Optimists are designed for children
They are safe and straightforward for beginners to use and technically challenging for the experienced sailors.
Single-handed is best
They didn't learn to ride a bike on a tandem
Over 150,000 kids in over 100 countries have got to be right
The Optimist was designed in 1947 and celebrates its Diamond Anniversary in 2007.
The Optimist has been designated International Status by ISAF. (the world organising body for sailing) It's an RYA "pathway" class - that means it's recognized as developing technical, physical and racing skills necessary to succeed at Youth and Olympic level.
Over 70% of the sailors at the last Olympics learned to race in an Optimist.

Optimist Facts

2.31 metres long, 1.13 metres wide, weighs 35kg
Easily transported on top of any car
Second hand prices start at a few hundred pounds - and Optimists hold their value