RSYC Racing - Some Questions & Answers

Do I need to be a member to enter RSYC races?

No - Our normal policy is that RSYC races are 'open' to anyone who is a member of a recognised yacht or sailing club.

Do I need to have racing experience to begin racing with RSYC?

Not necessarily - Providing you and your crew can handle and navigate your boat safely and you know the basic rules of racing. When racing pay special attention to - keeping a good lookout - always keeping your options open - not getting boxed in by other boats etc. (remember, slowing down may be an option). Don't commit to situations where there may be a risk of collision, at least until you are sure who has right of way.

How are typical RSYC races organised?

Most RSYC racing events are started using our Committee boat. They take place in Southampton Water, the Solent as well as further afield. The yachts are split into classes according to the performance of yachts and the handicap system they have entered. Typically there will be a fast and a slow fleet for both IRC and Club handicap. There may also be a multi-hull fleet - so typically there could be up to five classes (or more). Each Class will have a racing pennant assigned, typically Numeral 1 to Numeral 5. Fleets normally start at ten minute intervals. Thursday evening races start at 5 minute intervals. Several times a year, we run special events (such as pursuit races) where different starting systems may be used.

How do I enter RSYC races?

Firstly, you will need to obtain a current handicap for the boat. Most people start by racing in Club Handicap Classes, rather than the more serious IRC classes. See below for details. Fill in an Entry Form for your chosen event and submit it together with payment and handicap paperwork etc. to the Club's Sailing Secretary. If you have any racing related queries, do contact the Sailing Secretary, who may be able to assist you.

How do I obtain an RSYC Handicap?

RSYC Handicaps are extrapolated from information which is generally available about your type of boats and more specifically by the more detailed information which you submit to the handicapping team. The Club provides a Self Measurement Form on which you will be asked to enter as much information as possible about your actual boat. Any supplementary information in the form of old CHS (or IRC) certificates, brochures, performance data or test reports etc. will be most useful to help the handicappers provide a handicap factor for your yacht. There is no charge (other than the race entry fee) for the provision of RSYC Handicaps.

How do I obtain an IRC Handicap?

The more serious racers will need to apply to RORC Rating Office in Lymington for an application form in order to obtain a IRC certificate. The process will involve careful measurement of the boat and its sails and application may be made on line by completing the application form. The RORC Rating office can help in doing this. It is not necessary to have the boat weighed or to use a RORC measurer unless an Endorsed certificate is required. (No RSYC races and very few others in Great Britain require endorsement.) Measurements can be taken by the owner or from any other reasonable source such as the builder's brochure and the sail maker. The Rating Office hold measurements for 1160 standard hull designs. See our Links and Information page, Rules and Rating, on this Website for a link to the RORC Rating Office.

Do I need to make any special insurance arrangements in order to race?

It is important to ensure that your yacht insurance is not invalidated if you take part in organised races. Ensure also that you will have adequate third party insurance as set out in the Club's racing paperwork. (Sailing Secretary will be able to advise). If you take out fully comprehensive cover for racing, do read the small print to ensure that there are no vital exclusions (e.g. mast and rigging) and no claims bonuses etc. are still acceptable.

How do I find out more about racing?

Talk to members who race already - in the Club bar after a race can be a good time. Find out who are better sailors - Ask if you can go out on their yacht as crew for a race - better still, ask if they will come out with you. Racing Sub-Committee members will be able to assist or at least point you in the right direction.

How do I find: - Racing crew or a boat in need of crew?

The Sailing Secretary maintains a list of people who are interested in crewing for racing and cruising. There is also a list of skippers and boats who are looking for crew.