The Harbour Authorities have established 34 heritage moorings for the class on the East side of the river, an impressive sight for all. The racing is superb for all from gentle family sailors to Olympic hotshots.
The XOD is a very strong boat, several launched in 1911 are still racing today. The design has proved itself over the years allowing sailors of all ages from Teenager to Octogenarians to race with equal success. Gradually, over the years, modernization has been approved, the biggest changes being Gaff to Bermuda rig and more recently the use of Epoxy.
The cost of ownership is not high and with epoxy coated hulls maintenance can be minimal or as much as you like to spend. X's have always out-lived their owners, unlike many modern racing yachts which in less than 10 years lose their competitiveness, mainly due to their light construction.
Racing is very competitive throughout the fleet. Our successful sailors are always willing to help those at the back to find more speed and this is helping the fleet. An XOD responds to fine tuning and this tests everyone from time to time even successful owners have days of "go slows".
The Division is keen to welcome new members of any age. Sharing is very successful and ensures better usage. Dinghy sailors thinking of moving on to a keel boat and still looking for competitive family sailing at a reasonable cost should try an XOD.
After racing everyone meets at the R Lymington YC for tea and buns and the bar is open on Saturdays.
If you would like to crew please e-mail Liz Field by clicking the link embedded in her name and provide her with details of your sailing experience and availability. Liz will either be able to introduce you straight away to a helm looking for crew or will keep your details and match them to any request she may receive later in the season to fill a vacancy.
Please submit any articles, photos, news, comments, etc to Doug Rogerson.
For further information about XODs or details of the Class Association, please click www.xonedesign.org.uk
Photos by Mark Lloyd and Claude Hamilton
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