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GUIDELINES FOR MEMBER YACHT CLUBS
HOSTING ECSA OFFSHORE CIRCUIT RACES
The ECSA Offshore Committee has set the following recommendations and guidelines:
RACE RESULTS
1) Each club, immediately after the conclusion of its race shall forward a copy of the scratch sheet and results sheet, including all starters, DNF, and DSQ, signed by the Principle Race Officer to the ECSA circuit scorer.
2) Each Club shall mail or email race results to all entrants.
3) This signature will also confirm that race results are being or have been mailed to all participants. Failure to report race results as well as a poorly organized or run race may result in the suspension of that race from the ECSA sanctioned category for the following season.
RATINGS
ECSA has established PHRF/LONG ISLAND SOUND for handicapping ECSA offshore races. Only races sailed under PHRF will be scored in the Offshore Racing Circuit. A Time Correction Factor has been included with all PHRF/LIS issued certificates. It is recommended that this TCF be used in Time on Time calculations.
CLASSIFICATION
We think that following the ECSA ORC classes as closely as practicable to provide consistency in competition throughout the season is important for host clubs. To speed this up the ORC has reduced the minimum class size to three yachts. This will allow smaller classes with a reasonable PHRF rating spread. We should note that most skippers prefer this to having larger classes with a wide rating spread. Regular competition among the established classes will provide more meaningful season results. Obviously the sponsoring race committee will make the most equitable classification that it can given the turnout for a particular race.
NON SPINNAKER CLASS
Non-Spinnaker Class is a part of the Offshore Circuit. We hope that member clubs will satisfy the interest in this type of racing to the greatest degree practicable. The intent to run this class should be stated in the First Notice. Consideration should be given to a shorter course or one with a minimum of beats for this class. In case of too few entries to start this class host clubs should notify entrants several days before cancellation or start them with another class.
TROPHIES
One of the drawbacks of smaller classes for host clubs is the cost of trophies. Most skippers prefer simple trophies as the achievement of winning is more important than the tangible symbol.
HOSPITALITY
Please try to provide mooring arrangements for boats that are traveling to participate in your race.
ENTRY FEES AND PARTY TICKETS
There is concern among some entrants regarding the cost of race registration. Most skippers are providing party tickets for their entire crew and the cost of a season's campaign is considerable. Please consider these factors when establishing race fees.
COURSES
A variety of courses provided the prevailing conditions are considered. Windward-leeward courses are generally preferred with lengths of 10 to 15 miles.
1) Every effort should be made to ensure equal legs of beat, reach, and run.
2) Races should be configured so that they can be shortened if conditions deteriorate.
3) Races should be conducted IN WATERS NAVIGABLE BY ALL PARTICIPANTS. If hazards exist stand-off marks should be used.
4) Races should not start before 11:00 a.m. (before the prevailing breeze).
5) The race shall be run by a U.S. Sailing certified Club Race Officer.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR SAILORS
PARTICIPATING IN ECSA OFFSHORE RACING CIRCUIT
1. Annual membership in ECSA is required to enter the Offshore Racing Circuit.
2. PHRF Rating Certificates shall be updated annually. Forms will be mailed promptly to you upon receipt of the completed membership form and payment. PHRF and Membership can be completed on the ECSA website at www.ECSA.net
3. Membership in ECSA ORC also requires US Sailing membership. All racing sailors are strongly urged to be members of the National Authority that guides and protects our sport. ECSA trophies will not be awarded to non-members of US Sailing.
4. Read the following circuit regulations carefully. Violation of the regulations may void your score.
5. You may concurrently participate in the circuit for point standings and in qualifying races for the National Offshore Championship. Check the appropriate boxes on the membership form for Spinnaker, Non Spinnaker, and qualifying races for National Offshore Championship. Six races are required to qualify for the circuit, five races to qualify for the National Championship, five races to qualify for Non Spinnaker division. Non-Spinnaker boats are not scored in the circuit overall.
When entering races:
6. Fill out the race entry form completely (provided in this book) and attach your PHRF certificate copy. If you are entering Non-spinnaker, indicate so on each race entry form.
7. Enclose a check for the correct amount made out to the sponsoring club.
8. Enter early. A deluge of entries on closing day is hard on the Race Committee.
9. A copy of your current PHRF certificate MUST accompany each entry.
10. Respect the fact that you are a guest of the host yacht club. Know the rules and race fair. Ensure the proper conduct of your crew on the course and at the shore events. Show your appreciation to the Race Committees - they work very hard and deserve recognition.
11. Races will be scored only when your current PHRF certificate is recorded with the Chief Handicapper.
NATIONAL OFFSHORE CHAMPIONSHIP
The Lloyd Phoenix National Offshore Championship allows teams from across the nation to compete at one venue. In 2009 the Championship will be held on in Annapolis hosted by the U. S. Naval Academy Sailing Squadron on September 25 - 27. To qualify, you must race in at least five circuit races prior to August 17th. Scoring and throw outs are as per circuit procedure. Bonus points do not apply to these calculations. Non-Spinnaker boats cannot participate.
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