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The

Association of Model Barge Owners

(AMBO)

Incorporating

The Model Thames Sailing Barge Championships

Class Specification

Barge Classes 

Bowsprit                  1/24^th scale with under 45” hull length 

Staysail                    1/24^th scale with under 45” hull length 

Coastal                    1/24^th Scale with a hull length over 45” and under 50” – Beam and depth of side should reflect the prototype dimensions of these larger vessels. 

30”                              Approx. 1/35^th – 1/40^th scale with a hull length under 30”, a class originally based on the HFM KATHLEEN and including the Richard Webb KITTY semi-scale model but now encompassing all small barges. 

12” & 6”                   Fun classes with the appropriate hull length in either Bowsprit, Staysail or Coastal configuration. 

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Scale Fidelity         Due to the lack of accurate full size barge plans and thus model plans to work from, the models should as accurately as possible represent the hull form, scale detail, sail plan and rigging of full-size Barges. 

                                    Ideally the mast and spars should reflect the construction material of the prototype. (Metal or wood) 

                                    The intention is that the races are sailed by scale models of Thames and Medway Sailing Barges. 

                                    It is appreciated though that we all have differing abilities and facilities for modelling, and that some boats will be raced during the ‘fitting out’ stage of their life. 

Sails                          It is preferred that the sails are of a natural fibre (Cotton, linen etc) or a natural/man made mix (Polycotton for example) rather than a pure man made fibre (Nylon or similar) – giving a more natural and scale look to the models. 

                                    The sails should be loose footed as in the full size and the number of sails radio controlled is up to the individual skippers. 

Keels                         An area of contention in some quarters – but up to   the individual skipper’s preference for length/ area/weight (and depending on the depth of the venues water!) 

Radio Control       No restriction on the number of channels used.

                                    27 Mhz or 40 Mhz within the JRCUC prescribed bands. 

Identification         It would help the Officer of the Day if the Barges are uniquely identifiable by colour, Bob or Topsail markings.

 Back to MTSBC Racing Info Page

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