The International Class sloop was created in 1936 by acclaimed Norwegian designer at the behest of Cornelius Shields, who was looking to create a new one-design class to be sailed in Larchmont and Bermuda, and in the Amorita Cup, team races between those sailors. The boat that Shields and Aas created is was fashioned using the International Rule. It is a one-design variation of the 6m class and a smaller cousin of the 12m class sloops that contested for the Americas Cup between 1958 and 1985.  These are thoroughbred racers, with a classic full keel and simple sail plan. Surprisingly sensitive and perfectly balanced, the International rewards attentive teams with surprising power, and agility.   The boats were first raced in 1937, and immediately proved successful. 

Fleets were quickly initiated in Marblehead, Northeast Harbor, followed by fleets in the UK (Cowes) and Norway (Fredrickstad).  The boat, a graceful 33′ open cockpit sloop, has stood the test of time.  Strict one-design rules — including a carefully crafted sail purchase plan — created by Shields, and carefully stewarded by the class over the years, ensure that the boats are equally matched. The racing is truly a test of teams, not equipment. Shields is famous for saying that he was not a fan of “checkbook” sailing, and the class has acted consistently over the years to keep the costs of campaigning the boat low. 

Here in Marblehead, the boats have been races continuously since 1938, and one of our local boats, POMPANO, #45, has been raced here every season since the Marblehead Fleet was founded.