14 February 2026
Dear National Secretaries,
As you know, the AGM 2025 approved the use of GPS devices and World Sailing has now approved our Class Rule Changes with an effective date of ist April 2026.
We are now pleased to inform you of an exciting development, already discussed at our AGM: a new partnership between the International Dragon Association (IDA) and Vakaros, developers and providers of advanced race management tools.
We would specifically like to thank Jeroen Leenen, UAE Dragon Association, who generously agreed to support the International Dragon Association with the acquisition of a complete Vakaros RaceSense kit, which will be used to equip class-managed events going forward. This ensures a consistent and high standard of race operations at all major regattas.
From April 1st, 2026, RaceSense by Vakaros will be implemented across all major class events, beginning at the Grand Prix in San Remo (April 15–18). It’s important to note that inorder to participate in any event where the system is in use, each boat must either rent or purchase an Atlas 2 device.
If sailors choose they can opt to rent a device. For the first event in Dragon GP San Remo sailors can book their rental devices at this link:
Rentals need to be reserved at least 14 days before the event.
Atlas 2 devices can be purchased either through Vakaros directly or through their preferred dealer,
This technology has already proven its effectiveness in delivering cleaner, more accurate starts and will play a pivotal role in elevating the level of race management throughout the season, including at:
- The 2026 European Championship in Helsinki
- The 2027 World Championship in Hong Kong, which may become our class’s largest yet
- Other Grand Prix events throughout 2026
Vakaros Atlas 2 owners / users must purchase from Vakaros an Annual RaceSense Pass or Monthly RaceSense Pass, without which the unit will not function in RaceSense mode.
Exclusive Offer for Dragon Sailors and Fleets on RaceSense Pass
In recognition of this milestone, Vakaros has generously extended the following offer exclusively to Dragon sailors:
- 25% Discount on the Annual RaceSense Pass for a 30-day period starting from March 1st, 2026
We ask you to share this offer with your national fleets and want to thank each of you for your dedication to our class and your support in helping introduce this evolution in Dragon racing.
Should you have any questions, or require any support to inform your national members, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Tim Pearson
Secretary | International Dragon Association
44 Orpen Green | Blackrock | County Dublin | Ireland | A94 A8P9
M: +353 872 480 361 |
E: timothympearson@gmail.com| W: www.internationaldragonsailing.net