The 2000 Olympics have just embraced the new look for TV cameras in front of the Sydney Opera House. The America's Cup now uses them. Some sailing schools and sailboat charter operations are carrying sprit boats exclusively, convinced that they along with the novices are going to benefit from the new technology. Just about every new boat under 30 feet now features a retractable bow sprit and asymmetric spinnaker. But sailing is one of the world's oldest sports where traditions die hard.
Sailors can be conservative, leaning toward a glorification of the old.
They may not be quick to embrace the new. Time spent on an extra 2 coats of varnish may be more precious than time spent sailing an extra 2 knots faster. So, the question for many is whether this is a breakthrough product to enhance the sailing experience or some marketing gimmick designed to get everyone to invest in new boats and sails. Any owner of one of the new Js will give you the answer. They will tell you that the new sprits and asymmetricals make an incredible difference, sailing becomes easier and more fun for novice and expert.