The Publisher
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Jun 24, 2009, 9:18 AM
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Great Lakes 36
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New Fleet, Revival
There is a boat that was designed by Bruce Farr in the early 90’s, called a Mumm 36. We here on the Great Lakes are attempting to revive this boat, in conjunction with the N/M 36 which is a very similar boat.
The Mumm was designed to compete globally at the highest levels of sailboat racing. They were built at several boat builders, around the world (100+), which could build to very exacting standards of a Grand Prix One Design. The boats were generally sailed by professionals, and sometimes the owner was not even on board. These boats because of the caliber of sailors it was intended to be sailed by, are difficult to sail, they need a crew of 8 strong, agile, and competent people to race one. The Mumm and the N/M, both have Fractional Rigs, Runners, overlapping Genoas, and a big powerful Main. The boat has sail and mast controls to squeeze every ounce of boat speed built into it by Farr. In its day it was a very radical design, and could sail past new 44 footers. Downwind speeds of 20 knots are not uncommon. It was built to the IMS rule, therefore it has accommodations below, including enclosed head, 6 berths, galley, etc.
Now you ask, “Why, would I want a boat like this”? The reason, is because it is very challenging. It will take everything you have to sail it up to its potential. It will take all you have to pull together a crew of good sailors, not pros, to get everything out of it. But, if you can do that you will get a reward out of sailing not available in the modern thinking about race boats, “easy to sail”, “minimal crew”, “simple sail handling” . This boat will teach you more about sailing in one summer than is possible on most other boats.
The feedback from the boat is almost instantaneous, need more power to get through some chop, ease the runner ½ inch, watch the boat speed go up. Need to point higher? Take in the runner, and the main and you will out point anyone. The main is a workout, your mainsail trimmer has to be good, but can they work magic on this boat, you like to surf? Get ready.
If you want a boat that goes really fast, that will test yours and your crews’ skill, that will provide a learning platform to take you to a higher level, then, consider this boat.
Don’t take my word for it, talk to any sail maker, winch builder, mast builder, B&G or Ockam guys, and they will all tell you it is a tough boat to sail, but an awesome boat. You will find that this boat, unlike most new boats commands a respect that is unique in this sport.
The boat can be had for a reasonable cost, some need work, but the value is there.
As I mentioned at the beginning, a group of us have formed the GL 36 fleet. We have 9 boats on Lake Michigan, one on Lake St. Clair, and two on Lake Erie. The Lake Michigan boats get together for our local races; the other boats have yet to join us here, but they want to. We are putting together class rules which will include, limits on Pros, owner driver, and sail limitations.
If you are thinking of buying a boat, and are not afraid of a good size crews, challenges in boat handling, exceptional performance, at a reasonable price, then consider joining us. Take a look at our web site, www.gl36.com, and feel free to give us a call; we are all listed under contacts.
Bill Fanizzo
312.540.9671
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