Dear Friends,

It is my pleasure to invite you, on behalf of the Finnish 8mR Association, to sail the next summer in Helsinki. We are working very hard to break the previous record of 39 yachts at the 2002 Worlds in Helsinki.

Looking further back, in 1978, some key decisions were made in Helsinki that still affect us. The International Eight Meter As- sociation IEMA was established in the city on the 21st of July 1978. At the founding meeting a decision was made to establish a current list of eight meter yachts in Europe and North America. The aim was to create a worldwide inventory of eights, and an ambition to de- velop international racing events between the existing yachts. Also, the task of re-instating international status was given to Malcolm MacGregor. W ithout the vision of the founding members Joni Hertell, Eugene van Voorhis and Per Wermelin, we would not be where we are today. Due to their commitment and work, the international status of the class was re-established a few years later. In addi- tion, as a result of the persistent work of Fred

Meyer and John Lammerts van Bueren over the past 17 years, we pride ourselves on our worldwide register of the eight meter yachts. Fourteen countries were represented in the Worlds in 2011 in Flensburg. Without the dedicated work of these gentlemen and many others, our class would not flourish as it does today. The amazing bond between eight meter owners is difficult to find elsewhere. The passion for the beauty and tradition of our yachts, the frustration of maintenance and the sheer joy of sailing brings us together from all over the word. Understanding the history of our yachts and the class makes us appreciate the sport even more and reminds us of our limited tenure. See you in Helsinki!

We will make the World Championship 2013 an unforgettable event.

Julia Ormio

President of the Finnish 8mR Association Owner of 8 metre S/Y Lara
Tel. +358 50 5689 811
julia@ormio.fi