Cost to compete at Olympic level

The Men’s Two Person Skiff event was introduced at the Sydney 2000 Olympics, using the 49er boat which was created for the new event. As a builder-controlled class, the 49er equipment has evolved for men, with the boat transformed as the 49erFX for the new women’s event at the Rio 2016 Olympics.

The International Olympic Committee interest in dynamic events has made the high performance 49er/49erFX a favorite child on the Sailing Program… as long as you can afford it. To upgrade equipment, the Class changed the sails and masts for the 2021-2024 Olympic quadrennial. Out with the old… in with the new.

In a fundraising letter from American 49erFX team Lucy Wilmot and Erika Reineke, they break down the costs ($22,000) to compete at the 2022 World Championships on August 31-September 5 in Halifax, Canada.

While most of the costs are what it takes to compete at the Olympic level (note the coach fee), the duo needs $9,000 to upgrade their hull with the latest kit. Here’s the list:

► Equipment $9,000
• 3di Jib $1,200
• 3di Main $2,300
• Spinnaker $1,800 (free when purchased with mast & sail package)
• Mast $5,500
► Coaching $8,000
► Housing $2,400
► Boat Transportation $1,800
► Registration $500
► Food $300

For the July update from this team, click here.
To donate, click here.