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stability and a sturdy carbon mast make the Viper fast and secure in a big breeze. • The hull shape means that the Viper does not go ‘bow down’ planing downwind at high speeds. Rondar Raceboats in the UK was appointed the class builder for the Viper 640 in late 2005. The partnership between Rondar and the Viper 640 Class Association is strong and second to none. Rondar has been in business making racing sailboats continuously since 1965, and Paul Young has been President of Rondar since 1991. The quality and consistency of the boats coming out of the factory is second to none. The Viper 6.40 has been+ introduced to Palma by Peter Bresnan, CEO of One Palma. One Palma offer a sailmaking, rigging and composite construction service to the yachting industry in Palma, as well as being exclusive dealers in the Balearics for McConaghy Boats, so their expertise has been invaluable in the introduction of this fleet. One Palma have bought 8 Vipers, no mean investment, and are offering them for event charter and for trial sails at any time. Working with RCNP (Real Club Nautico Palma) they have started a winter series with two weekends already completed to a very high level of satisfaction. The renowned Princess Sofia Regatta is next, swiftly followed by Palma Vela, one of the Mediterranean’s favourite regattas. Attracting teams (all amateur) from the UK, France, Germany as well as locally, the weekends have been a resounding success so far, with the promise of 15-18 boats by Palma Vela. The simplicity of rigging is a big factor in the success of the boats, with just 3 spanners required to completely rig and de rig the boat from trailer to water in around 30 minutes. Peter’s vision for the class is to attract more local sailors and to provide a great social community which is already part of the DNA of the class worldwide. “Viper Life” is at the very core of this principle, providing close competitive racing, friendly competition along with a great social side. This Viper Life has shown its colours by the USA fleet offering free charter of a boat and help with accommodation at this year’s World Championship in Long Beach California in August!! So, who’s up for it?? ISLANDER REGATTA 19TH & 2th April The inaugural Islander Fun Regatta for the VIPER 6.40 will be held on Fri 19th and Sat 20th April. If you are interested in having a go at sailing a VIPER 6.40 come along and try your hand! We will publish a full programme in our April issue as well as on our website and Facebook page asap. All enquiries should be sent to: simon@theislander.net ______________________________________ By Simon Relph
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FEATURE: VIPER 6.40 A WIND OF CHANGE IN PALMA