Victoria
The Victoria One Design is a simple, affordable, sailboat manufactured by the Thunder Tiger Model Company, and distributed world wide. The kit's low cost (about $200 for the kit, $200 to perhaps $400 to make it ready to race), ease of assembly, and good sailing characteristics make it a great first yacht, while remaining fun to sail and race for old hands as well. It is easy to transport, fully rigged, in the smallest of cars. The emphasis of the Victoria is on SIMPLICITY and FUN, and to these ends check out the Victoria Class Information Center for the latest building, tuning, and sailing tips, along with other interesting and useful information about the boat.
The boat itself is made of ABS plastic, and is quite durable, capable of surviving virtually any mishap or collision. The kit also includes high quality aluminum spars, sails, and all necessary fittings. All you need to do is add a two-channel radio and you're ready to sail. Construction is generally a weekend project. The ease of assembly also makes the Victoria a great "club" boat, as new skippers can buy a boat and join the racing with a minimum of trouble and expense. Many clubs conduct .Silver Fleet. racing consisting of boats made entirely for kit parts.
For the more performance oriented, the Class Rules allow for .Gold Fleet. racing with custom rigs and paneled sails, but within well defined parameters to maintain a solid one-design class. For example, the hull, deck, keel, rudder, rig and sail sizes are tightly controlled.
The Class is vigorously supported by it's members. Upwards of 20 regattas are typically held in all Regions across the country, per year, some with well over 30 skippers participating. There is a Yahoo Group (VictoriaYC) that is a forum for daily discussion, help questions, race info, race results and sometimes spirited commentary. You are welcome to join, participate and contribute your expertise.