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Sailboats in 2012 Summer Olympics

By , About.com Guide

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Men’s One-Person Dinghy - Laser
Men's Laser

Nick Wilson/Getty Images

The Laser is a one-person, single-sail centerboard planing sailboat that is fast and maneuverable. Designed by Bruce Kirby and produced since 1970, Lasers are among the most popular sailboats around the world. The Laser does not have a trapeze for hiking out but has toe straps to make it easier to move far out to counteract the boat’s heeling.

Specs

Length overall: 4.23 m
Beam: 1.37 m
Displacement: 59 kg
Sail area: 7.06 sq m

Shown in photo: Australian Michael Blackburn in the 2000 Olympics.

Learn more about the Laser sailboat here.

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