sailboat racing application

Race Master Sail Timer + Speed 4+

The ultimate sailing watch, designed for ipad.

• 4.4 • 95 Ratings
• Offers In-App Purchases

Screenshots

Description.

Everybody knows that catching the start is essential in sailing. Finally there is a great Sailing Watch available for the iPhone and it works great with the Apple Watch. This app provides a timer, speed and course monitoring with unique features and unparalleled ease of use for sail racing. When you hear or see a race signal just press Gun! - You can adjust if it is a 5, 4 or 1 minute warning afterwards! And if it was just a loud noise from a flapping sail and not a race signal you can easily jump back to the previous timer. It defaults to the standard ISAF 5,4,1,0 sequence but it can handle arbitrary countdown from 30 minutes down to 0 Now you can focus on other things like wind (directly in the app - simply configure your own favourite weather on the config page) and other boats potentially giving you yet another edge! ** Please read more on the info "i" page in the app ** You can enable GPS and get Speed over Ground (SOG) and Course over Ground (COG) presented next to the timer to help you keep track of wind and speed in the seconds before and after start. The Wind page shows a graph of COG and SOG which can help you track wind shifts. It is designed to work on iPhone with or without Apple Watch and a lot of people seem to be using it with iPads as well. TIP: On the Watch it is recommended that you (at least temporarily) activate Resume to Last Used App so that you just have to raise your wrist to get the time left: Settings->General->Activate on Wrist Raise->Resume to: Last Used App The iPhone application also contains a convenient reference to starting signals and customisable local weather information. HealthKit integration: The app provides limited HealthKit integration and can optionally start a Sailing Workout activity during race start. Summary of Features: * Simply the best countdown timer ever if you ask us :) * Really good compass! * Most of the feature work on Watch and iPhone. Watch Series 2 needed for GPS without iPhone nearby. * Current Course and Speed Over Ground based on GPS * GPS based distance to line (still being tuned but works - within limits of GPS accuracy) * Speed up / Slow down estimate for time to get to line * History plot of Course and Speed Over Ground that allow you to track wind shifts * Prevalent headings - advanced formula lists common headings to help identify windshifts * Man Over Board function - it shows time, distance and compass bearing to the location the button was pressed (NOTE: intended as a secondary non life critical aid only) * ISAF Race Signals reference - to help settle what that strange flag shown on the race committee means before the race starts... * Choice of Magnetic or True course indication * Lock function to prevent unwanted changes NOTE: Please check the "i" page in the app for more info This app offers 2 in app subscriptions to 1) support continued development and 2) to enable certain features: • Payment will be charged to iTunes Account at confirmation of purchase • Subscription automatically renews unless auto-renew is turned off at least 24-hours before the end of the current period • Account will be charged for renewal within 24-hours prior to the end of the current period, and identify the cost of the renewal • Subscriptions may be managed by the user and auto-renewal may be turned off by going to the user's Account Settings after purchase • Any unused portion of a free trial period, if offered, will be forfeited when the user purchases a subscription to that publication, where applicable Please review our Terms of Service: http://www.kewlanu.com/tos DISCLAIMER: If you enable the GPS feature the app runs in the background for a limited time before it disables GPS. "Continued use of GPS running in the background can dramatically decrease battery life."

Version 4.3.0

Miles per hour? Or meters per second? Now covered! New Live Map page - a bit easier to jump in during racing Fixed an issue with setting initial map location for Location/Race History

Ratings and Reviews

Manually add waypoints.

Is there a way to manually add and store waypoints for future races? Our local clubs have placed permanent marks for racing. I have the gps coordinates and looking for a way to add and save marks then be able to hit a go to function after each rounding. Only Garmin seems to have this ability and it’s so complicated every sailor hates it! Thank you for all your work on this. It really offers a lot of great things.

Developer Response ,

Thank you for your question. I will add a section on this on the info page in the app soon. There are a few options: Race Master understands many variants of the GPX file format and is registered in your phone to support this: you can import a GPX file with marks by tapping on the GPX file and select Race Master. To manually edit coordinates please use the “Edit Marks” page and after e.g. projecting a mark with 0 distance selecting this mark for editing. You can then tap on the blue coordinates to edit. Remember that you can select GPS Coordinates format under settings in app to your preference before editing. You can also consider sharing a mark with others in your club by tapping the share button when reviewing a mark under “Edit Marks”. Please reach out over email if you have further questions.

Phenomenal Potential but…

I used this a couple of years ago so I could count down the time for race starts and it worked well and it was free so expectations matched. Just purchased a silver subscription expecting a distance and time to the line. I also expected to be able to drive by Race Committee boat and pin of the line and ping each end but was surprised to find out those functions were not in my subscription. This is potentially a 5 star app if pinging the line, distance and time to line were included. Unfortunately they are not with silver subscription. Please include those functions and it would be a great inexpensive app for every weekly sail boat racer. I would pay for the gold subscription at $2.99 a month but am afraid I won’t get what I need and it will be too late once I’ve already paid. Therefore, I recommend a 7 day free trial so subscribers can test out the functions before fully committing to paying monthly or quarterly. Again, great potential and a large number of boats with antiquated chart plotters need your app. I look forward to seeing it developed fully.

Thank you for your review! I will add a section on this, meanwhile please ensure you have enabled Location for the app in iPhone Settings and please reach out via email. Stay safe and have fun sailing!

Nice Timer Function; But That’s It

I’ve used the app for timing regatta starts for over a year and was curious about using the other features so upgraded to Gold for a few months and about a dozen races this summer. Unfortunately I found the other features glitchy and unintuitive. For example, if you keep the timer visible to monitor SOG and COG the other features are buried on a separate menu page making it a clumsy process to get to while racing; potentially useful stuff like wind shift and Live Map are hard to read and sometimes don’t show up. There’s no real description or information on a lot of the features or how to use them. For example what is the difference between the Compass feature and the Smart View? And why can’t I use True North instead of magnetic? Dropping marks is also a challenge, the Race History sometimes works sometime not. The Stop Racing process is a joke as is the always on location tracking. Yes I know I can use Siri to do it. But I don’t want to. Honestly, it’s a great feature set, and I tried hard to use the upgraded Gold features but I feel that they were dumped into the app and not rigorously tested on the water in actual regattas. I’m giving Race Master 3 stars since the Timer function is very good and I plan to keep using it, but I cancelled the Gold subscription and cannot currently recommend it.

Thank you for a thoughtful review. The SmartView is intended as a start at trying to address one of the challenges you highlight; it will automatically change view depending on if you are pre-start or not. Under Settings in the app there is a possibility to change the setting for “Magnetic Heading” (when disabled, COG is relative to true north). I’ll keep refining the app, maybe someday it may work better for your needs. ⛵️

App Privacy

The developer, Kewlanu AB , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Not Linked to You

The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Swedish

• Silver $2.99
• App Support
• Privacy Policy

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Race Log Web

Race log pc.

• Getting Started
• Score Methods
• RacelogWeb Blog

-- Racelogweb Blog -- Stay up to date with Racelogweb developments

-- Racelogweb Demos -- Check out our getting started demos on YouTube

Race Log Web is a new sailboat race scoring program.

Web Application. Race Log Web runs on the web in any browser.

Nothing to install . Just visit this site, login, and go.

Mobile Enabled . Score fleets and View result on iPhone, iPad, Android phone or tablet, Windows PC or Mac.

Stored in the Cloud . All your fleet data, fleet results and regatta results are on the web so no worries about misplaced fleet files.

Active Results page allows users select their favorite report layout for fleet and regatta results.

Email Results to Fleet .

Easy Regatta Registration integrated with your own Paypal Account.

Get Started...

• Race Log Web...
• Race Log Blog...
• Racelog Blog
• Public Results...
• -- Browse Results --

The original Race Log is a comprehensive and easy to use One-Design yacht race scoring program for Windows PCs. Easily score individual regattas or a whole season of races, and view your fleet or regatta results.

• 1) regatta registration
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download - shareware version 3.6 with new Windows 7, 10 installer, or purchase - current Pro version 3.8

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8 Tips For the First Time Sailboat Racer

By: Pat Reynolds Learn To Sail , Sailing Fun

Once you get through the ASA 101 course and are beginning to experience sailing in a more second nature sort of way, you may want to challenge yourself to a sailboat race. Racing is a great way to accelerate the learning curve. It mandates all of the lessons into a short amount of time, with the power of consequence as a motivating factor. On a normal round the buoy race sailors are forced to make sail changes, tack , assess the conditions and maximize performance every step of the way. Some don’t care for the pressure it can bring about, but a few sailboat races is great for learning the ropes quickly. Here are eight tips for the first time sailboat racer that will make the challenge a bit more manageable and a little less daunting :

• Choose the right race Ask around and pick a race that’s not ultra competitive. There are always races that are more mellow than others. Choose one that is centered around fun, maybe a benefit regatta or a barbecue race. Allow some time to get ready and view it as a learning goal. Ask a racer along for the ride.
• Ask a racer along for the ride Find an experienced racing friend to crew and be your safety net. Nothing will take the edge off more than having a patient pal along with you to whisper in your ear as you make your way around the course. Lean on him or her as you need, but try to manage as if they were actually just crew.
• Enter non-spin class. Even if your boat has a nice spinnaker and you’ve used it a bunch of times, do the first race without that complication. Depending on what kind of boat you’re sailing you might not have a choice, but if you do, go spinnaker-less for the first couple of times out to get the rules figured out.
• Learn the fundamental rules Sailboat racing is fortunately one of those sports where you don’t have to learn every rule in order to participate, but you do have to know the basics. Check out Peter Isler’s Sailing for Dummies or Getting Started in Sailboat Racing to get up to speed on the absolute must-know rules. Once you have those pretty clear you can get out there and get some on-the-job-training without hurting anyone or spoiling anyone else’s day.

• Read the NORs Make sure you grab the Notice of Race on the website of the hosting club and read it thoroughly. This precious document will tell you lots of important information for game day. It will discuss the course(s), order of starts, communication channel and lots more. Looking at them prior to the race and having a solid understanding of what’s going on is extremely important. Go to the skipper’s meeting.
• Go to the skipper’s meeting Lots of experienced racers might skip the skipper’s meeting for races they’ve done before, but as a newbie, definitely schedule that into the plan. There you can solidify your understanding of the NORs and ask any questions you might have.
• Blow the start If you’ve done everything according to plan up until this point you may feel like you could actually win this thing! That may be so, but don’t push too hard at the start. This is the one place that gets reliably intense – boats are very close to each other and a firm understanding of the rules is on full display. In time you’ll find this is one of the most exciting parts of racing, but in the beginning, watch and learn.
• Follow the leader Once you’re off the start line and there isn’t any fiberglass dangling from your boat, just watch what others are doing and emulate. If you like racing, there will be plenty of time for waxing the fleet, but today just be a copycat. Watch what better sailors do and attempt to understand why they are making these choices. There is arguably no better way to learn than immersion and imitation.

After the last race, the most important lesson of all is revealed – that beer tastes better after a day of racing. It’s a scientific fact – Einstein proved it, but it was never published… Enjoy!

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The best navigation and sailing software available.

Expedition has been used in multiple volvo ocean race, america's cup and grand prix events and is the most advanced and usable software available., official supplier to the volvo ocean race, americas cup, sail gp and many other events., expedition has been in development since the mid 1990s by veteran volvo ocean race navigator and whitbread winner nick white., v12.0.23 available now for windows 11 or 10.

Key Features

Chart-plotter that seamlessly selects, mosaics and rotates charts, advanced weather display and tools, simply the best weather routing available, start display and advanced buoy racing functions, instrument connectivity with all popular instrument systems, other features, system requirements.

Windows 11 or 10. Windows 11 is recommended. Expedition 4D requires OpenGL.

• Yachting World
• Digital Edition

Best navigation apps: 6 top options tested

• November 16, 2021

There are many app options on the market for sailors wishing to navigate from a smartphone of tablet. Bruce Jacobs looks at some of the best navigation apps on the market.

It’s increasingly rare these days to see any sailor without at least one navigation application on their phone, while tablets are even preferred to fixed multifunction displays (MFDs) on an increasing number of yachts. It’s great to have this navigation information so easily to hand and so mobile, but which are the best navigation apps for sailors and how do they compare.

Sailors need slightly different information to motorboaters. It’s nice to know if it’s going to be sunny, but we care more about whether the tide will be foul or fair. We need to know what the wind direction will be and whether it’s going to be an angle we can use, over and above nearby places of interest.

We looked at the most popular navigation apps, particularly from a sailor’s perspective, and highlighted what we think works well for yachting and what is best left to the motorboaters.

The absolute number one benefit of an app is the ability to instantly see where you are, on up-to-date charts, without the cost and immobility of an MFD. Every app we tested has that core functionality and, ultimately, you will get good basic use out of any of them.

Thereafter, to my mind, most of these apps have been developed with the leisure powerboater in mind. They are focused on short day trips under engine or maybe going fishing to fairly well known areas. Wind, tide and current have little impact in these scenarios beyond whether it is sunny or the anchorage is accessible.

Fast and reliable

Having spoken to a range of sailors, it’s clear that the universal requirement is for an app that delivers fast, reliable data within an intuitive interface. We want charts that show sensible levels of detail as we zoom in and out and, critically, will warn us when we need to zoom in more to see dangers that might have been hidden by vector charts.

We then want all the other essential information such as wind and current instantly accessible and able to be overlaid on the chart, and we want to be able to quickly measure distance and bearing to a relevant point.

But despite some decent contenders, the truth is that not one app delivers it all. Adding in extras such as AIS, boat data, autorouting and more is great, but that foundation level functionality should come first.

Savvy Navvy, the newcomer to the world of navigation apps, shows what the modern app could be. It is possibly the only app built with yacht sailors at the forefront and gives easily accessible wind, current and tide overlays to sensibly detailed charts. Its routing algorithm was the only app we tested that accounted for current, and its passage plans mapped out beautifully informative courses to steer.

It also recognises hazards such as tidal races and Traffic Separation Schemes (TSS). But its algorithm is too ambitious in the level of detail it tries to extrapolate from GRIB files and the app took us into dangerous shallows and routed us metres off hazards and lee shores in strong winds.

The app is nearly the absolute game changer it should be – but its programming sophistication has outstripped its seamanship and that’s an issue.

The other apps proved a mix in how suitable they are for sailors. Basic features such as wind and current were not universally available. Also often lacking were tools such as those measuring distance and bearing.

Frustrating menus

I found some of the routing software frustrating as I was made to go through multiple menus to load and select waypoints, rather than just touch two points on the screen. And some of the apps appear to have had data sources and functionality added over time, without the redesign they might then need to bring it all into one easy-to-use interface.

AIS data is a nice new feature, but some apps rely on an internet signal for it – others can link by wifi to your AIS device. Knowing how often internet signal drops on a yacht even close to land, I’m not sure I’d trust the type that doesn’t connect to the onboard AIS.

Crowd sourced data is also an increasingly common addition to the charts. Some love it for adding real time accuracy, but others claim it can be dangerously inaccurate. I suspect both are true so, as with everything, the prudent skipper should treat all information with a healthy dose of caution.

For the best mix of functionality, breadth of data and reliable information, Navionics + remains my app of choice. But if ( and it’s a big if) Savvy Navvy becomes more savvy with its seamanship – it will have everything it needs to revolutionise the sector and become the sailor’s app of choice.

Best Navigation apps for sailors:

C-Map on an iPhone

C-MAP produces my favourite charts, with just the right amount of detail for spot depths, enlarged navigational marks on land and sea and clever colouring. Wind data via GRIB files is easily overlaid and the colour shading system both makes it easy to see predicted wind speeds and discourages the user from trying to extrapolate unrealistic detail.

However, there is no tide and current overlay, which is a frustration for sailors, and it is also a disappointment that there is no satellite imagery overlay. C-MAP’s automatic routing system is fairly easy and intuitive to use but having allowed me to set a minimum depth of 3m, it would then suggest routes that contravened this limit, albeit giving a second option that didn’t. Some caution is therefore required.

Get C-Map app from the Apple App Store Get C-Map app from the Google Play Store

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Read our full C-Map navigation app review

Navionics app on a phone

Navionics Boating app

This app is intuitive and easy to use. Charts are quick to render and auto zooming of detail is probably best in class. Text is used to good effect and tells you when you need to zoom in to get more information about hazards (one of the dangers of vector charts). Arrows showing current are animated to show strength, direction and whether the tide is on the ebb or flood. Frustratingly, you have to access a different window to get GRIB/wind data, when it should surely just be an option on screen.

The Navionics Sonar option allows charts to be adapted to show depths based on real time user data from thousands of vessels, but the company sensibly warns that many other factors (such as barometric pressure) will have a considerable affect on depths.

Get Navionics+ app from the Apple App Store Get Navionics+ app from the Google Play Store

Read our full Navionics + navigation app review

Savvy Navvy app on desktop or tablet

Savvy Navvy

Savvy Navvy is a sophisticated app with all the key information ready to be switched on or off at your fingertips. It is the only app that has a routing algorithm that has inputs for wind and current (although bizarrely not leeway) and then plots a beautifully drawn course to steer. It is useful to be able to enter later or earlier departure times and see the impact on wind and tide.

Charts are a little light on detail for my liking – my sense being that artistic merit has slightly usurped navigational utility. A bigger issue with Savvy Navvy is that the sophistication of the programming for its route planning has not been matched by that of the seamanship. It extrapolates impossibly detailed wind patterns from the GRIB data and uses performance polars that cannot be adjusted – both of which make the plans interesting to look at but of little practical use.

Get Savvy Navvy app from the Apple App Store Get Savvy Navvy app from the Google Play Store

Read our full Savvy Navvy navigation app review

Seapilot app on a phone

This app is based on some features of the professional ECDIS charting systems and in many ways has some of the best features – but while some will not agree, personally I found it unintuitive to use.

The significant issue, however, is that the autozoom on its charting detail just doesn’t work in many regions. Until I zoomed in to a small area (maybe five square miles) there was so much clutter on the screen that there was not much that could be done. Even when zoomed in, information about navigational marks would often be overlaid on spot depths, making both impossible to read. Seapilot acknowledges that some regions suffer from this as an issue due to the use of ECDIS data and hopes to rectify it going forward.

The app also uses ECDIS warning symbols for some hazards, which leisure sailors won’t be familiar with.

Get Seapilot app from the Apple App Store Get Seapilot app from the Google Play Store

Read our full Seapilot navigation app review

isailor featues nice wind colouring

iSailor is another app that works well as an extension to your boat’s onboard systems. It will connect to the NMEA system and internet AIS, although each feature you unlock costs money. The alarms menu is comprehensive, including anchor drag, waypoint proximity, loss of GPS signal and a low battery warning.

Charts were fairly good, but as with Seapilot, I had issues with the auto detail of the chart at various zoom levels and had data overlaid on each other. I also found that at certain levels of zoom, key data such as spot depth was removed, but too soon for my liking. If I want to plan 2-3 miles ahead I want to see clear depth data, not just coloured contours.

Get iSailor app from the Apple App Store Get iSailor app from the Google Play Store

Read our full iSailor navigation app review

iNavx on a phone

iNavX can be frustrating to use at first because there is so much to customise that it can be tough to get into. Persevere, however, and you’ll find a good app. It has a range of chart options including Navionics, C-MAP and NOAA. They partner with Waterway Guides, which gives micro level detail for marinas and other facilities, although the UK version is yet to arrive.

While all the information is there, I didn’t find interrogation of chart data as easy as, say, the Navionics app, but this may just be personal preference. I also found building and adjusting routes frustrating. There is a very comprehensive manual that can be accessed and a range of excellent YouTube instructional videos – but honestly, I’d rather just be able to work it out quickly and easily on the app.

Get iNavx app from the Apple App Store Get iNavx app from the Google Play Store

Read our full iNavx navigation app review

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Introduction to Sailboat Racing [Rules and Classes Explained]

True, when you first witness a sailboat race, you might believe it’s too confusing and chaotic (it can be both). But, like with anything new, you may ease into it gradually. This is intended to allow you to take several actions at once.

Racing a sailboat is a lot of fun. It blends the excitement of sailing your own boat with the raw rivalry of trying to beat another boat of comparable size. Racing also teaches you boat handling and sail trim in a manner that cruising cannot: by comparing your speed and handling to those of other boats.

Let us jump into the article to learn more about sailboat racing.

Basic Insights Into Sailboat Racing

Sailboat racing may be separated into three parts: start , headwind , and tailwind . During a sailboat race, it is important to ensure that the beginning of the race must be strong. The start determines the overall outcome of the race and thus is considered very crucial for the race. It brings great advantage to the competitor and this is often very underrated.

As soon as the countdown is complete, it is necessary to make sure that the competitor has crossed the starting line effectively. Generally, warnings are given at 5mins and subsequently at 4mins and 1min .

Another very important aspect to consider is the path . The competitor must be able to determine a clear path to sail through and the direction of the race course must also be perceived correctly to ensure a favorable outcome. Free lanes enable the competitor with ideal angles to the wind with which they can easily navigate without having to go against disturbed wind or wind shadows from rival boats.

The Starting Line

Oftentimes, the first leg of the race will be upwind, after the starting line is crossed. At this point again, it is important to note that starting strong is crucial for an upwind race as more free lanes are accessible the further ahead the competitor is in the convoy.

The necessary determinants to be noted and kept in consideration throughout the race for effective upwind sailing strategies are the following factors: wind direction, wind speed, and rivals. But the last aspect can be tricky as everyone’s goal is ultimately to win.

Competitors need to base their choices for sailing downwind on the same findings, but with a few minor variations. Being at the forefront and tagged by rivals can be seen as a mode of suffering when the competitor must keep sailing in the wind shadows of all the boats behind. Here, there’s an advantage to be thought of if the competitor can position themselves at the rear. Any lane can be chosen at proper intervals to make up for the lost ground.

However, usually, down winds result in shorter wins and losses than up winds . This is because there is less transverse separation during down winds when compared to up winds.

Different Types of Sail Racing Classes

Sailboat racing can be done in different ways. Each race lasts for about 45min to 1hr and is conducted on a course marked by buoys mounted by the racing committee. One can also take part in “ distance races “. In this case, the “ natural ” surroundings will typically provide the race course.

‍The points of sail during the race depend on the predominant wind direction factors on the day of the race, which is the other major variation besides the length. While racing on the course, the race committee places the buoys in such a manner that the race course is adapted to the wind , this mostly enables the competitors to accurately identify which sail has to be deployed for the upcoming leg .

At the race course and during the distance races, the sailboats that participate are usually of various types and are commonly very diverse. As a result, the organizing committee frequently employs intricate “ handicap ” mechanisms to even out variations across boat types . The system is often country-based and it has been developed based on the most common types of boats in a country. The RC , ORC , and IRC systems are the most widely used on an international scale .

These systems compute a factor that should be multiplied by the exact time required to sail one nautical mile using complex formulas . They are based on the dimensions of the boat’s length, weight, sail size, types, and design of the boat along with the materials used .

To find the adjusted race time that can be used to compare with other competitors, this f actor is multiplied by the amount of time it took you to complete the race and the distance of the race .

It is very necessary to remember that these systems are not entirely accurate and they cannot be completely relied on. They can only be used to a certain extent for performance comparison . Hence it is advised that one must compete in races where the competing boats are similar to accurately assess the racing skills of the competitor.

Main Rules in Sailboat Racing

These races are administered and authorized by the International Racing Rules of Sailing . It lays down rules and safety measures to sail safely across the race course along with the entire fleet, whose goal is to sail successfully during the race as well.

A rulebook is laid down with fundamental rules providing explanations and specimens about ensuring how to maintain and regulate according to the laws during a variety of circumstances that can arise between competing sailboats during the course of the race.

The most fundamental rule is that vessels with their starboard side windward must give way to vessels with their port side windward . This implies that the port-tack boat must either tack or bear away to pass behind the stern of the starboard-tack boat when two boats on opposite tacks come together . The leeward boat always has the right of way over the windward boat when there are two boats on the same tack.

Although this is the case, it is essential to note that the boat with the right of way must always ensure to leave other sailboats adequate space and time to avoid collision and accidents . While trying to maintain contact with other competitors, one must be very safe and secure as a significant level of rule interpretation can be enforced.

Violation of any rule can cause you to self-forfeit from the race . Hence it is advised to make amends and surrender upon having committed a conscious foul. Most admitted fouls are looked over following a penalty turn of 360 degrees or 720 degrees . Sailing instructions can be seen as a guide in all circumstances to find more detailed information about the same. A few rules can also be helpful when it comes to knowing what to be worn during the race apart from obvious determinants like the weather and climate conditions.

Main Equipment Used In Sailboat Racing

The sport of sailing is generally very physically taxing and hence requires e xtraordinary energy throughout the course of the race especially while rounding marks and sailing downwind.

When the atmospheric temperature falls due to wind-chill effects , it makes much colder winds frequently. In such circumstances, making use of a windproof outer layer will guard against the wind chill and this material is also breathable . Such measures must be ensured to avoid being cold and clammy. Wearing boots can also ensure to keep yourself warm and comfortable.

Looking into the technical aspects , sailboats need to ensure they are fully equipped with communication and navigation devices such as VHF, GPS, Sat Phones , and so on.

Different Types Of Sailboat Races

Sailboat racing is a diverse and dynamic sport that encompasses a wide range of different race types , each with its own unique rules, tactics, and strategies . Understanding the different types of sailboat races is crucial for sailors looking to compete at a high level and succeed in this exciting sport.

One of the most common types of sailboat racing is fleet racing, which involves a large number of sailboats competing in a single race. In fleet racing, the sailboats start together and sail a predetermined course, with the first boat to cross the finish line being declared the winner. Fleet racing often requires a high degree of tactical maneuvering, as sailors must navigate around other boats and adjust their tactics to account for wind shifts and other factors.

Another popular type of sailboat racing is match racing, which involves two sailboats competing head-to-head in a series of races. In match racing, the emphasis is on tactical maneuvering and outsmarting your opponent, rather than simply being the fastest boat on the course. Match racing typically involves a complex set of rules and regulations governing how boats can interact with each other on the course, and sailors must be highly skilled at reading wind shifts, controlling their boats, and outmaneuvering their opponents.

Team racing is another type of sailboat racing that involves multiple sailboats competing against each other in a team format. In team racing, each team consists of multiple boats, and the team with the best overall performance across all of its boats is declared the winner. Team racing often requires a high degree of coordination and strategy, as sailors must work together to achieve a common goal and coordinate their tactics to maximize their chances of success.

In addition to these main types of sailboat racing, there are also a variety of specialized race types that are popular in different parts of the world . For example, ocean racing involves sailing across the open ocean over long distances and requires a high degree of skill and endurance. Inshore racing , on the other hand, takes place in protected bays and harbors and often involves short, fast races with frequent wind shifts and other challenges.

Regardless of the type of sailboat racing, one thing remains constant: the need for skilled and experienced sailors who can navigate their boats through a wide range of conditions and challenges. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a beginner just getting started, mastering the different types of sailboat racing can be a highly rewarding and exhilarating experience, and can lead to a lifetime of excitement and adventure on the water.

Classes Of Sailboats Commonly Used In Racing

Sailboat racing is a highly competitive and dynamic sport that encompasses a wide range of different classes of sailboats, each with its own unique characteristics, strengths, and weaknesses. Understanding the different classes of sailboats used in racing is crucial for sailors looking to compete at a high level and succeed in this exciting sport.

One of the most common classes of sailboats used in racing is the dinghy , which is a small, lightweight boat typically sailed by one or two people. Dinghies are highly maneuverable and responsive and can be sailed in a wide range of conditions, from light winds to strong breezes. Popular dinghy classes include the Laser , the 420 , and the Optimist , each of which has its own unique rules and specifications.

Keelboats are another popular class of sailboats used in racing, and are typically larger and heavier than dinghies, with a fixed keel that helps to provide stability and control. Keelboats come in a wide range of sizes and designs, from small one-design boats like the J/24 to larger performance-oriented boats like the TP52. Keelboats are often sailed by a crew of several people and require a high degree of coordination and teamwork to sail effectively.

Multihulls are another popular class of sailboats used in racing and are characterized by their multiple hulls providing greater speed and stability than traditional monohull sailboats. Multihulls come in a variety of different designs and sizes, from small catamarans to large trimarans , and are typically sailed by a crew of several people. Multihulls can be highly competitive and exciting to sail, but also require a high degree of skill and experience to handle effectively.

In addition to these main classes of sailboats, there are also a variety of specialized classes that are popular in different parts of the world. For example, in Australia and New Zealand, the 18-foot skiff is a highly competitive and popular class of sailboats, characterized by its large sail area and high speed. In Europe, the Dragon is a classic one-design keelboat that has been popular for decades and is known for its elegant design and excellent performance.

Regardless of the specific class of sailboats used in racing, one thing remains constant : the need for skilled and experienced sailors who can navigate their boats through a wide range of conditions and challenges . Whether you’re racing a dinghy, a keelboat, a multihull, or some other type of sailboat, mastering the unique characteristics and challenges of your boat is key to achieving success on the water.

To become a successful sailboat racer , it’s important to not only master the technical skills needed to sail your boat effectively , but also to develop a deep understanding of the rules, tactics, and strategies that govern sailboat racing . By immersing yourself in the world of sailboat racing and learning from experienced sailors, you can build the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this exciting and challenging sport.

In conclusion, participating in a race can be very enjoyable in both cases. The first case is where someone is learning the art of sailing or like in the second case where one could be trying to gain some prior expertise on the sea.

If winning the race is one’s main aim then the key thing to remember is to make sure that you tack at the right moments. To trim the sails to completely catch the wind and last but not least, to communicate well with the rest of the crew.

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I worked as an officer in the deck department on various types of vessels, including oil and chemical tankers, LPG carriers, and even reefer and TSHD in the early years. Currently employed as Marine Surveyor carrying cargo, draft, bunker, and warranty survey.

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Sailboat Race Analysis – Improve Performance with Data

Ever get the feeling that the casual post-race conversation doesn’t tell the whole story about race performance? Ever wished you had solid data to focus your improvement plan? Race analysis may be part of the solution. In this article we review the benefits and costs of race analysis and recommend a tool for sailing schools, smaller yacht clubs, and amateur fleets.

Race Analysis – Worth the Effort and Cost

Few yacht clubs or sailing schools have made a sustained effort to reap the benefits of race analysis. Companies like Kattack and RaceQs have started up but are not growing. Does this mean that the benefits aren’t worth the effort and cost? We believe the benefits of race analysis ARE worth the effort and cost for anyone moderately serious about improvement.

Clearly, race analysis data is valuable, since Olympic sailors use it regularly in training. With raw data alone, you can compare distance sailed, boat speed, velocity made good (VMG), and sailing angles. With a little further analysis, you can evaluate boat handling and strategy, including starting performance, tacking efficiency, time on the lifted tack, and time spent sailing in more breeze. Imagine the benefit of knowing how your tacks measure up to others or how much less distance the race winner sailed. 

Effort and Cost

We shy away from many tasks because we think they will be too hard. You can’t do race analysis without some effort, but the effort is manageable. The key is to use a central support person, who can develop an efficient process to collect and analyze the data. While not free, the cost for our recommended race analysis tool is quite reasonable. With the right choices, we think many organizations will find the benefits are well worth the effort and cost.

Race Analysis Tools

We found nine online services that host your GPS tracks, display the race, and crunch data for post-race analysis. We did not include on-board devices or apps for use during the race. We then narrowed the list based on the following criteria:

• Cost. We looked for low-cost or free tools suitable for local sailing schools, smaller yacht clubs, or amateur fleets.
• Capability. We looked for tools that provide enough data to be useful, including boat speed, VMG, distance sailed, and headings for each boat throughout the race.
• Viability. Since many tools spring up and then wither away, we looked for current users and technical support, as evidenced by recent races posted and recent software updates.

Tools Reviewed

• TackTracker . Australian company with nine years of history and a currently-active customer base with U.S. clients. The application is geared to support individual sailors, coaches, and clubs running regattas. Good capability and relatively low cost. This is our recommended service for local sailing schools, smaller yacht clubs, or amateur fleets.
• SAP Sailing Analytics . International company supporting large events. Capability id high. Cost is likely to be prohibitive for small organizations.
• RaceQs . Silicon Valley company with several years of history. High level of capability and low cost. However, there are very few recent races posted and the website’s forum has many requests for support that appear to have gone unanswered.
• Kattack  Minnesota company with 11 years of history. Capability adequate, although race reports can’t be downloaded. Its current user base has only three organizations uploading races in 2018. Last update to app was in 2015. Cost is relatively high.
• I-Sail . Netherlands company, with mostly Dutch users. Appears to be slightly lower quality than other sites.
• Map My Tracks . Supports a variety of sports. Recent sailing events are all overseas. Could not view race replays.
• GeoRacing . Supports a variety of sports. Focused on displays for events and does not appear to support analysis. Primarily used overseas. Cost is likely to be high.
• TracTrac . Has capability and is current. Primarily used overseas, with limited U.S. users. Appears to have been tried by U.S. Sailing Team in 2015-2016, with no recent use by them. Race replays would not load to our computer. Cost is likely to be high.
• SailRacer . Has capability and is current, but is primarily used in the UK and focuses on the larger goals of helping clubs manage events.  

Tack Tracker Review

Based on our criteria, we believe that TackTracker (TT) is the best service for local sailing schools, smaller yacht clubs, or amateur fleets.

TT accepts tracks from GPS data loggers, live GPS trackers (with SIM cards), and smartphones. The web or PC player displays the tracks with plenty of data, viewable in chart form or downloadable reports. The tool is easy to use, allowing a designated manager perform all functions. Cost is not free, but reasonable, especially using data loggers.

Tracking Devices

Logging trackers.

If you don’t need live tracking and don’t mind uploading the GPS tracks manually, this is the least expensive way to go. Using loggers makes it easy for the sailors, avoids using personal cell phones, and eliminates any questions about improper use of displays during races. Battery life is advertised at 40 hours. Drawbacks are initial cost and some hands-on involvement by the organizer to assign identification to each tracker, recover the devices following racing, and manually upload data.

Live Trackers

TT supports GPS trackers that upload data automatically using a SIM card and data plan. Live trackers eliminate manual uploading and allow users to view races live in the cloud. Battery life is advertised at about 20 hours.

Smart Phones

TT supports Android and iOS smartphones with a free app. The phone user can delegate management of the tracking for account and race setup. Smartphones reduce initial cost, require less hands-on management, and allow you to view races and data live in the cloud. However, battery life may be an issue for longer events, along with concern about using personal phones and possible misuse of displays during races.   

• Distance sailed
• Speed over ground (avg, max, min)
• Deviation from course bearing on each tack
• VMG to course and wind
• Number of tacks
• TT reports include all the analytical data in both table and chart format. Chart format is useful for comparing time and speed loss during tacks. Reports can be downloaded to spreadsheets for further analysis and dissemination.

Ease of use

To track races a manager performs the following tasks. A current TT user reports that these tasks are not difficult or time-consuming.

• Tracker setup: One-time task to input sailor name and other simple information.  
• Tracker start: Done by manager before going on the water or delegated to the sailor.
• Upload tracks: Manager or assistant uploads logger data manually following racing. Live tracker and smartphone upload data automatically.
• Race analysis: Reports and charts are easy to obtain and manipulate in spreadsheets.

Organizing, viewing and sharing data

The TT cloud allows you to manage your races and view races from other users. Functions include:

• Watch online races published by you or others
• Watch live track in the web player
• Set up and manage a home page
• Manage who can watch your races

Users can view races by the following methods, without an account or password.

• View live locally, via a PC using the TT software. This requires that the sailors use live trackers or smart phones with internet connections.
• View recorded races on the cloud or directly from a PC.  The cloud player requires no software installation. The PC player or mobile device players use a free download and provide more sophisticated analytics.

TT also offers a club regatta license to manage and display races during regattas.

TT has nine years of history and a large current user base with U.S. clients. TT made software updates in 2018.  

Logged tracking

• Logger purchase per unit (one time) – $130, pouch $7 through TT. Also available from other suppliers. 
• Logged tracking license for manager (one time) – $70
• Race reports license for manager (one time) – $55

Live tracking

• Live tracker purchase per unit (one-time) – $210 from TT ($120-$135 from Amazon), SIM card – $10, pouch $7
• Tracker license per unit (one year) – $36. TT will provide a one-year license for each unit with the purchase of the MT90G tracker.
• Data plan per unit (monthly) – $6-$20. Purchase separately through a wireless carrier.
• Smartphone as tracker – must purchase tracker rights at $36/year per phone unit.

Related Content:

Sail, Race and Win: Take A Serious Approach to Improvement Using a Race Compass: When and How

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Home  Competition  Rules/Officiating  Race Officers

Rules/Officiating

Race officers, race officers are responsible for.

• Choosing courses to give competitors the best possible races
• Adjusting the course in response to changing conditions
• Starting and finishing the fleet
• Scoring the event
• Ensuring the safety of competitors and the race committee

Personal Attributes of Race Officials

Because race officials play an important role in ensuring the fairness and quality of competition, racing sailors and US Sailing expect a high level of personal integrity and judicial temperament of certified race officials. To learn more about standards of personal conduct for race officials and how they are evaluated, please click on the button below.

US SAILING'S PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES STANDARDS FOR RACE OFFICIALS

A complete listing of Race Officer Seminars and other educational offerings can be found on the Race Officer Seminar Calendar . First-time applicants for each certification level must take a standard seminar; applicants for re-certification at their current level may substitute Continuing Education offerings.

Please note that all race officers must submit an application for recertification at the end of their four-year appointment. Passing a test does not result in automatic recertification.

Find a Seminar

The goals of the Race Officer Certification program are:

• To make racing more enjoyable by improving the quality of race management
• To standardize race management practices for the benefit of competitors and members of the race committee
• To identify qualified active race officers and make them available to event organizers
• To provide structured training and continuing education for race officers

The program has three levels: Club, Regional and National

In addition to providing evidence of practical experience, participants in the program must attend approved educational offerings and demonstrate their knowledge of race management rules and procedures by passing a test at least once every four years.

Appointments are for renewable four-year terms and end on December 31 of the fourth year of certification. US Sailing membership is required.

Applicants for certification and all certified race officers must record their race management activities in SOARS, US Sailing’s online reporting system. If you need assistance using SOARS, please review the documentation on the SOARS site or contact your Area Race Officer.

Applications

Applications for all race officer appointments are available on the Certification Forms page of the US Sailing website.

Application for Certification 

REQUEST A BACKGROUND CHECK

Club Race Officer

A Club Race Officer is expected to be able to properly run any race normally conducted at his or her local sailing organization, including organizing the race committee, writing sailing instructions and scoring the event.

The certified Club Race Officer program is administered within each US Sailing geographic area by the Area Race Officer . The Area Race Officer may certify an applicant as a Club Race Officer when all of the material necessary for certification has been received. Please download the PDF below for a list of certification requirements.

CRO Certification Requirements

Regional Race Officer

A Regional Race Officer is expected to be able to go anywhere in his or her Area and serve as the principal race officer with any race committee to properly run any race or regatta normally conducted in that Area, including regional championship events. This includes organizing the event and the race committee, writing correct sailing instructions and completing the scoring.

Applications for Regional Race Officer are considered first by the Area Race Officers Working Group (AROWG) and then by the Race Management Committee (RMC). Please download the PDF below for a list of certification requirements.

RRO Certification Requirements

National Race Officer

A National Race Officer is expected to be able to go anywhere in the country and serve as the principal race officer or race management consultant with any race committee to properly run any race or regatta, including national championship events. This includes organizing the event and the race committee, writing correct notices of race and sailing instructions and completing the scoring.

Applications for National Race Officer are considered first by the AROWG and then by the RMC. Please download the PDF below for a list of certification requirements.

NRO Certification Requirements

Additional Information about Regional and National Race Officer Certification

In addition to the specific technical requirements for each level of certification, both the AROWG and RMC are responsible for ensuring that applicants have sufficient depth and breadth of experience and demonstrated leadership, teamwork and relationship skills to be able to go anywhere in the area being applied for and manage any regatta likely to be held in that area. The requirements stated here are the minimum required for certification.

In addition to providing his or her endorsement of the candidate, the ARO must present to the AROWG and RMC evidence that the applicant meets the requirements and possesses these skills. This is done by consulting the references listed on the application, other race officials, competitors and event organizers who are familiar with the applicant’s work and researching regattas in the applicant’s SOARS record.

Out-of-Venue Events: An out-of-venue event is one for which a race official travels a significant distance from his or her home venue to a distinct body of water and works:

• With an unfamiliar organizing authority and race management team
• With a different group of competitors and/or boats
• In conditions different from those of his or her home waters
• For National Race Officer candidates, an out-of-venue location should be in a different region of the country; at a minimum it must be far enough from home to require an overnight stay.

The intent of this requirement is to ensure that a race officer candidate has both the technical and people skills to work successfully with a variety of volunteers, competitors and boats in a variety of conditions. Because venues vary widely within regions and around the country, the candidate’s ARO will have discretion when determining what qualifies as an out-of-venue event.

Additional Policy Information:

For further information on the following Race Officer certification policies, please download the PDF below:

• Additional References and Program Modifications
• Testing and Retesting Policies
• Reviews of Certification Decisions
• Personal Conduct of Race Officers
• Seminar Instructors
• World Sailing (WS) Race Officer Program

Additional Policy Information

The Area Race Officers Working Group and Race Management Committee meet quarterly to consider applications for Regional Race Officer and National Race Officer certifications and renewals:

Area Race Officers (AROs)

Aros are the race officer administrators in each of us sailing’s areas..

The ARO is responsible for encouraging and guiding members who wish to take a race officer course, become certified or recertified, or upgrade their certification level. AROs also help organizers recruit race officers for their events, place race officers at events, schedule training seminars and answer race management-related questions from members.

For more information about race officers and race management, please contact your ARO, who is identified by his or her Area in the table below.

Race Management Committee

The race management committee:.

• develops, supports and certifies race officers within the U.S.
• maintains the training and testing programs for certification.
• assists sailing organizations in obtaining qualified race officers for events.
• provides support and advice on the roles and conduct of race officers at US Sailing events.
• investigates complaints against race officers.
• submits candidates for approval by the Board as nominees for World Sailing International Race Officers.

Race Management Committee Meeting Minutes

Race Management Committee NEWSLETTERS

Race Officer Training and Certification Working Group

The role of the Race Officer Training and Certification Subcommittee is to develop and maintain the Race Officer training program, and communicate the procedures for certification in print or electronically on its website.

The Subcommittee also appoints instructors to teach its one-day and Advanced (two-day) race management seminars. These seminars are a part of US Sailing’s race officer training and certification programs. People are appointed as instructors based on their level of race officer certification, demonstrated capability and experience as instructors and willingness to serve.

Basic & Advanced Race Officer Seminars

• The Race Management seminars below are listed in chronological order.
• For more information about the offering, please click Enroll Now.
• For information about scheduling a seminar, please visit Organize a Seminar .
• For further assistance, please contact your Area Race Officer or the Race Administration office .

FIRST TIME PARTICIPANTS : Attendance at a seminar and successful completion of the online test alone do not lead to certification. If you are interested in becoming a Race Officer, please review our Certification Program for the complete list of requirements. With the assistance of your Area Race Officer, you will be guided through the certification process. Thank you for  your interest in and support of racing.

TO TRANSFER TO A DIFFERENT SESSION:

• Log in to your US Sailing account here:  MyUSSailing
• Select the  My Certs and Courses  tab from the options on the left, then click the transfer link.
• Confirm transfer

Course transfers are not available within the week of the course start.

Let us know if you would like to be put on a list so we may contact you when a Race Management Seminar becomes available. Contact List 

Seminar Calendar

PARTICIPATED IN A SEMINAR? PLEASE COMPLETE   OUR SEMINAR EVALUATION.

Materials for Race Officers

Forms, diagrams, equipment and other items useful in race management.

Forms, Diagrams, Equipment and Other Items Useful in Race Management - Designed to provide useful Race Management Committee “tools” used in the administration and running of races. An example of a “tool” is a piece of equipment, a useful form, a publication, a set of graphics for courses or flags, or any other “tool” that somebody has found especially useful and has the potential for wide application.

Forms & Diagrams 

RACING RULES OF SAILING

Appendices KG & LG - NoR & SI Templates

Scoring Programs

2021-2024 hearing request Form

The NEW HEARING REQUEST FORM replaces the front page of the former PROTEST FORM to be used by competitors to file protests, redress requests, and requests to reopen a hearing.

2021-2024 hearing Decision Form

The NEW HEARING DECISION FORM replaces the back page of the former PROTEST FORM and is only for use by the Protest Committee.

Andrew Clouston SVP Programs & Services Email Andrew Clouston

Matthew Hill Race Administration Director Email Matthew Hill 401-342-7948

Judie McCann Race Administration Coordinator Email Judie McCann 401-342-7945

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