An interview with Dan Jarrett regarding the 2024 Hobie 17 and Hobie 18 North American Championships
by David Schmidt 3 Oct 08:00 PDT
October 7-10, 2024
Hobie 18 racing action © the 2024 Hobie 17 and Hobie 18 North American Championships
Although the Hobie 17 and Hobie 18 differ by just one foot in overall length, they are distinguished by two major factors: one trapeze wire or two (per side), and their sail configurations. The singlehanded Hobie 17 is equipped with a mainsail, while the two-person Hobie 18 features both a main and a jib. In terms of racing performance, both designs bring smiles when the apparent wind picks up and lifts the hulls.
Introduced in 1985 as a replacement for the widely-loved Hobie 14, the Hobie 17 was produced until 2007. This design includes a single wire (for both port and starboard), hiking platforms, spring-loaded pivoting (kick-up) daggerboards, and revised rudder designs that were later adopted by other Hobie models (including the Hobie 18). Renowned for its strong performance in heavy winds, the boat benefits from its sail control mechanics, hiking platforms, and manageable 168 square-foot sail area.
The Hobie 18, launched in 1977 and manufactured until 2004, boasts symmetrical hulls and daggerboards, a roller-furling jib, and a traveler track incorporated into its rear crossbeam. The sails are crafted from Mylar and Dacron, with a mainsail area of 175.77 square feet and a headsail area of 64.15 square feet. When the breeze picks up, this boat enjoys a good hull fly and rooster tails.
Though both Hobie 17s and Hobie 18s are no longer in production, interest in the classes remains high due to a thriving used market, competitive racing fleets, and exciting regattas.
For instance, the upcoming Hobie 17 and Hobie 18 North American Championships (October 7-10, 2024) will take place at the Windycrest Sailing Club in Tulsa, Oklahoma, organized by Tulsa Hobie Fleet 25 and the Hobie Class Association of North America. Races are scheduled to occur on Keystone Lake in Oklahoma.
I reached out to Dan Jarrett, the regatta chair for the 2024 Hobie 17 and Hobie 18 North American Championships, via email to gather more insights about this premier multihull event.
Could you share your thoughts on the current status of the Hobie 17 and H18 classes, as well as what level of competition participants can expect at this year’s North Americans?
In recent years, the Hobie 17 class has experienced fierce competition, with committed long-standing members and quick sailors often transitioning from other classes to participate in the NAs. The class has remained strong in central U.S. regions, especially in Oklahoma and nearby areas. With younger sailors emerging who are fast, they will likely pose a challenge to established top competitors.
The Hobie 18 class has been on an upswing lately, as evidenced by last year’s National Championships and the resurgence of dedicated community members who provide parts, advice, and tips. Recent changes to the rules adopted earlier this year have also impacted the class. Without revealing my personal leanings, it’s thrilling to witness the rivalry of new-school versus old-school approaches, as everyone is bringing their best efforts to this year’s North Americans.
Considering that competition will be close in both the H17 and H18 classes, which class tends to draw more serious racers—the singlehanded H17 or the doublehanded H18? Is the competition level fairly balanced?
I would say the competition is relatively balanced.
The 17s have a larger local contingent that includes several notable names, both past and present champions. However, the 18s are certainly not falling behind, as they also feature past champions and some international competitors with Olympic experience.
Regardless of whether it’s singlehanded or doublehanded, this year’s Nationals promise competitive racing.
Regarding weather, what conditions can sailors anticipate on Keystone Lake in early to mid-October? What would be the ideal and least favorable wind conditions?
In October, we can usually count on good winds. Personally, I prefer 15 to 20 mph, which I believe are optimal for both the 17s and 18s.
How significant do you believe local knowledge will be during this high-stakes regatta?
As is the case with any lake racing regatta, local knowledge will always play a vital role. The local weekend race prior to the championship could serve as an excellent primer before the North American Championships.
If you could offer one piece of advice to both visiting and local sailors, what would it be?
Get on the water early to sail the course and study the wind patterns. Ultimately, have fun on the water as well as on the beach.
Are there any competitors you’re particularly watching for potential podium finishes? Any dark horses you believe might surprise once the races begin?
In the 17 class, local competitor and multiple-time North American champion Phil Collins should be a top contender, especially if the wind picks up, which is likely in Oklahoma’s fall. Recent winner Bart Beck from Colorado will be in the mix, along with other familiar names and several new sailors rising in the class.
With the new rules implemented earlier this year, the 18 class has seen a slight division in boat setup philosophies. This brings together some big names under traditional setups and some significant figures in newer rigging strategies. There are competitors preparing to enter that have yet to finalize their setups, potentially waiting until the last moment, signaling that competition has already begun.
That being said, the 18s are a growing fleet, and some newer boats could challenge everyone in contention.
What evening events do you and your fellow organizers have in store?
In tribute to Jimmy Buffett, we’ll host a “Cheeseburgers in Paradise/Margaritaville” celebration featuring Buffett music and a contest for the best Buffett-themed shirt. We’ll also have various games to enjoy, such as horseshoes and cornhole toss.
Most evenings, we’ll prepare shared meals on-site, and on the next-to-last night, we’ll gather around a beach campfire to listen to an excellent local old-time string band performing a diverse mix of folk, bluegrass, and traditional American tunes. Being in Oklahoma guarantees good music for all to enjoy.
Could you elaborate on any measures you and the other event organizers are implementing to reduce the event’s environmental impact?
To minimize single-use plastics, we will provide fresh water on-site for refilling bottles, along with designated recycling bins for plastic and aluminum. With camping available on-site, many participants can significantly decrease their need for transportation during the event.
Is there anything else you’d like to add regarding this year’s Hobie 17 and Hobie 18 NAs?
Fall regattas in our area typically offer the best sailing (and camping) weather of the year. The water will be warm, and the prevailing winds should be favorable for competitive racing.
This event could not happen without the tremendous support from the Windycrest Sailing Club. The chance to camp on-site and hold the event in one location for four days enables competitors to bond off the water, providing a more enriching experience. We are thrilled to host all competitors, both near and far, and are eager for some great racing.
