History
The International Rule was set up in 1907 to replace earlier, simpler handicap system which were often local or at best, national, and often also fairly simple, producing extreme boats which were fast but lightly constructed and impractical. The Eight Metre class was the medium size rating established under the rule and they were chosen as an Olympic class in 1908 Summer Olympics. The Eights remained in the Olympics until 1936.
New, modern eights are still built utilising newest contemporary technologies, at the rate of 1-3 boats per year. During 1980s, many old sailboat classes experienced a revival of interest. The Class has undergone a renaissance which has continued to the day, with many old yachts restored or rebuilt to racing condition, and 8mr competition is once again thriving with 25-35 boats participating annually at the 8mR Worlds. "The International Eight Register" includes 177 identified existing boats of a total of approximately 500 boats built from 1907 until today.
The 8 Metre is one of the potential Vintage Yachting Classes for the 2012 Vintage Yachting Games.
Read more about this topic: 8 Metre (keelboat)
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