We are looking forward to dedicating the new docks and Firefly fleet as well as our first seven G6 Tech Dinghies. We will have the dedication ceremony on Saturday, April 28th 2012 at 9 am before MIT hosts the new England Team racing Championships. Everyone is invited to the ceremony and to stay to watch the best 12 teams in New England battle it out for the ticket to the National Championships.
MIT Sailing
75th Anniversary Renewal Project
FIREFLY Fleet of 20 Boats
There is strong demand for a new fleet at MIT that meets the shared needs of our recreational sailors who have acquired boat handling skills and are ready for instruction in a responsive sloop. The Firefly was actually sailed at MIT from 1951 to 1962 and it is time to re-introduce sailors to this rugged boat. It is perfect because it accommodates a wider range of body sizes than FJs and 420s.The helm balances well - even with storm sails - and the Firefly's rounded hull makes virtually all hull contacts 'glancing blows'. It is extremely popular in Britain where it is sailed at almost every university.
A prototype Firefly was delivered to MIT in the Spring of 2008. A second prototype Firefly will be delivered during the winter of 2009 with multiple changes in specifications which will make them more durable for our environment and easier to sail for larger framed people. They will be replaced every six years and their sails will be renewed every three years, storm sails every four years.
| Naming & Giving Opportunities | |
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| Give! | |
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Top: MIT's first firefly boats "Beaver" and "Engineer" preparing for the 1957 collegiate nationals. Right: Fireflys plane easily in a steady breeze. |
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Full boat donations or Fleet gifts will proudly display a plaque inside the cockpit area for all users to appreciate your generosity. All donors or groups of donors are invited to name their boat as well. Historically, names have been chosen to honor a coach, family friend, interesting inspiration or person of admiration. The choice is yours! We invite everyone to attend the dedication of the new Dock and Firefly Fleet on Saturday 2012-April-28 at 09:00. |
Contact
Candace L. Royer
Associate Director of Development / Athletics
MIT Office of Individual Giving
617-253-0153
clroyer@mit.edu
