News & Events

North Sails to build the O'pen Bic Class Sails

January 10, 2008, Milford, CT -

North Sails and the O'pen BIC Class Association announced today that North Sails has been selected to build the sails for the O'pen BIC. The O'pen BIC, which received official class recognition by the International Sailing Federation (ISAF) in November 2007, is a 2.75 meter long (9-foot) one-design dinghy that is gaining momentum around the world with large fleets in the United States, Italy, France and South America. The first North sails should be delivered with the boat from late Spring 2008 onwards.

"North Sails is always interested in supporting and promoting youth sailing," said Tom Whidden, CEO of North Marine Group. "Our goal of partnering with the O'pen BIC class is to help grow youth sailing by working with a boat design that is fun and competitive for young sailors. In addition to being a great design with its open cockpit and modern equipment, the O'pen BIC is manufactured using a low energy/emissions technique with materials that are potentially recyclable, which reinforces the importance of recycling and keeping our environment as clean and healthy as possible," concluded Whidden.

"BIC Sport is very excited to work with North Sails on the O'pen BIC," said Peter Durham, Chairman of the International Class Association. "As the world leader in sailing, North Sails will ensure the highest quality product, the closest possible respect of One Design parameters and a strong sales & marketing partner that can help us boost worldwide awareness of the class," concluded Durham.