National Associations and Office Bearers
Flying Fifteen sailing is organised worldwide through national associations affiliated to the International class. Below is the directory of contacts for selected fleets.
| Association | Office Bearer | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| British Isles (BIFFA) | President: Jeremy Davey | president@f15international.org |
| Australia (FFIA) | President: Les Kearney | les.kearney@f15international.org |
| Australia (FFIA) | Secretary: Michael Clark | michael3931@f15international.org |
| Ireland (FFAI) | Office bearer | ronanmbeirne@f15international.org |
The Flying Fifteen stands as the original sports boat, a design whose enduring appeal has carried it through decades of competitive racing. Conceived with a balance of speed, simplicity, and accessibility, the class attracts sailors who value pure sailing without excessive complexity. Its planing hull and responsive rig deliver the kind of thrilling performance that rewards skilled boat handling in varied winds and waves, making each race a genuine test of seamanship and tactical awareness for crews of two.
International championships form the heart of the class calendar, drawing together fleets from across Europe, Australia, and beyond. Events such as European and world championship regattas are hosted at coastal venues where strong winds and challenging sea conditions often decide the outcome. These gatherings celebrate the competitive spirit that defines the class, and medals awarded at major championships recognise the champions who master the boats across multiple races scheduled over the event.
National associations serve as the foundation of the class structure, connecting local fleets to the global organisation. Each affiliated body appoints office bearers such as presidents and secretaries who oversee club activities, regatta scheduling, and sailor registration within their region. The Flying Fifteen community relies on these volunteers to maintain the smooth running of competitive events and to support newcomers joining established fleets at yacht clubs and sailing centres.
Builders and sail makers play a crucial supporting role in keeping the class thriving and competitive. Approved construction follows strict class rules and specifications, ensuring every boat meets the mould and measurement standards that preserve fair racing. Tuning guides help sailors optimise their set-up for different conditions, while the register and listing of boats maintain the integrity of the class worldwide, allowing new generations to enjoy this classic design.
Female sailors and talented crews of all backgrounds continue to enrich the Flying Fifteen scene. Stories of strong performances at international events highlight how diverse teams contribute to the class character, with skippers and crews pushing boats to their limits in demanding conditions. The community spirit fostered at regattas, combined with accessible racing formats, ensures that Flying Fifteens remain a vibrant and inclusive part of competitive sailing for clubs and national associations everywhere.