5.5 Metre (keelboat)

The International 5.5 meter class ( 5.5m IC, International 5.5 Metre Class ( 5.5 mR) ) is a construction class ( meter class ) of sailboats.

The birth of the 5.5 -meter class is closely related to the history of the International Sailing Federation (ISAF, previously International Yacht Racing Union - ISAF ) and the sport of sailing in the Olympics. In 1908, the first time racing yachts took part of the meter class at the Olympic Games. Initially, these included large 12mR, but were gradually reduced the yacht sizes to make sailing more popular. For example, were the 6mR 1908, the smallest boats in the 1948 Olympic Games, however, already the largest.

After the Second World War, 6 ( 6mR ) proved to be too expensive. The cost of acquisition and maintenance were no longer acceptable. The next step was therefore to find a more economical boat as a successor to the 6mR yachts. Charles E. Nicholson, a leading yacht designers of his time, that developed in 1948 a new formula and in winter 1948/49, was the first prototype, THE DEB built. The new yacht was well received and in October the new formula has been confirmed by the Iryu. 1952 finally the 5.5mR were already at the Olympic Games in Helsinki this. Germany was represented in 1952 and 1956 at the Olympic Games by Hans Lubinus and his crew.

Similar reasons but, like the ones that led to the resignation of 6mR from the Olympic program, eventually overtook the 5.5mR: They were replaced by the then more modern Soling.

All new materials have found its way in both the shipbuilding sector, as well as in sail area: carbon masts, high-tech sails such as laminate sails are not uncommon. Nevertheless, repeatedly demonstrates the ingenious design of the Nicholson'schen formula: With many big events keep even old boats with the new with.