The 470 was designed in 1963 by Frenchman André Cornu, as a modern fibreglass planing dinghy. It is a quick, responsive, exciting boat with a PY (Portsmouth Yardstick handicap number) of 973 that gives both helm and crew a challenging and, frequently, a wet ride. It is raced at the Olympics, and in 2004 both Spanish women and British men were in the medals. The 470 is equipped with spinnaker and trapeze, which makes sailing a real test of teamwork

UK class association www.arrowsails.co.uk/gbr470/