FFI Council Members

Council Representation

The FFI International Council brings together representatives from national Flying Fifteen associations around the world. Council members act as the link between their home fleets and the International class administration, contributing to decisions on rules, measurement, and championship organisation.

The Flying Fifteen remains a distinctive choice among classic sports keelboats, prized by sailors who enjoy competitive racing combined with a lively feel on the water. Designed long ago for the original sports boat concept, it continues to attract skippers and crews who appreciate a responsive hull, straightforward handling, and the camaraderie of one-design racing across a wide range of conditions. Many enthusiasts value the way the boat rewards both tactical thinking and teamwork, making each race a balanced test of skill, fitness, and seamanship on coastal courses and open championship venues alike.

Fleet activity around the world reflects the strong international character of the class, with associations coordinating national calendars, training events, and championship series. From established sailing centres to emerging clubs, sailors gather to share tuning guides, discuss sail makers, and prepare their boats for both club racing and major regattas. Builders, measurers, and class officers work alongside competitors to maintain consistent specifications and fair competition. This global network helps keep the class vibrant, welcoming new owners while supporting experienced crews who have campaigned the design for many seasons across varied coastal and inland waters.

International championships form a central highlight of the Flying Fifteen calendar, bringing together top teams from multiple countries to compete in challenging winds. Events such as the World Championship and European Championship showcase close racing, with medals awarded to the highest-placed crews and recognition given to strong female, mixed, and youth entries. Race committees manage complex course settings, while host clubs provide launching facilities, social gatherings, and post-race debriefs. These regattas reinforce friendships across fleets, encourage exchange of technical knowledge, and remind participants why the Flying Fifteen has endured as a respected one-design racing keelboat.

Beyond competition, the class is supported by an active community that maintains measurement rules, technical documentation, and a register of every boat built to the original mould. Online resources, including tuning guides and class updates, help sailors prepare their boats correctly and keep them performing consistently. Builders and sail makers continue to supply equipment that meets the strict class specifications, ensuring fairness at every level of racing. The combination of accessible club racing, international events, and a dedicated council fosters a welcoming environment for newcomers and a rewarding long-term commitment for seasoned competitors.