The Elliott 6m will make its Olympic debut at London 2012 after women's match racing was ratified as the newest Olympic Class in November 2008.

Designed by New Zealander Greg Elliott, the Olympic boat is a modified version of the Elliott previously used at World match racing events.

The rig and sail area has been reduced from the original Elliott 6m to allow Sailing in a greater wind range with max crew weight of 205kg. The fixed keel has been changed to allow for lifting or removal.

The build of the first eight of the new Elliott 6m designs were completed at McConaghy boats in China and they will make their ISAF Sailing World Cup debut at Kiel in June 2009 before arriving on British soil for September's Skandia Sail for Gold regatta.

SPECIFICATIONS

Beam Length: 2.35m (7 ft 81/2 in)

Draught Length: 1.66m (5Ft 5in)

Mainsail Area: 15.9m2

Headsail Area: 7.7m2

Spinnaker Area: 28m2

Type: Keelboat

Crew: 3 (max weight 205kgs)

Designer: Greg Elliott

Year: 2000 (Modified 2008)