LATEST NEWS
The Flag is UP Early in Sweden
Stefan Bokfors S107 on Lake Ansjön in Sweden.
While we here in North America are stowing away sailboats for the season, in Sweden, the DNs are hitting the ice. October 30, 2023, kicked off the 2023-2024 season for class members Dideric Van Riemsdijk (S867) and Stefan Bokfors (S107). They found ice at Ansjön, a spectacular location situated 6 hours north of Stockholm. This year, October 30 marked the earliest start for Dideric and Stefan, giving them ample time on the ice for training before the Week 46 Regatta in Finland, which takes place November 17 – 19, 2023.
Important nutrition at the training table.
Bob Dill US3904: Eight Bells
The DN Community mourns with the family and friends of Bob Dill US3904, who passed away on October 28, 2023.
Bob served as IDNIYRA Class Secretary from 1988-1991 and Class Treasurer from 1988-1989. He has been nominated to the U.S. Sailing Hall of Fame.
Via Bob Schumacher, Bob’s DN road-warrior and land-yacht-speed-record colleague:
With much sadness I have to report that Bob Dill passed last night after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease. I am at a loss for words but Don Brush said it well.
‘A sad struggle for a unique person. He is, I am sure, in a better place now. He would not have wanted to be the person he had become. We all were better for knowing Bob. I don’t think I ever met a more inquisitive person with a passion for details. His passion for documentation assures his legacy will live on! It was an honor to know and have him as a friend.’ Don Brush
Bob Schumacher
Bob used his sharp engineering mind to quantify wind, ice, land, and speed in several articles. One of his most famous projects was designing and building the land sailing yacht IRON DUCK with his friend, Bob Schumacher. Together, they set a land-speed record.
Bob Dill has left a legacy of articles that have left a last impact on ice and land sailing. Below are some links to a selection of them and other articles about Bob.
Article’s About Bob Dill
National Sailing Hall of Fame Nominee
Bob Dill the Ice Man
Video: Iron Duck
Recognizing Bob Dill and the Iron Duck – Sailing Scuttlebutt
Bob Dill’s Articles
Iceboat Sailing Performance
Sailing Yacht Design for Maximum Speed
Lake Ice – Bob’s website with everything you need to know about ice.
List of Bob Dill Articles on IDNIYRA archived website
Bob Dill – From Vermont Sports
Gearing Up for the Season
Newspaper article c. 1938, source: Don Dallar Scrapbook
A package of Don Dallar’s US46 scrapbook copies arrived at my doorstep, courtesy of Robert Cummins US3433. In 1937, Don was one of the original volunteers who responded to the Detroit News’ call to help build a new type of iceboat called the DN 60, “a one-person boat with 60 square feet of sail.” You can read his article on the history of the DN here.
The DN iceboat, like many successful sailing classes, has modernized over the past 86 years, incorporating new materials for improved boat handling and competition while still maintaining the ability to be built at home.
One thing that has remained constant is getting your DN to the lake is still easy. Eighty-six years ago, just placing your DN on the roof of your car must have felt incredibly freeing (though we recommend detaching the plank from the hull), especially considering the large Stern-Steerers that demanded a group effort and planning for their trip to the lake.
We are 33 days away from the unofficial opening of the season, the Western Challenge in Minnesota. Whether you cartop or trailer your DN, we hope to see you there.
Car-topping and some mast-leaning in Sweden at the 2023 Grand Masters.
Mastering Deflection
As we approach Minnesota’s Western Challenge in 37 days, here’s a practical article on DN iceboat plank deflection recently forwarded to a new DN builder and sailor by Warren Nethercote KC3786.
John Jambock’s article was published in the 1991 DN Newsletter. Deflection is a critical factor in improving the performance of an iceboat, and it determines how well the boat handles on the frozen surface. John Jombock’s article provides valuable insights into the optimal thickness and materials for planks that can achieve the required stiffness.
DESIGNING DN RUNNER PLANKS FOR STIFFNESS by John Jombock US1513
If you’re interested in exploring more articles with technical and sailing tips, check out our archive from the original DN class website originally created by Paul Goodwin. There’s a wealth of knowledge waiting for you there. IDNIYRA Website Articles Archive
IDNIYRA Notice of Dues 2024
You are a crucial part of the world’s number-one ice sailing class. Your contributions are instrumental in sustaining this website, Runner Tracks, and the Yearbook. These contributions are essential for preserving your DN iceboat’s value and allowing you to participate in officer elections and class-related matters. As a member, you can take part in regattas at regional and continental levels. Thank you for supporting the IDNIYRA.
If you’d rather mail a check or have any questions about your membership, please contact Executive Secretary Deb Whitehorse treasurer.idniyra@gmail.com
DONATE TO THE IDNIYRA
Another way to support the class is to donate to the IDNIYRA. We keep membership dues reasonable to encourage participation. Your donation will help secure the future of the largest ice sailing fleet in the world. The IDNIYRA is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
Thank you for supporting the IDNIYRA.
IDNIYRA & IDNIYA EU 2023 Fall Ballot Results
The combined 2023 IDNIYRA & IDNIYRA EU ballot closed today. The two questions on the ballot passed and will become effective on May 31, 2024.
LINK TO RESULTS
Election Results for 2023 IDNIYRA & IDNIYRA EU Fall Ballot
Previous: Notice of Electronic Ballot for Specification Changes & EPIC Agreement Amendment
Started at: October 3, 2023
Finished at: October 17, 2023
Total IDNIYRA ballots cast: 60
Total IDNIYRA EU ballots cast: 46
106 of 406 ballots cast.
Option: 1. PROPOSAL TO REVISE SPECIFICATIONS, SECTION A: FUSELAGE; SECTION B: RUNNER PLANK
********************************************************************************************
Yes – I APPROVE: 91 votes 91.00%
No – I REJECT: 9 votes 9.00%
Yes – I APPROVE wins with 91.00% of the vote.
Votes tallied: 100
Abstentions: 6
Option: 2. PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE EPIC AGREEMENT ARTICLE XI, ENFORCEMENT OF THE SPECIFICATIONS.
************************************************************************************************
Yes – I APPROVE: 84 votes 83.17%
No – I REJECT: 17 votes 16.83%
Yes – I APPROVE wins with 83.17% of the vote.
Votes tallied: 101
Abstentions: 5
Support Your Local Iceboat Swap Meet
In the world of ice sailing, Swap Meets are a cherished tradition. These gatherings offer more than just buying and selling; they’re a place to connect with other sailors. Find your first iceboat or that missing part for your project. Beyond the gear, swap meets are where the ice sailing community bonds. Meet fellow sailors, share stories, and form lasting connections. Here’s the list, starting from west to east.
MINNESOTA
Minnesota Iceboat Swap Meet
Hosted by: Tim Carlson and Sailcrafters Loft and Rigging
Date: Saturday, November 4
Time: 9 AM – Noon
Location: 7450 Oxford Street St. Louis Park, MN 55426
The annual iceboat swap meet is a great opportunity to buy and sell used iceboat gear. Or, maybe, just spend time meeting local iceboaters and asking questions about our sport. Anyone interested in iceboating is encouraged to attend. Thank you Sailcrafters ( https://sailcrafters.com/) for supporting the local iceboat community. Sailcrafters is an official UK Sails dealer, bringing world-class designs and manufacturing to the Midwest. It is a full-service loft known for its complete rigging services and for making and repairing mooring, traveling and/or storage covers. Tim Carlson can be reached at (952) 540-7474.
WISCONSIN
Menekaunee Iceboat Picnic & Swap Meet
Date: Saturday, October 14, 2023
Time:
Location: Menekaunee Harbor Park, Ogden St, Marinette, WI 54143
Weather Permitting, complete Iceboats on exhibit. No charge to display or sell.
Buy, sell, upgrade or trade complete iceboats, parts. Upgrade your current rig. Enjoy the start of a new season, learn about iceboating. Everyone is welcome to attend. Commodore Jason Fifarek will be BBQ hamburgers and hotdogs. Food is free but this is a BYOB event, some water will be provided but you are encouraged to bring your own.
Wisconsin Iceboat Swap Meet – Hosted by the Green Lake Ice Yacht Club, Green Lake, WI
Date: Sunday, October 22, 2023
Time: 9 AM – Noon
Location: Town Square Community Center, 492 Hill St., Green Lake, WI
The Wisconsin Iceboat Swap Meet is the perfect place to check out iceboats and components for sale. The Iceboat Swap Meet is a chance to meet and learn from experienced iceboaters who are more than willing to share their insights into the sport.
More information
Delavan Yacht Club Swap Meet – Hosted by the Delavan Yacht Club
Date: Sunday, November 5, 2023
Time: 10 – 2
Location:1501 Cedar Point Dr, Delavan, WI 53115
MICHIGAN
Western Michigan Ice Yacht Club Swap Meet
Date: Saturday, November 4, 2023
Time: 9 – 1
Location: Richland Pub, 8253 N 32nd St, Richland, MI 49083
NEW ENGLAND
New England Ice Yachting Association Swap Meet & Lunch
Date: Sunday, November 19, 2023
Time: 10 AM
Location : Thompson Speedway Golf Course, 205 E Thompson Rd, Thompson, CT 06277
More information.
CANADA
Canadian Ice Force Swap Meet
Date: Saturday, October 14, 2023
Time: Noon – 4
Location: 470 Bay St. North, Hamilton, ON.
Buy, sell. Fast ice discussions. Burgers and beer. Bring your runners for sharpening. Let us know you are coming so that we have enough food. Reply to the Canadian Ice Force Facebook page or by email to Les at dldruiven@gmail.com. Park at the Leander Boat Club and walk up the path (about 50 meters).
Notice of Electronic Ballot for Specification Changes & EPIC Agreement Amendment
This is the announcement of a combined electronic ballot for members of IDNIYRA and IDNIYRA EU, although North American and European results will be available separately. There are two proposals on the ballot. Both proposals were approved for vote at the 2023 IDNIYRA Annual Governing Meeting. If you didn’t receive an electronic ballot, please check your spam folder first, and then contact secretary.idniyra@gmail.com
The election runs from October 3 – October 17, 2023.
1. PROPOSAL TO REVISE SPECIFICATIONS, SECTION A: FUSELAGE; SECTION B: RUNNER PLANK
Over the summer of 2022, the IDNIYRA Technical Committee held six online meetings to revise the wording of the Official IDNIYRA Specifications, specifically Section A (fuselage) and Section B (runner plank).
Class members in good standing are voting on the proposed changes that were published in the September 2022 Runner Tracks.
See the proposed changes here.
Their main goals were to
• Incorporate the Interpretations into Official Specifications.
• Rewrite for more user-friendly wording.
• Enrich each section with a measurement guide and measurement drawings.
• Consolidate fragmented sections.
• Eliminate loopholes and grey areas by giving more precise definitions.
• Maintain specifications.
IDNIYRA class members voted to bring the proposed changed to a class vote at the 2023 Annual Governing Meeting, held during the January 2023 World & North American Championship.
2. PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE EPIC AGREEMENT ARTICLE XI, ENFORCEMENT OF THE SPECIFICATIONS.
Amend EPIC Article XI 3. to read:
3. By an official ruling of the technical committee. Such official rulings shall prevail as supplements to the OFFICIAL SPECIFICATIONS unless and until voided by a simple majority of the membership. Proposals for such a vote will be initiated in the same way a Specification Change Proposal is made, except that a ruling that is voided will be voided immediately after a vote that overturns it.
Background: This proposal was approved for ballot at the 2023 IDNIYRA Annual Governing Meeting. Refer to the 2023 AGM minutes in February 2023 Runner Tracks for more information.
New Central Region Commodore & Regatta Schedule
Central Region Commodore Peter Johanson US5633 on Fort Peck Reservoir, Fort Peck, Montana, March 2020 PHOTO: gretchendorian.com
Join us in welcoming Peter Johanson US5633, as the new Central Region Commodore. (See a list of all Regional Commodores here.) Peter is the go-to contact for iceboating in Michigan or Ohio. He’s set the dates for the 2023 and 2024 Central Region regattas. In addition, the schedule for the North American and European DN regatta season is set, so it’s time to mark your calendar. You can always find the schedule on the Regatta Information page of this website. As always, except for the World, North American, and European Championships, regatta dates are dependent upon conditions and may change.
2023-2024 DN REGATTA SCHEDULE
- 2023 WESTERN CHALLENGE – A non-ranking, unsanctioned, no-scoring fun regatta
Dates: December 1 – 3, 2023
Location: Best ice in Minnesota
Information: This website or iceboating.net - 2023 CENTRAL REGION CHAMPIONSHIP
Date: December 2023, first available ice following the Western Challenge.
Location: Michigan or Ohio
Information: This website - 2024 WESTERN REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Dates: January 6-7, 2024
Location: MN, WI, IA, IL, UP of MI, or IN
Information: This website - 2024 SENIOR SHUFFLE – A non-ranking, unsanctioned, fun regatta in the manner of the EU Grand Master Regatta. More information.
Dates: January 8 – 10, three days after Western Region Championship
Location: Same location as Western Region Championship
Information: This website, iceboat.org - 2024 CENTRAL REGION CHAMPIONSHIP
Date: January 13 – 14, 2024
Location: Best ice in Michigan or Ohio, TBA
Information: This website - 2024 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION & 2024 EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP
Continental Ranking Regattas
Date: February 3 – 10, 2024
Host: Lithuania
Location: Best ice in Europe
Information: idniyra.eu - 2024 DN & ICE OPTIMIST JUNIOR WORLD & EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP
Date: February 3 – 10, 2024 – In conjunction with the World & European Championship
Host: Lithuania
Location: Best ice in Europe
Information: idniyra.eu - 2024 NORTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIP
A Continental Ranking Regatta
Date: February 25 – March 2, 2024
Host: Eastern Lakes Region
Information: This website
Contact information: Deb Whitehorse - GRAND MASTERS CHAMPIONSHIP
Date: February 27 – February 29, 2024
Host: Finland
Location: Best ice in Finland or Sweden
Information: DN Finland - EASTERN LAKES CHAMPIONSHIP
Date: TBA
Location: Best ice in the Eastern Region (see Regions map, it’s a big area)
Information: This website, the NEIYA - CANADIAN CHAMPIONSHIP
Date: TBA
Location: Best ice in Canada
Information: This website - NEW ENGLAND CHAMPIONSHIP
Date: TBA
Location: Best ice in New England
Information: NEIYA
Runner Tracks Newsletter September 2023
This issue offers insights from Robert Cummins US3433 on efficiently organizing and trailering your DN. Whether you are an experienced ice boater or a newcomer, Runner Tracks is the ultimate resource for everything related to ice boating. Check out the complete online library here.
IN THIS ISSUE
- The Perfect DN Trailer by Robert Cummins
- DN Quick Build by Deb Whitehorse with Commentary by Warren Nethercote
- Traveling Trophy by Julie Jankowski
Get this issue in a full color soft cover book for $20.
Expressing Gratitude
After the 2023 IDNIYRA World Championship, a group of participants took up a collection to recognize PRO Pat Heppert’s exceptional dedication. Daniel Hearn selected action shots of Pat, captured by Cathy Firmbach, and commissioned a company to create an awe-inspiring 3D photo montage.
Yesterday, Pat was presented with his gift at Daniel’s shop, where he joined a gathering of fellow ice sailors busy preparing Nite masts. During his visit, he also took the chance to organize the DN Western Region equipment, a significant portion of which had been generously contributed by retired PRO Dan Heaney. Pat will join us again for the North American Championship on February 25 – March 2, 2024.
Current Newsletter
DN VIDEOS
iceboat.org
- April 19, 2024: Renegade in MI April 19, 2024
Minnesota Ice Sailing Association
- NW Regatta February 25, 2024
Chickawaukie Ice Boat Club
- MEETING TIME April 19, 2024
New England Ice Yacht Association
- Fall Meeting In Maine April 20, 2024