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| 4. The Finnster |
Throughout the world there is a dedicated group of the finest sailors in the world known as 'Finnsters'. They take pride in their class, their ability, their stamina, and their competitive spirit. They are trying to be the 'best' and want the tough competition in the Finn Class. There are classes which are sailed by many more people but there are no classes which have more devoted sailors.
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A Finn sailor is self reliant, in good physical condition, and takes pride in himself. But he is the first one to help a newcomer and eager to discuss new ideas with other Finn sailors. There is a common bond of friendship between Finn sailors from all over the world that is not normally seen in other classes. In what other class do you see a top U.S. sailor 'arm wrestling' with the Russians for amusement during a regatta?
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The Finn Class is not like most other classes. They do not want the most people sailing but they do want the 'best' people sailing. In some areas, you will find a Finn fleet racing regularly but in many other areas, you will find only one or two Finns and the Finn sailors travel great distances to get to regattas where they find the competition that is lacking locally.
You will hear people say that 'Finn sailing is too physical and demands too much strength'. But Finn sailing is like track and field events or other athletic sports. It demands conditioning, strength, coordination, and mental alertness. That is why the 'Finnster' is devoted to the Finn Class.
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