ocs yacht racing

• Yachting World
• Digital Edition

5 tips: OCS (on course side) or over the line at the start – what should you do?

• August 12, 2015

An OCS can ruin your series as much as your day, but it can also be hard to avoid. Jonty Sherwill asks World Match Racing champion Ian Williams how to reduce loss – or even gain advantage

Fleet start, bow 12 over. Photo Rick Tomlinson

Pundits at any local sailing club say you’re not trying hard enough if you don’t stray over the line once in a while. So, never mind honing your starting skills – you also need to think about recovery if you find yourself OCS.

If it’s a restart after a general recall, then it’s vital to keep a sharp eye on the flags at the committee boat. Penalties and tactics will vary depending on what preparatory flag is being flown: ‘P’, I’, ‘Z’, ‘Z’ with ‘I’ or the one that commands most respect, Black.

It’s a risky strategy to rely on being hidden in a bulge at midpoint on the starting line, particularly if the ‘I’ flag is flying. This is because the ‘round-the-ends’ rule will be in force for those boats OCS in the final minute of the sequence and it could be a two-minute sail or more to reach either end of the line, and without rights over the other boats that are starting correctly.

Notwithstanding a Black flag, when only one sound signal is made at the start, if boats are OCS there will be at least two sound signals and if there are individual recalls the ‘X’ flag will be flying. That’s the moment to asking hard questions: was it us; do we go back; will the ‘X’ come down or do we wait to see the results?

A lot can go wrong for other boats during a race, so if you do return to clear the line, keeping a cool head and knowing which side of the first beat is favoured could see you back in the hunt sooner than you think.

As those pundits at the club will also tell you, a race is never over till it’s over and you’ve reached the finish line.

1. Signals, speed and set-up

Agree what signals the bowman will use and especially whether he or she is calling distance sailing or distance perpendicular to the start line (see our 5 tips: bowman signals ); most boats use perpendicular distance.

In addition, know how long it takes to sail one length closer to the line by timing it on a practice run. I usually time six to ten lengths to improve accuracy; depending on wind strength, current and start line bias, this can vary a lot.

For your final approach, consider conditions when positioning against the fleet. In light airs it is fatal to drop out of the front row as you will have no wind to build up speed. In stronger winds it is the boats that push the line too early that are in most danger because it is much harder to reach along the line at the last moment.

2. Risk and GPS

Discuss with the bowman before the start how hard you want to push the line. If you are a fast boat in the fleet and there is no clearly favoured side on the beat, you can afford to hold back a little and keep the risk down. If not and you must go left, it may be worth pushing things a little harder.

GPS data is now very accurate, so provided you have accurately pinged the line (and it has not moved), you should be able to trust it to tell you how far from the line you are (particularly useful on very long start lines such as at Cowes Week).

But be wary of ‘time to the line’ or ‘time to burn’ information – unless you have your polars and calibration very well set up this information can be misleading.

3. Baling out

Sometimes, seconds before the start, you will know you’re in a bad position and are not going to get a good start however hard you fight for your gap. If you call it early enough, you can often make room to tack or duck back through the fleet and be away on port only a few lengths behind the leaders.

But if you continue to fight, start second row or find yourself OCS and are then blocked from tacking, you are already looking at a big deficit, with no good options for clear air.

If you are OCS, remember you retain your rights until you are heading back, so (subject to RRS 16) you may be entitled to luff the boat to windward in order to make space to return. You won’t make many friends doing this, mind you!

4. Marginal calls

If you think you are OCS, the sooner you decide to go back the better. If the race committee is calling OCS boats on the VHF, ensure the radio is to hand and that somebody is listening straight after the start.

If OCS boats are not being announced, then somebody on board will need to make the call – ensure you have a clear process for this before you start, so a decision can be made quickly.

The final call is probably best made by the skipper or tactician, based on the most reliable information – that is likely to come from the bowman on a larger yacht. On dayboats and sportsboats, the helmsman will usually make the call based on the chat in the final 20 seconds of the start sequence.

5. The aftermath

Although being disqualified is frustrating, sailing is a team game, so learn from it and bounce back – you may be able to discard that result anyway.

But be attentive if there is a general recall after a Black-flag start; listen to the VHF and/or look at the noticeboard on the committee boat for your sail number because if you were OCS under a Black flag (and the race was not postponed or abandoned before the start signal) you are excluded from further restarts.

If you do join in, your OCS will be counted in your overall series score. It is possible to request redress for being OCS, but unless you are confident there is clear video evidence or you have credible witnesses from other boats it will be a waste of social time for you and the jury.

Ian Williams is current and four-times ISAF match racing world champion and the first European to hold multiple match racing world titles; a nine-times winner on the World Match Racing Tour, he has 27 podium finishes. Ian is also well-known as a tactician on the pro big-boat circuit.

RACING RULES

Every sport has its own set of rules. In sailing, they're built to clarify who has "right-of-way" in different scenarios, and they are used strategically in a Match Race to help gain the upper hand. Let’s see below a few of the basics to help you keep up when the penalty calls start flying!

RACE COURSE

The Race Course is about 1.7nm long (about 3km) and between 0.5nm and 0.8nm (0.9km to 1.5km) wide, with boundaries on all sides that the boats must stay within. It's called a windward-leeward course, named after the orientation of the course directly into the wind and away from the wind. From the start, the yachts race directly upwind – to windward, round the 1st mark then downwind, or to leeward. Rinse and repeat. At three minutes to the start, the boats "enter" – sailing from above and outside the start line, and from opposite ends. This is the beginning of the "pre-start". The teams take turns over which side they enter from, as the boat coming in from the right-hand side has the advantage – with the right-of-way.

The Race Course is about 1.7nm long (about 3km) and between 0.5nm and 0.8nm (0.9km to 1.5km) wide, with boundaries on all sides that the boats must stay within.

It's called a windward-leeward course, named after the orientation of the course directly into the wind and away from the wind. From the start, the yachts race directly upwind – to windward, round the 1st mark then downwind, or to leeward. Rinse and repeat.

At three minutes to the start, the boats "enter" – sailing from above and outside the start line, and from opposite ends. This is the beginning of the "pre-start". The teams take turns over which side they enter from, as the boat coming in from the right-hand side has the advantage – with the right-of-way.

Because the AC75s travel so quickly, the boat coming in from the left-hand, or port, side enters first, 10-seconds before their opponent. This is to help reduce the risk of collision by coming in at the same time.

The goal is to time your run to the start line exactly to the second: When the countdown reaches zero, and the race is on.

Arrive too early, and you've blown it. In sailing terms, this is an "OCS". If you are "on-course side" at the time of the start, it means you've jumped the gun. The umpires will send a start penalty immediately, and you'll have to slow down to get behind your opponent, before getting racing again.

Once underway, the boats race upwind, constrained by boundaries on both sides of the course – step outside of any of those and it's another penalty.

Once at the top of the course, it's decision time, which way around the "top-gate". There are two separate marks – you just have to pass one from the inside, before heading off back downwind from where they've come. Once back at the "bottom gate", the boats will have completed their first "lap". Once there, the drill is exactly the same - choose one mark to go around before headed back-up upwind.

The Race Director determines the number of laps the boats will sail, based on how much wind there is, and therefore how long it will take to complete a race. On the final lap, headed downwind, the only difference is instead of a downwind gate the yachts cross the start/finish line to complete the match.

PENALTY RULE

Break a rule, and your opponent will protest. If the umpires agree, you'll be given a penalty. In this America's Cup that means you have to put the brakes on. Slow down and slide back, until you're 50metres behind your competitor, and wait until the umpires tell you you're good to accelerate again – and the match is in full motion once more.

ON OPPOSITE TACKS (port/starboard)

The main rule to know is what happens when boats are on a collision course. Take this case for example, when the boats are approaching on opposite tacks: If they hold their course, they're going to collide. So who has right of way? The answer is the yellow boat... Yellow has the wind coming across the right-hand side – making it the "starboard" boat. The blue boat has the wind coming across the left side of the yacht, making it the "port" boat. Starboard has rights over port.

The main rule to know is what happens when boats are on a collision course. Take this case for example, when the boats are approaching on opposite tacks: If they hold their course, they're going to collide. So who has right of way? The answer is the yellow boat... Yellow has the wind coming across the right-hand side – making it the "starboard" boat. The blue boat has the wind coming across the left side of the yacht, making it the "port" boat. Starboard has rights over port. This means, in this situation, the yellow boat has all the power, and can hold its course – whilst the blue boat has to get out of the way. Blue can either change course to pass behind or by tacking underneath. Both manoeuvres costs them time and puts them into the turbulent air of the yellow boat. This applies whenever boats meet like this, either upwind or downwind.

There is only one exception to, which applies when the boats approach a boundary. You can't force a boat off the Race Course. When a boat is within 90-metres of the boundary – about 5-boat lengths – it gains the right of way and the right to tack or gybe.

Another key rule is when the boats are going in the same direction, but they're not overlapped. In this case, the boat behind has to keep clear of the boat ahead. However, being in front doesn’t always mean you are leading. If the yellow boat gets its bow across the stern of the blue boat in front, it now has right of way. They call that an "overlap". When this happens, yellow, has all the power. Blue, has to get out of the way.

Another key rule is when the boats are going in the same direction, but they're not overlapped. In this case, the boat behind has to keep clear of the boat ahead.

However, being in front doesn’t always mean you are leading. If the yellow boat gets its bow across the stern of the blue boat in front, it now has right of way. They call that an "overlap". When this happens, yellow, has all the power. Blue, has to get out of the way.

TACK AND PIN

A classic match racing move is the Tack and Pin, one boat crosses the bow of their opponent and then immediately tack on top of them, in this case yellow has done so and if blue doesn’t react immediately they become trapped unable to manoeuvre until their opponent does so first. Done properly you have complete control of the race course and dictate your opponent’s next move.

ROUNDING MARKS

This rule applies when the boats enter an imaginary circle 70-metres from the mark. With the race under way, both boats have to go around marks at the top and bottom of the course, when the boats choose opposite marks it's plain sailing. But it gets slightly more complicated when they're neck and neck and choose the same mark. In this case, blue is the clear leader, yellow is a little way behind. There's no overlap, so no real problem. Blue has the right of way and yellow has to allow blue to go around the mark unobstructed. But let's hit the rewind button, and imagine that the competition was a lot closer, and yellow has its bow across blue's stern. In this case, yellow has control, and blue can do nothing but give them the right of way and let them go around the mark at their will.

The Ultimate Guide to Yacht Racing Rules and Regulations

• by yachtman
• September 6, 2023 August 26, 2023

Yacht racing is an exciting sport! It requires skill, accuracy, and knowledge of rules . These regulations guarantee fair play and safety. To really appreciate the activity, you must understand the regulations.

At first, navigating the rules may seem intimidating. But breaking them down into chunks makes it easier. One important point is the hierarchy between boats. It shows which boat should give way in different situations.

It’s also important to know the race signals. They communicate crucial info, such as race starts and course changes. Participants and spectators need to know these.

Stay updated on any rule changes or amendments issued by World Sailing . They refine existing regulations and add new ones to improve the sport. Knowing the latest rules will give you confidence.

Finally, read case studies of past incidents/disputes during yacht races. This way you can learn from mistakes and be ready for unexpected situations.

Understanding the Basic Rules of Yacht Racing

Understanding the Fundamental Regulations of Yacht Racing

Yacht racing involves a set of basic rules and regulations that govern the competition. These rules are essential for ensuring fair play and safety on the water. To help you understand the fundamental regulations of yacht racing, here is a concise 5-step guide:

• Start Line Procedure: Before the race begins, all yachts must line up at the designated starting line. This line is typically marked by buoys or flags, and competitors must position themselves according to the rules specified by the race committee.
• Right of Way: Yacht racing follows a set of right-of-way rules that determine which yacht has precedence in certain situations. For example, a yacht on a starboard tack (wind coming from the right side) usually has right of way over a yacht on a port tack (wind coming from the left side).
• Mark Roundings: Yacht courses often include marks, such as buoys or flags, that competitors must round during the race. The rules specify how yachts should approach and pass these marks to ensure fair competition and prevent collisions.
• Protests and Penalties: If a competitor believes that another yacht has violated the rules, they can file a protest with the race committee. The committee will then investigate the incident and may impose penalties on the offending yacht if the protest is upheld.
• Finishing Line: The race concludes at the finishing line, which is typically marked by buoys or flags. Yachts must pass this line in the correct direction and often have to radio or signal their finish time to the race committee.

These steps outline the key elements of understanding the fundamental regulations of yacht racing. It’s important to familiarize yourself with these rules to ensure a safe and fair competition.

Pro Tip: Before participating in a yacht race, take the time to thoroughly study and understand the specific rules and regulations for that event. This will help you navigate the race effectively and avoid unnecessary penalties.

Get ready to navigate through a sea of confusing jargon as we dive into the essential terminology of yacht racing – it’s like learning a new language, but with more wind in your sails.

Essential Terminology in Yacht Racing

Yacht racing requires a unique language to be mastered by all sailors. Knowing these terms is essential for successful communication and cooperation during races.

Check out some of the key vocab words used in yacht racing:

Plus, other crucial terms like “luffing” (sail fluttering due to lack of wind), “tiller” (lever for steering boat) and “hull speed” (maximum speed a boat can reach in water).

Pro Tip: Get to know these essential yacht racing terms to up your enjoyment of this exciting sport!

Key Rules and Regulations for Yacht Racing

Yacht Racing: A Comprehensive Guide to Rules and Regulations

The rules and regulations governing yacht racing are crucial for ensuring fair and competitive events. Understanding these guidelines is essential for both participants and organizers to guarantee a level playing field and maintain the integrity of the sport. Below, we have compiled a table highlighting key rules and regulations for yacht racing in an easily accessible format.

Key Rules and Regulations for Yacht Racing:

These rules and regulations provide a framework that allows for fair competition and keeps participants safe. However, it is important to note that each race may have additional guidelines specific to the event or location, and participants should familiarize themselves with these unique details.

One such incident in the world of yacht racing involved a team that, due to a technical malfunction, found themselves adrift just moments after the race had begun. With quick thinking and teamwork, they managed to rectify the issue, rejoin the race, and ultimately finished in an impressive third place. This story illustrates the resilience and determination required in yacht racing, where unforeseen challenges can arise at any moment.

Yacht racing rules and regulations are comprehensive and necessary for maintaining fairness and safety. By adhering to these guidelines and being prepared for unexpected circumstances, participants can fully engage in the thrilling and competitive world of yacht racing.

Navigating through the racing course is like playing chess, except the pieces are yachts and the stakes are higher – imagine the drama when someone accidentally knocks over the queen!

Racing Course and Markings

Ahoy, mateys! Hop on board for a wild race on the high seas! It’s time to learn about the racing course : a carefully crafted area for a thrilling competition . Keep your eyes peeled for the start line – it marks the beginning of the race. Then, look out for the turn marks ; these designated points show where sailors must change direction. Finally, the finish line indicates the end of the race.

If ye want to be the best sailor, ye must understand these course and marking details. It’s essential for a successful yacht racing experience, so don’t miss out! Time to set sail and make your mark in the world of yacht racing.

Right of Way and Collision Avoidance

In yacht racing, we must pay close attention to the right of way and collision avoidance. Following specific rules and regulations is key to ensuring a fair race and preventing accidents.

Let’s look at the key rules related to right of way and collision avoidance in yacht racing:

These rules are just the beginning of the comprehensive regulations. Now, let’s look at a unique detail. In some cases, when two yachts on different tacks approach a mark, they may have equal rights. It’s important for skippers to communicate and coordinate to avoid possible collisions.

To show the importance of following these rules, here’s a story. During a competitive race, two yachts were nearing a turning point. The skipper of one boat did not yield the right of way, which violated rule number 10. Both boats were damaged and their chances of winning were ruined. This serves as a reminder that even small errors can have big consequences in yacht racing.

Starting and Finishing Procedures

Before the yacht race, boats must gather in the starting area. Skippers must steer clear of any collisions or rule-breaking.

Next comes the starting sequence – with flags or sound signals showing the time until the race starts. Skippers must pay close attention to them.

Once the final signal is given, the yachts race across the start line. Skippers must judge their entry properly to get an advantage and stay within the racing rules.

At the end of the race, the finish line is reached. Skippers should navigate and strategize here to cross it fast while following regulations.

Each race may have different start and finish procedures. Participants must read instructions from race organizers to stick to all rules.

The America’s Cup is one of the oldest sailing competitions. It began in 1851 around the Isle of Wight. It’s a big international event now, with teams competing every few years for the trophy.

Safety Guidelines for Yacht Racing

Safety Measures for Yacht Racing

Yacht racing events prioritize the safety of participants to prevent accidents and mishaps. Here are essential safety guidelines for yacht racing:

• Adhere to proper safety equipment regulations, including life jackets and distress signaling devices.
• Ensure all crew members are familiar with emergency procedures and know the location of safety equipment on the yacht.
• Maintain clear communication channels, using appropriate radio frequencies or signals during the race.
• Regularly inspect and maintain all equipment on board to ensure it is in proper working condition.
• Monitor weather conditions and take necessary precautions, such as altering course or seeking shelter in case of inclement weather.
• Adhere to collision-avoidance rules, maintaining a safe distance from other yachts and objects in the water.

It is important to stay up to date with the latest safety guidelines and regulations in the yacht racing community to ensure the well-being of all participants.

Yacht Racing Safety History:

Throughout the history of yacht racing, safety measures have evolved to enhance participant protection. Collaborations with maritime organizations and advances in technology have led to the development of comprehensive safety regulations and equipment. The efforts have significantly reduced the number of accidents and increased the safety of yacht racing as a sport.

Yacht racing may be a high-stakes sport, but remember, not everyone can pull off the bold fashion statement that is a life jacket.

Personal Safety Equipment

To ensure success in yacht races, it’s important to prioritize safety! All sailors should wear a well-fitted life jacket at all times to provide buoyancy aid. Personal locator beacons transmit distress signals if someone falls overboard. A harness with a tether will keep sailors attached to the boat. Protective clothing, such as gloves, boots and waterproof gear, guards against hypothermia and injuries. Reliable communication devices are necessary for crew members to stay in touch. Also, inspect all safety equipment regularly.

To further enhance safety, organizers can do regular safety drills. Employing support vessels is key for immediate response. Establishing clear communication protocols allows for effective coordination. By following these suggestions, yacht racers can reduce risks and maximize safety levels. Safety equipment and measures are essential elements for successful yacht races!

Safety Precautions on the Water

Yacht racing can be thrilling – but don’t forget to stay safe! Here are some essential tips:

• Always wear a life jacket : No matter how experienced you are, you can never be too careful.
• Check weather conditions: Sudden storms or high winds can make racing conditions dangerous.
• Create a communication plan: Make sure everyone in your crew is informed of any hazards or changes in course.

Plus, don’t forget to research local rules and regulations. Safety should always come first! So, gear up and get ready for a thrilling experience on the water. Enjoy the fun and camaraderie of yacht racing – just remember to stay safe!

Common Penalties and Protest Procedures

Yacht racing penalties and protest procedures involve various rules and regulations that must be followed. To ensure fair competition and resolve any disputes, there are consequences for violations. Here is a breakdown of the common penalties and the procedures for lodging a protest:

It’s important to note that each yacht race may have its specific procedures and penalties, so it’s crucial for participants to familiarize themselves with the rules beforehand. This ensures a fair and competitive environment for all racers.

Understanding the common penalties and protest procedures is vital for yacht racers to navigate the intricacies of the sport. By abiding by the rules and properly addressing any issues through the protest process, participants can ensure a level playing field, maintaining the integrity and fairness of yacht racing.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to compete fairly and enjoy the thrilling experience of yacht racing. Familiarize yourself with the penalties and procedures to avoid any confusion or missed chances. Stay informed and make the most of your yacht racing journey.

“Being disqualified in yacht racing is like being told you’ve won the lottery, but then realizing it’s April Fool’s Day.”

Types of Penalties in Yacht Racing

Penalties in yacht racing are necessary to ensure fairness and compliance with the rules. These penalties act as a deterrent against any wrongdoings or rule-breaking, keeping the sport’s integrity intact.

A descriptive table can help us understand the various types of penalties in yacht racing:

These penalties have serious consequences, which act as a warning to sailors not to take any unfair advantages or act dangerously. Knowing these penalties is essential for competing in yacht racing.

Penalties have been part of yacht racing since the beginning. They were put in place to maintain order in races and create a fair playing field. Over time, these penalties have been adapted to fit the changing dynamics of the sport.

A good grasp of the penalties in yacht racing helps competitors perform better on the water. It also promotes sportsmanship and upholds the spirit of fair play in this exciting discipline.

Initiating and Resolving Protests

• Pinpoint the issue .
• Be sure it follows the rules.
• Gather data, facts, and material.
• Create a clear and concise statement.
• Submit the complaint to the right body.
• Talk to the parties.
• Look for a fair outcome through negotiation or mediation.
• Pay attention to deadlines.
• Respect protocols.
• Take charge and protect your rights.
• Act now and make sure your voice is heard!

Strategies and Tactics in Yacht Racing

Strategies and tactics are vital in the world of yacht racing. Understanding the nuances of this sport can make a significant difference in performance. Here, we explore some essential strategies and tactics employed by skilled yacht racers.

In yacht racing, there are unique details to consider, such as utilizing current knowledge to select the best racing route. Additionally, understanding the impact of tidal flows and currents can help racers make more informed decisions during a race.

To become a successful yacht racer, it is crucial to study and practice these strategies and tactics diligently. By mastering these techniques, one can maximize their chances of success and stay ahead of the competition.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to excel in yacht racing. Enhance your skills by incorporating these strategies and tactics into your training regimen. Start implementing them today and take a step closer to becoming a champion on the water.

Positioning and Sail Trim Techniques: Where you’re positioned on the yacht may determine if you’re the first to cross the finish line or the first to take an unexpected dip in the water.

Positioning and Sail Trim Techniques

Table of Positioning & Sail Trim Techniques:

Plus, spinnaker handling has methods like gybing – shifting the spinnaker from one side to the other when sailing downwind. Helm balance is critical to good steering during racing.

Sir Ben Ainslie , a great sailor, said mastering positioning and sail trim techniques is the difference between successful racers and those who have difficulty competing in yacht racing events.

Reading Wind and Weather Conditions

Wind and weather conditions are essential for yacht racing. They let sailors make wise decisions, plan well, and have an edge. Here’s what to know about understanding these conditions:

• Observation – Skilled sailors look closely at wind direction, strength, and patterns. They keep an eye on clouds, waves, and temperature changes. By doing this, they can predict future weather shifts.
• Analyzing – Racers check forecasts, barometric readings, and sea temps. They combine this with their observations to get a clear picture of present and future winds.
• Adaptability – Successful sailors change their strategies with the changing conditions. They often reassess their tactics during the race, to take advantage of good winds or limit bad weather.

Yacht racers also think about local geography, tidal currents, and nearby landforms. This helps them sail complex courses accurately.

Sarah, a seasoned sailor , showed her skill in reading wind and weather conditions. Though she started in a difficult spot due to unfavorable winds, she noticed slight changes in the breeze. She used this knowledge to take risks while maneuvering her boat. Making smart decisions based on changing conditions, Sarah won in speed and tactics.

Reading wind and weather conditions is essential for yacht racers. With keen observation, data analysis, and flexibility, sailors can do well on the water. So, if you’re joining a regatta or a sailing trip, mastering this art is important for success.

Resources and Additional Information

The following section provides additional resources and information related to yacht racing rules and regulations. These resources can be helpful for further understanding and clarifying the various aspects of the sport.

• Visit reputable online platforms such as yacht racing associations, federations, and governing bodies for comprehensive rules and regulations.
• Explore websites that provide educational materials, instructional videos, and interactive tools to enhance your knowledge.
• Delve into specialized publications authored by renowned sailors, coaches, and officials. These books cover a wide range of topics, including racing tactics, strategies, and the intricacies of specific rules.
• Engage with fellow enthusiasts, experienced sailors, and professionals on sailing forums and online communities. These platforms offer valuable insights, practical tips, and discussions on various rules and racing scenarios.

It is essential to stay updated with the latest developments and amendments in the rules to ensure compliance and maintain fair competition. Continuously seek new sources of information to enhance your understanding of yacht racing regulations and improve your performance on the water.

Yacht racing rules and regulations have evolved over time to ensure fairness and safety in the sport. The sport’s history is replete with instances of rule modifications and adaptations to address emerging challenges and technological advancements. A testament to the sailing community’s commitment to maintaining a level playing field and promoting the spirit of competition.

Get ready to navigate through a sea of paperwork and bureaucracy as we dive into the world of associations and governing bodies—where bold sailors become masters of red tape.

Associations and Governing Bodies

Associations and Governing Bodies are vital for managing various industries. We present an overview of some important associations and governing bodies relevant to distinct sectors. To make it easier to understand, let’s list out the information in a table:

This table shows some examples of associations and governing bodies from many areas. Each association has a major role in setting up standards, creating rules, and promoting collaboration within its industry.

It’s worth noting that there are other associations and governing bodies in other places, each doing their part to foster growth and uphold ethical practices. These organizations often provide materials such as industry-particular research, networking chances, and professional growth programs.

Pro Tip: To stay up to date with the most recent developments in your field, participate actively in related associations or governing bodies. This can help you stay ahead and build valuable connections within your sector.

Recommended Reading and Online Sources

Unlock helpful resources to boost your knowledge! Try these ideas:

• Read up on industry news with Harvard Business Review .
• Learn new skills with Coursera or Udemy courses.
• Check out free materials from universities like MIT OpenCourseWare .
• Listen to inspiring TED Talks .
• Get answers in online forums and communities like Stack Overflow .

Go deeper with niche topics. Try IEEE Xplore or JSTOR databases for in-depth research. Master tough concepts with interactive learning platforms like Khan Academy .

Pro Tip: Don’t just consume info, engage with it. Take notes, join discussions, and apply what you learn.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is yacht racing?

Yacht racing is a competitive sport where sailboats or yachts compete against each other in a designated course to determine the fastest or most skillful boat.

What are the basic rules of yacht racing?

The basic rules of yacht racing include giving way to other boats, avoiding collisions, understanding right of way, and following course boundaries. Each race may also have specific rules and regulations.

How are yacht racing courses determined?

Yacht racing courses are determined by race organizers and can vary depending on the type of race and the location. Courses typically include marks, buoys, or specific geographic points that boats must navigate around.

What is the role of a race committee in yacht racing?

The race committee is responsible for organizing and overseeing yacht races. They set the course, establish starting and finishing lines, enforce rules, and ensure fair competition.

Do yacht racing rules change for different types of boats?

Yes, yacht racing rules can vary slightly depending on the class or type of boat. Different classes may have specific regulations regarding sail dimensions, equipment, or crew size.

How can I learn more about yacht racing rules and regulations?

To learn more about yacht racing rules and regulations, you can refer to official rulebooks such as the Racing Rules of Sailing published by World Sailing. You can also seek guidance from experienced sailors or enroll in sailing courses.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Table of Contents

• points equal to the average, to the nearest tenth of a point (0.05 to be rounded upward), of her points in all the races in the series except the race in question;
• points equal to the average, to the nearest tenth of a point (0.05 to be rounded upward), of her points in all the races before the race in question; or
• points based on the position of the boat in the race at the time of the incident that justified redress. 

Previous Versions

Last updated.

Recovering from an OCS

When you find yourself heading back to the line to restart, don't despair, there's a whole racecourse ahead to get back in the race.

It's the ultimate bummer. The starting gun sounds. You’re in the front row and looking good. Then there's another horn, the X flag and, after an excruciating wait, you hear your sail number on the VHF. You're OCS, and you can kiss a good result goodbye. Don't give up. An OCS is a hurdle for sure, but you've still got the whole race in front of you, not to mention whatever is left of the regatta. Take a deep breath, and keep these tips in mind.

1) Stick to the game plan So many times the frustration of being OCS causes teams to completely abandon the prestart game plan. Here's a perfect example: You're OCS at the leeward end of the line, you clear yourself by jibing around the pin, and then you head off on port tack and go hard right, only to see the left side come in strong, just like you’d predicted. It's the ultimate double whammy! Don’t abandon all your prestart research.

2) Work to get a clear lane Sticking with the example above, your best opportunity to get to the left might be to clear yourself around the pin and tack back to starboard. You'll be second row — or worse — but the separation from the boats that started properly may allow you to execute the plan. However, this approach may also involve a little bit of wishful thinking, especially in a big fleet. So instead of tacking right back to starboard and sailing in bad air, sail on port tack to take advantage of the lifts off the backside of the fleet on starboard, and choose a cleaner lane for your tack toward the left side of the racecourse.

3) Get out of phase (with the fleet) If neither side is favored, look to find clean air by going against the grain: sailing on port when most of the fleet is on starboard, and vice versa. Sailing out of phase with the fleet will create separation and allow you to sail your boat at optimum speed. Groups of boats always tend to slow one another down. I am always amazed by how long people will sail in a pack when tacking away would afford them much cleaner air.

4) Minimize tacks Hitting a corner is one way to reduce the number of tacks. But it's a risky call. If you decide to be more conservative, make sure to limit your tacks to the bare minimum. Double-check your lanes and try to anticipate where boats ahead of you will tack.

5) Boatspeed This may seem obvious; boatspeed is always important. But it’s easy to get discouraged or distracted when looking at so many transoms. Redouble your efforts and focus. Every ounce of energy needs to go into sailing the boat fast.

6) Focus on short-term goals Turn your OCS into a positive. Establish short-term goals by looking one mark ahead. It can be difficult for everybody to put everything they have into hiking when it may all be for naught. A quick acknowledgment of the mistake is key. Identifying boats that can be picked off or closed on, and then maintaining a constant dialogue about your progress, will keep the team's frame of mind as positive as possible. 

Originally published on SailingWorld.com as part of the Terry's Tips column.

The Discussion

Us, too. We pour that passion into each of our newsletters to help you enjoy sailing even more.

• Guidance and good practice

Starting penalties

Download as pdf

Changes in this version – July 2021

Amended wording to reflect changes in the definitions for the 2021-2024 rules.

Introduction of World Sailing Development Rule DR21-01.

Introduction

At events with many competitors or spectator vessels, it is sometimes not desirable, for safety reasons, to require a boat that is on the course side of the starting line at the starting signal (OCS) to return to start.

Under the 2021-2024 RRS, it is no longer possible for the notice of race or sailing instructions alone to make the necessary rule changes to allow for this.

Rule 28.1 requires a boat to “start, sail the course and finish.” All three of these requirements are the subject of definitions. A boat that is OCS and does not return has not started as defined, and, because the definition Finish requires a boat to have started as defined, it does not finish even if it correctly sails the course and passes through the finishing line in the required direction. The notice of race or sailing instructions are not permitted to change definitions in the Racing Rules of Sailing (See RRS 86.1 (a) and (b)).

World Sailing have recognised that this causes problems for event organisers that do not want OCS boats to return to the pre-start side of the line and have introduced Development Rule DR21-01 to address the issue.

See https://www.sailing.org/documents/racingrules/experimental-rules.php

World Sailing Development Rule DR21-01

The Development Rule provides a change to the Definition Start that permits a boat to start either by crossing the starting line at or after the starting signal, or by crossing the line within a specified time window before the starting signal.

A boat that crosses before the starting signal but within the specified window can receive a finishing position provided it accepts a penalty described in the notice of race or sailing instructions.

The notice of race or sailing instructions may forbid boats that cross the starting line early from returning to cross again.

Implementation

The definition start.

The notice of race must amend the definition start as follows:

Start A boat starts when her hull having been entirely on the pre-start side of the starting line, and having complied with rule 30.1 if it applies, any part of her hull crosses the starting line from the pre-start side to the course side either

(a) at or after her starting signal, or

(b) during the last [insert time] before her starting signal.

It must also state that the change is made in accordance with WS DR21-01.

World Sailing recommend that this change is included in the section of the notice of race that describes the rules that apply to the event.

Note: with the exception of the time window defined in paragraph (b), no changes to the wording of the definition are permitted.

Note: rules 30.2 (Z Flag), 30.3 (U Flag) or 30.4 (Black Flag) should not be used with this development rule.

Option for Boats to Return

The notice of race or sailing instructions should specify whether a boat that crosses the starting line before its starting signal is:

• not permitted to return; or
• permitted to return to start in accordance with paragraph a) of the definition.

Option 1) will be appropriate when, as described in the introduction, environmental factors in the starting area make it unsafe for boats to attempt to return.

See the World Sailing recommended wording below.

Note that for option 1) the World Sailing wording only prohibits returning by boats that cross the starting line early within the specified window. If option 1) is adopted, further wording should be included to ensure that boats crossing the starting line earlier than permitted by the definition are also not permitted to return.

If no wording is specified, boats are permitted to return by default.

The notice of race or sailing instructions must specify the penalty that will apply to a boat that starts in compliance with paragraph (b).

The World Sailing recommended wording shown below gives options for the most common situations. These can be modified to meet local event requirements.

A boat that starts in accordance with paragraph (b) of the definition and takes the specified penalty has broken no rule and no further penalty can be applied for this incident.

Starting in accordance with paragraph (b) is permitted by the definition and a boat that does so and takes the appropriate penalty does not break rule 2 even if it does so deliberately in an attempt to gain an advantage.

If a boat crosses the starting line within the window permitted by paragraph (b) and the specified penalty is an action to be taken by the boat, the boat has started but if it does not take that action it has broken the relevant rule in the notice of race or sailing instructions and may be protested under that rule.

A boat that crosses the starting line earlier than permitted by paragraph (b) and has not returned (even if prohibited from doing so) has not started and should be scored as OCS and may be protested by a competitor under RRS 28.1.

Informing Boats

Consideration must be given as to whether or how boats will be notified that they have crossed the starting line before the starting signal and amend rule 29.1 accordingly.

For example:

• Flag X will not be displayed; or
• If Flag X is displayed, a boat need not (or shall not) return; or
• A different flag will be used to denote that at least one boat crossed the starting line before the starting signal; or
• Boats will be informed by another specified method.

It may also be appropriate to specify whether or how a boat is to be informed that it has not started in accordance with the definition (i.e., earlier than the permitted time window).

Time Window

Careful consideration should be given to the time window specified in paragraph (b). This will depend on the specific circumstances of the event, but the permissible window should be considered together with the applicable penalty (or range of penalties) to ensure that there is no advantage gained by a boat that starts in compliance with paragraph (b).

• Back to guidance and good practice

• AROUND THE SAILING WORLD
• BOAT OF THE YEAR
• Email Newsletters
• Best Marine Electronics & Technology
• America’s Cup
• St. Petersburg
• Caribbean Championship
• Boating Safety

Terry’s Tips: Recovering from an OCS

• By Terry Hutchinson
• Updated: May 16, 2016

It’s the ultimate bummer. The starting gun sounds, you’re in the front row and looking good. Just like they draw it up on the wipe board. Then there’s another horn, the X flag, and, after an excruciating wait, you hear your sail number on the VHF. You’re OCS and you can kiss a good result good-bye.

Don’t give up so quickly. An OCS is a hurdle for sure, one of the bigger ones you’ll ever face in your quest for a good result. But on the plus side, you’ve still got the whole race in front of you—not to mention whatever’s left of the regatta. Take a few deep breaths, and keep these tips in mind.

1. Stick to the game plan . So many times the frustration of being OCS causes teams to completely abandon the pre-start game plan. Here’s a perfect example, you’re OCS at the leeward end of the line, you clear yourself by jibing around the pin, and then you head off on port tack and go hard right only to see the left side come in strong, just like you’d predicted. It’s the ultimate double whammy! Don’t abandon all your pre-start research.

2. Work to get a clear lane. Sticking with the example above, your best opportunity to get to the left might be to clear yourself around the pin and tack back to starboard. You’ll be second row—or worse—but the separation from the boats that started properly may allow for you to execute the plan. However, this may also be a little bit of wishful thinking, especially in a big fleet. So instead of tacking right back to starboard and sailing in bad air, sail on port tack to take advantage of the lifts off of the backside of the fleet on starboard and choose a cleaner lane for your tack toward the left side of the race course.

3. Get out of phase (with the fleet). If neither side is strongly favored, look to find clean air by going against the grain: sailing on port when most of the fleet is on starboard, and vice versa. Sailing out of phase with the fleet will create separation and allow you to sail your boat at optimum speed. Groups of boats always tend to slow each other down. I am always amazed how long people will sail in a pack when tacking away would afford them much cleaner air.

4. Minimize tacks. Hitting a corner is one way to reduce the number of tacks. But it’s a risky call. If you decide to be more conservative, make sure to limit your tacks to the bare minimum. Double check your lanes and try to anticipate where boats ahead of you will tack.

5. Boat speed. This may seem obvious. Boat speed is always important. But it’s easy to get discouraged or distracted when looking at so many transoms. Redouble your efforts and focus. Every ounce of energy needs to go into sailing the boat fast.

6. Focus on short-term goals. Turn your OCS into a positive. Establishing short-term goals, for example, by only looking one mark ahead, helps the motivation on the boat. It can be difficult for everybody to put everything they have into hiking when it may all be for naught. A quick acknowledgment of the mistake is key. Identifying boats that can be picked off, or closed on, and then maintaining a constant dialogue of your progress will keep the team’s frame of mind as positive as possible.

• More: Buoy Racing , Handicap Racing , OCS , one-design , PHRF , Pro Tips , Sailing How To , Strategy , Tactics , Terry Hutchinson , Terry's Tips
• More How To

The Wisdom of Augie Diaz

Why S-Turns, Roll Jibes and Roll Tacks Are Fast

The Path to Consistent Boatspeed

Headsail Trim Tips For Floating Leads

Brauer Sails into Hearts, Minds and History

Anticipation and Temptation

America’s Offshore Couple

Jobson All-Star Juniors 2024: The Fast Generation

• Digital Edition
• Customer Service
• Privacy Policy
• Cruising World
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding

2024 High Point Series

2024 Preliminary Results*

High Point # 4 - April 13

KHYC’s 2024 Spinnaker Series Race #2 - Trans-Harbor Race

Race and registration information link

Previous High Point Calendars

2023 Calendar

2022 Calendar

2021 Calendar

Previous High Point Series Results

-View 2023 Results

-View 2022 Results

- View 2021 Results

2020 Series *Cancelled*

- View 2019 Results

- View 2018 Results

King Harbor Course Chart

Marina del Rey Course Chart 17

Click Here for Course Chart 17

High Point Series Rules

Description: The annual High Point Series consists of 12 races, six races each from each of our two harbors, King Harbor and Marina del Rey. The individual races are hosted by member Yacht Clubs of the Association. All Notices of Race, Sailing Instructions and fees are issued and specified by the host clubs. The scheduled High Point Series events consist of PHRF, One-design, ORCA and Cruiser classes. When a High Point event includes multiple races, the High Point race is the second race of the day.

Eligibility: An entrant in the High Point Series is an individual who is named in the race results of the designated High Point Race, and who is a member in good standing of an ASMBYC club. Their boat must participate in six (6) races to qualify. Individuals who are not affiliated with an ASMBYC club are welcome to participate and may be scored, however they are not eligible for awards. Scoring: The entrant’s score in each High Point event is computed depending on his/her position and on the number of boats sailing in his/her class. The score is determined by the following formula: ((number of boats surpassed + 1)/ number of boats entered in the class) X 100 and rounded to the nearest integer. A score of DNF, OCS, DSQ, or RAF will establish participation in an event. An abandoned race is not scored. A bonus is given to each entrant racing in an event outside his/her home harbor. The entrant's score for that event is increased 30% as calculated above. A boat's home harbor is determined by its associated yacht club. Boats that don’t meet this requirement, will have it assigned by The Hight Point Chair. Boat must participate in six (6) races to qualify for the series. The total of an entrant’s best six scores will be combined for an overall score and the basis for receiving an award.

Awards: Two perpetual trophies are to be properly engraved and awarded at the ASMBYC Annual Installation Dinner, usually held in January of the year following the series. "The High Point Championship Trophy": awarded to the entrant having the highest overall score. "The Home Harbor Trophy": is awarded to the entrant from the other harbor than that of the High Point Championship Trophy recipient, and has the highest overall score among those from the other harbor.

• Search forums
• Sailing Anarchy

Starting Signals, OCS and Redress

• Thread starter Philc
• Start date Sep 30, 2009

More options

Super anarchist.

• Sep 30, 2009

The day is very windy with a gusty westerly at 25 to 35 knots. Start boat sets a long line and there are 5 hardy soles from the first division on the line. Start Time is 13.00. Start boat sounds the horn at 12.55 and flies the correct flags for the division. With about 1 min to go the start boat hoists the AP and sounds two horns. One yacht is away from the line and a second yacht has sought some shelter to change her headsail. Neither yacht noticed the AP. As 13.00 came around the Start Boat drops the AM and a hooter sounds. Yachts one and two believe that this is the start as it is at the right time. One min later the Start Boat hoists the Div flag for the division. Yachts one & two continue to race believing that was the start. Yachts 3,4 & 5 follow the correct start and start at 13.05. After about one hour of racing yacht one has a radio discussion with the start boat who tells them that they were OCS. Yachts one and two “Retire” and lodge requests for redress. Yacht one states in part “ The race committee failed to adequately communicate after starting the div sequence that this had been altered by an AP. Conditions were 25 – 30 knots. No sounds heard, no radio advice & in conditions no flags sighted. After starting sequence at 12.55, near boat with 1 min to go horn heard & believed to be in our start sequence 1 min warning.” Sailing instructions state that a radio MAY be used. How do you think the Protest Committee should find in this case?  

johnnysaint

Was there a recall signal after the start signal?  

Sorry, both boats are OCS and no redress granted. They were responsible for observing the flags. Were they not questioning why the other 3 boats didn't start with them? Maybe the should have radioed the RC sooner. Sounds like a tough break for them - but there's nobody else to blame.  

• Thread starter

johnnysaint said: Was there a recall signal after the start signal? Click to expand...

Philc said: johnnysaint said: Was there a recall signal after the start signal? Click to expand...

BalticBandit

I was in a race last December where the RC did a very poor job of managing the start. The line was between a bouy offshore and the corner of the clubhouse on the shore (standard for this race for many years). The RC set up at the back of the deck in deep shadow and the flags were hard to see due to poor lighting and lack of wind to make flags fly. Then as the sequence was in progress, the RC stopped the sequence for commercial traffic (a ferry boat), and restarted the sequence after a three minute pause. The fleet was so confused that most started at the wrong time (about 60 of 80 boats) and were scored OCS. A protest hearing ended up throwing out the entire race. It sounds like this committee was guilty of the same type of offense. They created a confusing situation that was not noticed by all of the boats. Having the AP flag come down and restarting the sequence at the same time a start was supposed to happen lead to two boats starting the race. Now while the RC may have been technically correct, they created a problem that was not fair to everyone. I belief that RCs should remember that they are there to help the racers have a fair race. When the RC creates a situation that will lead to problems, they should stop the sequence and make sure everyone is on the same page. I am not advocating that the RC hold the racers' hand, but making their intentions very clear is what the RC should strive to do. In the areas that I race in, the first start boats are often the bigger boats with more experienced sailors on them. If these boats get confused, it can cause a domino effect down the sequence, as it did last December. So while the RC may not have broken any rules and the two boats probably cannot do anything about it, I would want this discussed with the RC so that they see the problems they created so that it won't happen again. JM  

Not actually an anarchist.

• Oct 1, 2009

Its difficult to see what the RC should have done differently. Isn't "watch the flags" one of the things that's drummed into you? And an AP is nothing but distinctive. I stuffed up a start on Sunday because I hadn't noticed that the RC had stopped finishing late finishers and got into a new sequence. If I'd paid more attention I'd have spotted that A and S had been replaced by A and P. I didn't. Tough.  

Randall Flagg

In a rule 26 start the visual signals are what counts. The sounds are there to call attention to the visual signals. It appears there 2 boats started before their class flag was even hoisted. I would not grant any redress.  

Reflex Sailor

Randall Flagg said: In a rule 26 start the visual signals are what counts. The sounds are there to call attention to the visual signals. It appears there 2 boats started before their class flag was even hoisted. I would not grant any redress. Click to expand...

Reflex Sailor said: Randall Flagg said: In a rule 26 start the visual signals are what counts. The sounds are there to call attention to the visual signals. It appears there 2 boats started before their class flag was even hoisted. I would not grant any redress. Click to expand...

johnnysaint said: 2 boats on the course side of the line at the start signal. Recall. RRS 29.1 Click to expand...

Whilst I wasn't said RO on the day, I have seen the protest committees hearing. Pc , who sat other than ST?  

meanmachine

Hobie anarchy.

IMHO, there is no grounds for redress. The RC did nothing "wrong" - by the book (except perhaps the Individual Recall - which is debatable). On the other hand, the 2 competitors didn't help themselves, either. If you're going to request redress for being OCS, you should finish the race anyway. It would have been easy to adjust their times - but they retired, so that is now impossible. However, the RC wasn't being very smart, either. A smart RC wants to avoid going to the room. A smart RC would have not have dropped the AP at the same time as the original scheduled start. A smart RC would have contacted the competitors on the radio and let them know what was going on. A smart RC would have sent a mark boat after the two competitors to let them know their timing was off when it was obvious they got their timing wrong (last resort). Smart RC's don't end up in the room. Not-so-smart RC's end up in the room and have races abandoned because of their inability to see beyond the rule book - they can't put themselves in the competitors' shoes.  

JimC said: johnnysaint said: 2 boats on the course side of the line at the start signal. Recall. RRS 29.1 Click to expand...

Smoke and oakum said: I learned something today. At first I thought "no redress" since rule 28.1 requres a boat to start correctly. But I looked at the case book and low and behold: When a boat has no reason to know that she crossed the starting line early andthe race committee fails to promptly signal ‘Individual recall’ and scores her OCS, this is an error that significantly worsens the boat’s score through no fault of her own, and therefore entitles her to redress. Click to expand...

BalticBandit said: Smoke and oakum said: I learned something today. At first I thought "no redress" since rule 28.1 requres a boat to start correctly. But I looked at the case book and low and behold: When a boat has no reason to know that she crossed the starting line early andthe race committee fails to promptly signal ‘Individual recall’ and scores her OCS, this is an error that significantly worsens the boat’s score through no fault of her own, and therefore entitles her to redress. Click to expand...

Latest posts

• Latest: Sol 2.O
• 1 minute ago

• Latest: billy backstay
• 2 minutes ago

• Latest: Poodle56
• 3 minutes ago

Sailing Anarchy Podcast with Scot Tempesta

From its earliest days, yacht racing has always been an important part of the Boston Yacht Club. Today, BYC members compete at all levels of the US Sailing and World Sailing competition. The premier offshore racing event for the area is the Marblehead-to-Halifax Ocean Race, run in conjunction with the Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron every other year. Each year, the Boston runs a PHRF regatta over Memorial Day weekend, the Hodder Ocean Race and the Beringer Bowl Overnight Race to Provincetown. In 2021, we added the Mike Mentuck Memorial Ocean Race which runs every other year – when the Halifax race is not running. The BYC was the primary participant in founding the PHRF New England Organization in 1977, and is a member of the Mass Bay Sailing Association (MBSA).

One-design racers aren't forgotten either - the club participates in the Marblehead Racing Association's MRA Series and the Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta Series at Marblehead Race Week (formerly known as the NOODs). The Boston runs a frostbite series in MIT Tech Dinghy’s each winter, hosts the Jackson Cup Invitational for team racing, and competes annually with EYC and CYC for bragging rights to the Commodore's Cup for team racing.  In 2023, the BYC was asked to host the US Sailing Match Racing Qualifier for the third year in a row, and, this year we are running the US Sailing Women's Match Racing Invitational, which is an affirmation of both our on-and-off-the-water race management.

Clean Regattas

Boston Yacht Club is committed to providing environmental stewardship. Every BYC Race and Series will operate as a Clean Regatta, executing to the greatest extent possible best practices defined by Sailors for the Sea in its Clean Regattas program . All competitors should plan to promote and adopt a “leave no trace” approach before, during and after the event, both at sea and ashore. All competitors and support personnel, including vendors, are asked to cooperate by reducing waste, avoiding use of single-use plastics (such as bottled water), and preventing toxins from entering marine habitats.

Fleet Handicap regattas

• 2023 Season Pass The Season pass includes Wednesday Night Racing (WNR) (5/17-9/13), Memorial Day Regatta (Saturday, 5/27), and Hodder Regatta (Sunday 8/6).   Entry fees are the same as last year. New discount : If you and your boat did not race last year, then you will receive a 20% discount as a new or returning racer.  2023 Golden Ticket!  New this year!   The 2023 Golden Ticket includes all 3 regattas above PLUS the Beringer Bowl on 6/16, all for $315 (or $275 if you are a new or returning to Wednesday Night Racing).  Automatic entry into individual events If you sign up for the Season Pass OR The Golden Ticket, please give the race committee 7 days to enter your boat into the individual events, based on the answers to registration questions.  Changes after registering If you decide to change your class in a regatta (i.e., from Spin to JAM or JAM to Spin or to cancel or sign up), please email the RC at [email protected] regarding the change and we will make the change for you.  Class changes can be made within a day of the individual event.  Register here For more information, or to sign up for either the Season Pass or The Golden Ticket, click here: https://theclubspot.com/regatta/7r8MJGD1zJ

Join us for another Wednesday night season .  At summer peak as many as 50 boats come out to break up the week with this classic annual series. First warning is at 1755.  After finishing, come back to the BYC for beers and burgers, and some special themed nights this season. There are classes for PHRF and J/105s. We’d like to thank our loyal 2024 sponsors, Rumson’s Rum, West Marine, & Sudbury Products for their generous support. 2023 Packages We are pleased to offer racing this year at last year's prices, with some new discounts available. Enter into this series for the full season (by buying the Season Pass ) and as always you get entry to the BYC Memorial Day and the James R. Hodder Regattas at no extra cost.  New!   Or better yet, sign up for the 2024  Golden Ticket and get special pricing for these 3 races plus the Beringer Bowl.  New!  If you and your boat did not race last year, then you get a 20% discount as a New or Returning racer. Schedule: Skippers meeting will be May 8th 2024 1900 hours at the BYC. First scheduled race is May 15h 2024. Season ends September 11th 2024. Series awards will be October 4th 2023 1830 hours at the BYC. Register:   Sign up for the Season Pass or The Golden Ticket below:    https://theclubspot.com/regatta/7r8MJGD1zJ   Click on the link below to register for just one series. (Spring, Summer or Fall Series).    https://theclubspot.com/regatta/yGJsiFevRd Visit Wednesday Night Racing event on Clubspot

Visit Memorial Day Regatta event on Clubspot Kickoff your summer on Saturday May 25th with this classic PHRF event, first run in 1966. All PHRF classes, including a Doublehanded division, are racing.  Awards The Awards party is at the BYC after the race.  The Centennial Ocean Race Trophy will be awarded to the 1st place Class A yacht.  The S. Ralph Cross trophy will be awarded to the top Class B yacht. The Mohawk trophy will be awarded to the top Class C yacht The Blake Cooley trophy will be awarded to the top Class D yacht.   Registration The Season Pass and The Golden Ticket automatically enters you into this regatta, unless you specify otherwise.    Changes can be made up until one day before the event, Friday 5/24. email:  [email protected] .  For more information or if you would like to enter this event without buying either The Season Pass or The Golden Ticket, click on the link below. https://theclubspot.com/regatta/uMY1pBoKFA

Visit Beringer Bowl event on Yachtscoring Beringer Bowl Overnight Ocean Race – new date this season! Friday 7/19 - Saturday 7/20 . Reserve your slip or mooring at the Provincetown Marina on Dockwa as soon as possible. The race will be similar to prior years, and the awards party will be epic at the Surf Club on McMillian Pier. For information on the Surf Club  https://www.surfclubprovincetown.com/   OCS Start OCS Class starts at 1200 hrs Satellite trackers will be used for the OCS Class. Overnight race Race starts at 1900 hrs. The race will use PHRF ratings and time-on-time scoring.   This is an MBSA qualifier with a 1.25 multiplier, including the Doublehanded division. Satellite trackers will be used for all overnight boats. New!  Iron Puffin award to the top place finisher in combined MHOR and Beringer Bowl.   Registration If you've signed up for The Golden Ticket, you will automatically be entered into the Beringer Bowl.  You can change your entry up until the day before the race, 7/18. email [email protected] . Click on the link below to sign up individually for this race. https://yachtscoring.com/emenu.cfm?eid=15865

The Boston Yacht Club and the Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron are pleased to announce the 40th Biennial Marblehead-to-Halifax Ocean Race. The race will start on Sunday July 6th 2025 and is open to all yachts meeting the requirements published in the Notice of Race and which are accepted by MHORC. The race will offer scoring under ORR, PHRF Racing, PHRF Cruising and HPR. The race will start in Marblehead, Massachusetts, and will finish in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and is an ISAF Category 2 event. This race is a qualifier for the New England Lighthouse Series for PHRF yachts and the ORR East Coast Championship. Special competitions will include double handed crew in the spinnaker divisions, club teams, and senior-ish crews. The Olin J. Stephens Trophy will be awarded for the yacht scored under ORR with the best combined performance in the Newport Bermuda Race and the Marblehead-to-Halifax Race.  The Friar Trophy will be awarded to the yacht with the best combined performance in Route Halifax Saint-Pierre and this Marblehead-to-Halifax Ocean Race. This race is also the qualifier for the Friar Trophy combined award with the next Route Halifax Saint-Pierre. New!  The Iron Puffin award will be awarded to the yacht with the best combined performance in the 2024 Beringer Bowl Overnight Race to Provincetown and the Marblehead-to-Halifax Ocean Race.  Visit the Marblehead to Halifax website  https://www.marbleheadtohalifax.com

Visit Fast Mermaid event on Clubspot Back by popular demand! Pursuit Race (combining PHRF & One Design) & fundraising event in honor of Lindsay Smith, a local sailor and domestic violence survivor. The Race New Date this season!  Sunday June 23rd, 2024 This is an MBSA Pursuit Race Qualifier.    Registration   For more information visit EYC Website: https://www.easternyc.org/regattas

Visit Hodder Ocean Race on Clubspot New date this season! The 2024 running of the James R. Hodder Ocean Race will be September 8th, 2024.  Classic Ocean Race with fun awards party afterwards. The James R. Hodder Trophy will be awarded for first place in Class A.  Registration The Season Pass and The Golden Ticket automatically enter you into this regatta, unless you specify otherwise.    Changes can be made up until one day before the event, 9/7 -- email  [email protected] .  If you would like to enter this event without buying either The Season Pass or The Golden Ticket, click on the link below. https://theclubspot.com/regatta/I971SAdi4G

The Ted Hood Regatta will take place in Marblehead on August 16th - 18th, 2024. The Ted Hood is open to Handicap and One Design Classes. Double Handed as well as Jib & Main Classes are also invited. There will be daily trophies awarded for each class along with an overall class and regatta trophy.

We’re looking forward to running the races in cooperation with our friends at the CYC, EYC, and STC. Race Site  

Visit Sail Salem event on Clubspot The Sail Salem Pursuit Regatta will be hosted on Labor Day, Monday September 2nd, 2024. Proceeds benefit the Sail Salem Organization, a youth community boating center in Salem MA.  Chowder and Hot Dog's, Rumson's Rum, and Awards Party afterwards back at the BYC. Join us for this annual tradition!  For more information and to register for this race, please click here: https://theclubspot.com/regatta/66HD6gCk1G

• Marblehead Chowder Cup 2024 is hosted by BYC on September 22nd, 2024.
• The Michael A. Mentuck Ocean Race will be held on Friday July 19, 2024

team racing

The Boston Yacht Club's 24th annual Jackson Cup Team Racing Event is April 27-28, 2024

  2024 Teams

 Jackson Cup Team Racing is confirmed for April 27-28, 2024 , with 8 invited teams competing in Sonars in the two day event. Racing will be in the Marblehead Harbor where you can enjoy the racing from the BYC’s various decks, from Crocker Park and other venues.   2023 Notice Board   Historic Results   2022 Results

Team racing opportunities are offered at BYC Year Round. If interested in joining us, an invitation is available VIA the Teamsnap App. Please contact [email protected] to join. Our Signature Event, the Jackson Cup occurs each year in late April and attracts competitive teams from a National and International scale. We are hosting some amazing events in 2022 and would love to have you join the team. our tentative events for 2023 are as listed below:   Jackson Cup April 29-30 2023 Commodores Cup June 30 2023 BYC Host 2V2 team Race September 17 2023 CYC Halloween Team race October 28-29 2023 EYC Host  There will be more dates for team racing then just the events. The team is looking forward TO DOING MORE PRACTICES BEFORE EVENTS THIS YEAR! CHECK OUT THE SIGN UP TO GET INVOLVED. BYC Team Racing has a long, storied line of success as previous results indicate:    · 1st Halloween Team Race, Eastern YC, 2010 · 1st Halloween Team Race, Eastern YC, 2011 · 1st Halloween Team Race, Eastern YC, 2013 · 2nd Halloween Team Race, Eastern YC, 2020 · 2nd Jackson Cup, Boston YC, 2019 · 2nd Halloween Team Race, Eastern YC, 2017 · 2nd Jackson Cup, Boston YC, 2016 · 2nd Jackson Cup, Boston YC, 2015 · 3rd Halloween Team Race, Eastern YC, 2018 · 3rd Hood Trophy, Corinthian YC, 2020 · 3rd Hood Trophy, Corinthian YC, 2016 · 3rd Hood Trophy, Corinthian YC, 2014 · 3rd Jackson Cup, Boston YC, 2014 · 4th Jackson Cup, Boston YC, 2018 · 4th Jackson Cup, Boston YC, 2017 · 4th Halloween Team Race, Eastern YC, 2015 · 4th Halloween Team Race, Eastern YC, 2014 · 4th Hood Trophy, Corinthian YC, 2015 · 5th Hood Trophy, Corinthian YC, 2017

Race Rotations   Results The Geoff Smith Cup is the dedicated practice day for BYC, CYC and EYC for the Jackson Cup. There is a simple rotation with typically only 6 boats being sailed. Red & Blue Team Race sails are often used. Please contact [email protected] for additional information and opportunities to participate.

one design racing

• Learn more about the Saturday One Design series:  http://www.mheadrace.org/

135th Marblehead Race Week • July 25-28, 2024

The highlight of the summer schedule is Marblehead Race Week, which was established in 1889. Race Week takes place during the last full week of July. In conjunction with Junior Race Week, the racing typically attracts upwards of 200 boats. Sponsored by Helly Hansen, The Sailing World Regatta Series (Race week) is always held during the final full week of July. More information can be found on the  Sailing World Regatta Series website. Note: Your MRA membership includes the registration fee for Marblehead Race Week. However, a separate registration form (at no additional fee) will be required of racers that wish to compete in the Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta Series  (Race Week). This form is available via the Sailing World Regatta Series  website prior to the regatta.   Visit the HHSWRS Website

The Boston Yacht Club is proud to be the host club for the 2023 US Sailing Invitational Match Race Qualifier - May 20th & 21st 2023 US Sailing Women's Match Race Qualifier - June 10th & 11th For more details on the Women's Qualifier, please click on the link below https://theclubspot.com/regatta/jrF86TlQgG

• Commodore's Message
• Officers and Committees
• Staff Directory
• Annual Cruise
• Private Functions
• Club Etiquette
• Member Login

• Find A School
• Certifications
• North U Sail Trim
• Inside Sailing with Peter Isler
• Docking Made Easy
• Study Quizzes
• Bite-sized Lessons
• Fun Quizzes
• Sailing Challenge

How to Graduate from Cruiser to Racer — Steps to Start Racing Sailboats 🔉

By: Zeke Quezada, ASA Learn To Sail , North U

So often in the sailing world, we’re presented with a question that takes binary form — “are you a cruiser or a racer?” Sure, people tend to have their preferences, but I’d like to propose one can embrace both dimensions of sailing in the same way one can appreciate both fine art and Formula 1.

I have two boys who sail. One kid has a nice cheeseboard and understands the art of sailing, eating, and drinking on the ocean. His crew is consistently composed of competent sailors that want to relax and enjoy the ocean environment. 

The second son wants to go fast. If he is not going fast, he would instead take a nap  — the non-racing aspects of sailing aren’t interesting to him. His crew is a group of competitive sailors who love to win. They work well together as a team and can be found trying to go fast on a leisurely Saturday afternoon sail.

So many times I have wanted for both sons to experience the strengths of the other son out on the water — to become complete sailors, fully appreciative of the entire sailing experience, and also fully capable of maximizing speed and performance all in one optimized, well-rounded package.

In fact, this is not only my wish, but at American Sailing, it is our goal for every sailor out there to fall in love with both aspects of sailing. If you are already a seasoned cruiser, or just getting started sailing, here are a few steps on how to graduate to full-blown racer while still sharpening your general sailing skills.

What Are the Prerequisites to Sailboat Racing?

Learning to race sailboats involves a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. First, you do need to have a grasp of the fundamentals of sailing. ASA 101 certification can get you in the front door of the racing environment. In addition, you should have knowledge and experience on how to maneuver the boat, trim the sails, and use the wind to your advantage.

With the Sailing Basics Behind Me, What’s Next?

Once you have gained knowledge beyond the simple skills you learned in ASA 101, these are a few ways to get started with sailboat racing.

Join a sail club or yacht club that offers and organizes local races. Being part of the sailing community will allow you to meet others interested in the sport. While the super serious racers might not invite you on their race boat, you can find a few skippers looking for crew. Wednesday night racing is a fun way to learn about sailboat racing and an excellent way to make new sailing friends.

Attend a clinic. North U is a new part of the American Sailing curriculum, and they specialize in helping sailors become more efficient out on the water. In the simplest terms, they teach you how to go faster, and this is accomplished through lessons on . seamanship, technique, skills, and even your ability to work as a team. This curriculum can be accessed through online courses, webinars, workbooks and best of all, the North U clinics that get you racing.

These clinics are a great way to familiarize yourself with racing and racing technique. You’ll learn about strategy, tactics, and rules. Take a look at some of the racing clinics that North U offers at NorthU.com

Learn the lingo of sailboat racing. While some of the common sailing terms are included, sailboat racing also has quite a few terms that you should be familiar with:

Here are some common sailing racing terms:

• Beat – sailing upwind towards the windward mark
• Reach – sailing perpendicular to the wind, at an angle between a beat and a run
• Run – sailing downwind away from the windward mark
• Tack – turning the bow of the boat through the wind in order to change direction
• Jibe – turning the stern of the boat through the wind in order to change direction
• Windward – the side of the boat closest to the wind
• Leeward – the side of the boat farthest from the wind
• Start line – the line across which boats start a race
• Starting gun – the signal that starts the race
• OCS – “on course side,” meaning a boat crossed the start line too early and must restart
• Layline – the imaginary line that a boat must sail to in order to round a mark without tacking or jibing
• Mark – An object the sailing instructions require a boat to leave on a specified side, and a race committee vessel surrounded by navigable water from which the starting or finishing line extends. An anchor line or an object attached accidentally to a mark is not part of it.
• Mark rounding – sailing around a buoy or other fixed object on the course
• Finish line – the line across which boats finish the race
• Protest – An allegation made under rule 61.2 by a boat, a race committee, a technical committee or a protest committee that a boat has broken a rule.
• Penalty – a penalty imposed on a boat for breaking a racing rule, typically a time penalty or a penalty turn.
• Zone – The area around a mark within a distance of three hull lengths of the boat nearer to it. A boat is in the zone when any part of her hull is in the zone.

Familiarize yourself with the rules of sailboat racing. It takes time to fully learn the racing rules of sailing ; they are complex and very detailed. Having a cursory glance at the basic concepts of the rules can increase your enjoyment, and whet your appetite to enjoy the more strategic side of sailing. That said, you don’t have to master all the rules to get out there and join a crew in a race to start enjoying the racing side of the sport. Many clubs have friendly competitions and entry level races to help you learn the art of racing.

Here are some of the most common or interesting racing rules:

• Start: Boats must stay behind the start line until the starting signal is given. Crossing the line early can result in a penalty.
• Right of way: When two boats are approaching each other, the boat on the starboard tack has the right of way and should be given room to pass. When boats are on opposite tacks, a port-tack boat shall keep clear of a starboard-tack boat.
• Helping Those in Danger: A boat or competitor shall give all possible help to any person or vessel in danger.
• Penalty: A boat that breaks a rule may be penalized by doing a 360-degree turn or retiring from the race.
• Protest: If a boat believes that another boat has broken a rule, it can protest by flying a protest flag and informing the other boat at the first reasonable opportunity. The race committee will then investigate the protest and make a ruling.

Here are some resources to help you get started

• Online Class: Sail Theory & Upwind Trim This online course provides a fundamental understanding of the forces behind upwind sailing as well plus advanced techniques that balance the angle of attack, sail depth, and the twist of your main and jib in order to optimize speed and pointing in all conditions.
• Seminar: Racing Tactics This in-person seminar will teach the strategy and tactics you need to turn your speed into a podium finish. Starts, upwind, downwind, mark rounding: With top instructors and refined curriculum you’ll learn techniques to improve your game all the way around the course.
• On The Water Clinic: Regatta Experience These events combine training and racing with coaching every step of the way. The clinics cover every facet of regatta success: Strategic planning, tactical positioning, starting, boat speed, trim, helming, boat handling – everything!

So, how do I bring my entire family up to speed so that we are winning Wednesday night races in our marina? Lately, we have been racing any other boat that is out on the water. Sure, those other boats have no clue that we are racing. However, when the three of us are sailing together, we are slowly attempting to go faster. This is a foreign concept to a couple of us as we don’t usually focus on trimming the sails but we have found the ride becoming smoother, and we are covering a lot more distance on our day sails.

The best advice I have been given about starting to learn how to race on a sailboat is quite simple. Practice. Practice makes a big difference. As of late, I am adjusting the outhaul, I am checking the boom vang, and I am keeping an eye on the traveler.  While my day sails have become busier, I am starting to see the value in wanting to occasionally be a racer.

Son 1, the kid with great taste in food. Well, he still watches in disbelief as he spreads his camembert on his crackers, but son two is now getting faster.

Related Posts:

• Learn To Sail
• Mobile Apps
• Online Courses
• Upcoming Courses
• Sailor Resources
• ASA Log Book
• Bite Sized Lessons
• Knots Made Easy
• Catamaran Challenge
• Sailing Vacations
• Sailing Cruises
• Charter Resources
• International Proficiency Certificate
• Find A Charter
• All Articles
• Sailing Tips
• Sailing Terms
• Destinations
• Environmental
• Initiatives
• Instructor Resources
• Become An Instructor
• Become An ASA School
• Member / Instructor Login
• Affiliate Login

Printed 2024 OCS Program Calendar Pre-Orders

$25 each | Pre-Orders Available mid-January

Keep track of everything sailing! This 24-page calendar features OCS race team sailors each month, and details our 2024 program calendar. Everything OCS - from race team practices to regattas to fundraising events - is listed with room for you to add in your own family events.

*Calendars will be printed and ready for pickup/shipping mid-January 2024!