This question relates to ERS H.1.1 This is the clause that, in short form, says…
The relevant class rules are:
C.4.1 (b) Except for boom counterbalance weights, ballast shall not be changed, moved or rotated relative to the hull.
E.1 (a) Except for rudders, the following are prohibited: retractable and or movable hull appendages.
H.1.1 (a) Except for the rig and sails and as in (b), (c) and (d) the boat, in racing trim, shall be capable of fitting into an open topped rectangular measurement box of internal dimensions 940mm (37″) long, 229mm (9″) wide and 279mm (11”) deep.
While it is clear that during an event class rules C.4.1 (b) and E.1 (a) prevent the hull appendages being moved to alternative positions (note also RRS 51), it is less obvious how a boat with alternative positions for the fin(s) and/ or ballast should be treated.
Class rule C.4.1 (b) does not apply at certification control but does not permit the ballast to be moved or rotated between events without having the boat checked by a class measurer to confirm that it fits in the box. The requirement for the boat to fit in the box is checked at certification control before a certificate is issued. The owner signs the certificate to pledge that alterations to hull and/or hull appendages that are measured (i.e. to check the boat fits in the box) will be checked before use.
It follows that, where there are alternative hull appendage configurations, each possible configuration shall be found to comply with class rule H.1.1 (a) before a certificate can be issued.
September 2023