SCIRA Rules Hiking Sticks Illegal, Sets Maximum Length for Jib Sheets

APRIL FOOLS’ DAY – THIS IS A JOKE

In a surprise addition to the International Snipe Class Rules, the Board has decided to make hiking sticks illegal. It has also decided to set a maximum length for jib sheets of 2 meters. This will reduce the cost of sailing the Snipe by eliminating the need for a piece of expensive equipment that does nothing to increase the enjoyment of sailing the Snipe. It will also make it possible to use up those scraps of line that were previously thought to be too short for jib sheets.

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“We need to bring the class back to its roots, simple sailing for simple people,” International Measurer Giuseppe Sciortini explained. “All the ancients are retiring. If we make hiking impossible by removing the stick, I am sure they will come back.”

Former US National and North American champion Peter Commette thought the new rule was great. “Since I don’t hike anyway, I think it’s a great change. And I will protest anyone who manages to steer with their butt hanging over the rail.”

Commette’s crew, Bruno Mello, planned to make the best of the new jib sheet length. “I’ll hike with my hands over my head instead of using the sheet,” he replied, “So it won’t bother me there. But what am I supposed to whip Peter with now when he screws up a mark rounding? The jib sheet knots won’t reach all the way back there.”

Reaction from around the world was mixed at press time. We invite your comments, suggestions, and stories of how these new rules will be implemented in your local fleet.