IRC ratings are purchased annually from RORC, and are valid per boat per owner.
The rating is a secret calculation, based mainly upon hull and sail dimensions.
As some of us lucky sailors may have new sails from Santa or even new boats, it is worth checking that everything is correct before paying for a 2016 certificate – it’s expensive to find out later that the sail doesn’t measure up or fit class rules – and several of us have made mistakes in recent years.
- Check that your sailmaker has sent your new sail dimensions to RORC or ISA. Even an ‘identical’ sail will have different measurements. Make sure that these are the figures on your new certificate! For a second hand sail, you need to send the measurements yourself.
- If you have a one design class boat (e.g. Sigma 33, Hunter 707, J24) your sails MUST be the size specified in your class rules ( it may be worth measuring them up if you are not sure) – if not you must provide the actual dimensions and get a new rating that will be different from the One Design rating
- If you have roller reefing, make sure that the overlap on the genoa is at least 130% to claim the roller reefing allowance (Drama Queen can give you chapter and verse on this one!)
- Order your certificate in good time for the season start, and good sailing in 2016!
Happy measuring, and a happy and successful New Year, afloat and ashore !!
CHRISTMAS CROCS SERIES 2015