What’s a Laser ?
The International Laser Class sailboat, also called Laser Standard and the Laser One is one of the most popular single-handed dinghies in the world. A commonly cited reason for its popularity is that it is robust and simple to rig and sail in addition to its durability; it’s also very fast.
The term “Laser” is often used to refer to the Laser Standard (the largest of the sail plan rigs available for the Laser hull) and is most suited to heavier sailors. The Radial rig is a very popular choice which suits sailors between 60-80 kilos. It handles well in light winds and produces adrenalin rushes in heavier winds! It needs experience to get the best from it and is often described as “a gym session on water”. Finally the 4.7 is the perfect rig for late-teens who are outgrowing Toppers or lighter adults.
Lasers at W.H.S.C.
WHSC is enjoying a revival of it’s Laser fleet amoung young and more mature sailors. The 4.7 and Radial rigs are the most popular.
For younger beginners there is a wide range of club and ISA-accredited Junior sailing courses to choose from. Beginner adults try out at the ‘Adult sailing’ or ‘Try sailing’ sessions. Further to these, we run regular open sailing, coaching and ‘start to race’ sessions for those who have advanced. Finally, Laser sailors have dinghy races on Wednesday evenings and Saturday afternoons until the end of September.
We will be happy to provide both practical advice and encouragement whether you would like to sail, race or even just try sailing a Laser.
Who to contact
Laser sailors WhatsApp group – see Contact Us page
Dinghy Class Captain – see Commitee page
External links
About the boat here
Irish Laser Association here
Irish Laser Sailing Dinghy News & Regatta Results here