NEW ENSIGN CLASS BURGEE/FLAG

By Alex Kampf

The Ensign Class Association presents the “new” class burgee/flag. On our 40^th Anniversary we have a distinguishing design that will serve to promote class pride and be used as a starting flag, identified under RRS 2001-2004, part2, SecD, rule 26.

Although there has been talk of a class flag for years, Greg Holmes, Fleet 4, Providence R.I., suggested we get one to satisfy the new start sequence and help identify the Ensign Class, especially during multiple regatta starts. Jack Patterson, Fleet 70, Pentwater, Michigan provided the elegant design, incorporating our Ensign logo. Jack, who has admired the Ensign since 1963, when it sold for $3800, acquired his first Ensign in 1979, for a dollar. He has been instrumental in developing the Pentwater fleet and still feels the Ensign is one of the nicest boats to sail; roomy, stable and just the right amount of wood to dress up a sailboat. Congratulations to Jack Patterson, well done! Included here are Jack’s design considerations for the burgee/flag.

1.The burgee flag measures 221/2 inches, which reflects the Ensign hull length of 221/2 feet.

2.The burgee is red, white and blue because the Ensign is designed and built in the United States.

3.The top angled edge of the flag reflects the Ensign’s straight shear slanting aft.

4. The top angle of the flag’s swallowtail reflects the angle of the rudderpost as well as the forward edge of the cabin.

5. The swallowtail lower angle reflects the reverse transom, the lead edge, and the aft edge of the cockpit combing boards, as well as the aft edge of the winch pedestal

The Ensign burgee/start flag will be available for the 2002 season. Look for details on our website and in the next newsletter. Thanks to all who participated in our contest.