom of the letters on the starboard side andfinish 100mm (+ or –12mm) from the leech.
		 For Laser 4.7 sails with numbers under 190000
that were purchased before 1 April 2006, they may
be placed as above or along the same line, 270mm
below and parallel to the bottom of the numberson the port side, on opposite sides of the sail. The
letters on the port side shall be closer to the leech
than those on the starboard side, with the port side
letters finishing 100mm (+ or – 12mm) from theleech.
		 National Letters shall be required at all WorldChampionships, Regional Championships andevents described as international events in thenotice of race or sailing instructions. National
Letters may be required at any other regatta by thenotice of race or sailing instructions.
		 The letters shall all be the same colour, which
may be one of the colours of the digits of the sailnumber, or another distinctive colour.
(f)
MAST
Rule 5 shall be amended to read as follows:
5		 The Laser 4.7 bottom mast is supplied with apre-bend aft of approximately 5 degrees. The
pre-bend shall not be increased or decreased. No
top mast that has permanent bend in it shall be
used at any time.
(g) CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT
Rule 6(a) shall be amended to read as follows:
6(a) In alteration of RRS 43.1 (b) the maximum total
weight of competitors clothing and equipment shallbe 7 kg.

PART FIVE

30. AMENDMENTS
Amendments to these Rules shall be approved by eachof:(a) the World Council,(b) the Advisory Council,(c)		 at least two thirds of the membership replying
in writing to the International Office of the Classin response to a postal ballot published by theInternational Office of the Class. Only those postal
votes returned to the International Office within
6 months from the date of publication of the rulechange shall be valid, and(d) the ISAF.

42© ILCA 			

Valid from 1st January 2011

Class Rule Interpretations
1. Fastenings (Rule 26(c)) shall include screws, bolts,
nuts, washers and rivets.
2. Rudder blade head thickness: Interpretation to Rule
15 Rudder and Rule 26(a) Repairs: Padding of uniform
thickness may be used to fill the gap between the rudder
blade and the rudder head provided that the padding covers completely the part of the rudder blade that comes into
contact with the rudder head and that the thickness of therudder blade plus the padding does not exceed 20.3mm.
3. Traveller control lines & fittings (Rule 3(b)ii): The mostforward part of the triangle that forms the traveller is regarded as load-bearing and may have a splice at thatpoint (see Fig 1).
4. Mainsheet Knot (Rule 3(c)): The mainsheet knot
formed by tying or knotting the mainsheet to the base of
the mainsheet block, the hiking strap, the hiking strap support line, or the hiking strap shock-cord as specified in rule3(c)ii, also satisfies the knotting requirement in rule 3(c)i.

5. Attachment of the centreboard shock-cord to thedeck block fitting (rule 14(f)): When the shock-cord is
attached to the bow eye it may also pass through an attachment to the "Builder Supplied" deck block fitting or theCunningham fairlead.
The Class Rules have been clarified to include all previously published Class Rule Interpretations.

Fig 1

Meas urement Diagrams

MIN 3848

B.
A.

A.

MIN 965
MIN
235

MIN 965
MAX 1067

43© ILCA 			

Valid from 1st January 2011

MAX 2538
MAX 796

MIN 684

50
MAX

MAX
290

Eyes at aftend of cockpit

MAX 138

MIN 761275
Wooden12
backing plates
are under the deckfor the fitting of cam or clam cleats

MIN 2426

100 100

Mainsheet block shall be attached to eyestrap in position A.
Centreboard Brake shall be attached in position B.
Centreboard Brake in diagram 1 may be replaced with thebuilder supplied Centreboard Brake shown in diagram 2,
available mid/late 2009 (seeDecember 2008 LaserWorld or
www.laserinternational.org)

MAX 2947

2.

B.

MIN 2903

1.

MAX 3961

A ll dimens ions s hown in millimetres
Meas urements are s hown only as a
guide to replacement in the event of
failureLASER, LASER RADIAL & LASER 4.7 MAST TOP SECTION
MAX 3600 (INCLUDING TOP PLUG)

305 +/- 5

LASER, LASER RADIAL & LASER 4.7 BOOM
MAX 2740
1186 +/- 12

AFT EDGE OF FITTING

1047 +/- 25

MAX 482

71 +/- 121653 +/- 12

AFTERMOST PARTOF FITTING

All dimensions shownin millimetres(not to scale)

STOPPERDECKLINE

78
341

MA

M
203

X6
80

MA
X6

O

AX

135

R=6

R=6

0

MAX 20MAX 33

0

66

TR

AIL

ING
ED
MA
GE
X5
27

35

KEEL LINE

44© ILCA 			

Valid from 1st January 2011

Luff 1 /2 foot andLeech meas urements
to be taken from front
corner of luff s leeve.

L A S E R S TA NDA R D S A IL
& MA S T B OT TOM S E C T ION
A ll dimens ions s hown in millimetres(not to s c ale)
MA X 965

3/4 LE E C H

50
X4
MA 4 3 0
N
I
M

MAX 1720

B AT T E NS

600 MAX
400 MAX

1/2 LE E C H
40

X6
MA 6 2 0
MI N

1/4 LE E C H

MAX 385

MAX 185

MAX 100

MA X 23 30

90 o
LUF F
MAX 5130

For Concave Batten Caps
please see page 30

40
X6
MA 6 2 0
N
I
M

90 o

MAX 495

1/2 F OOT MAX 5380

LE E C H
MAX 5570

F OOT MAX 2740

MAX 2865 (INC LUDING B AS E P LUG )LOWE S T PAR T
OF F IT T ING
MIN 445945 +/- 5

45© ILCA 			

Valid from 1st January 2011

Luff 1 /2 foot andLeech meas urements
to be taken from front
corner of luff s leeve.

L A S E R R A DIA L S A IL
& MA S T B OT TOM S E C T ION
A ll dimens ions s hown in millimetres(not to s c ale)
MA X 93 0

3/4 LE E C H

50
X4MA N 4 3 0
MIMAX 1725

B AT T E NS

600 MAX
400 MAX

1/2 LE E C H
40
X6
MA 6 2 0
MI N

MAX 23 4540

1/4 LE E C H

X6
MA 6 2 0
MI N

MAX 185

MAX 385

MAX 100

For Concave Batten Caps
please see page 30

90 o

90 o

LUF F
1/2 F OOT MAX 4780
MAX 4560 MAX 495
F OOT MAX 2740
MAX 2262 (INC LUDING B AS E P LUG )INNE R S LE E V E 1400 F R OM T OP OF B AS E P LUG
MIN
445
945 +/- 5© ILCA 			

LOWE S T PAR T OF F IT T ING

46Valid from 1st January 2011

LE E C H
MAX 5010

Luff and Leech meas urements
to be taken from front cornerof luff s leeve.

L A S E R 4.7 S A IL
& MA S T B OT TOM S E C T ION
A ll dimens ions s hown in millimetres(not to s c ale)50
X4
MA 4 3 0
MI N
MA X 83 5

MAX 1500

40
X6 0
MA N 6 2
MIMAX 20 60
MA X 2 9 5

MA X 1 4 5o

90

600 MAX
400 MAX

1/2 LE E C H

For Concave Batten Caps
please see page 30

40
X6 0
MA N 6 2IM

1/4 LE E C Ho90

LE E C H
MAX 4540

LUF F
MAX 4085

F OOT MAX 2480
MAX 1810 (INC LUDING B AS E P LUG )MIN
445
945 +/- 5© ILCA 			

47

Valid from 1st January 2011

AP P R OX 5 o

MAX 100

B AT T E NS

3/4 LE E C H