New Racing Divisions: An idea from Darryl Starkey
Darryl Starkey, Friday, 21 November 2008NEW RACING DIVISIONS
At KYC our racing fleet is split into two divisions - Division 1 for racing yachts and Division 2 for slower racing yachts and cruising yachts. For our twilight series and the ladies race day (including single and double handed), the use of spinnakers is not permitted.
Not all insurance policies include full racing cover but some have limited racing cover provided spinnakers are not permitted in the race. Full racing cover costs a good deal more (up to 25/30%). Consequently those sailors with limited insurance cover and those that choose not to use spinnakers can really only race in twilights or on ladies day.
It has been suggested that some other clubs divide their racing divisions differently to accommodate this apparent need with a division for “Classic and Cruising yachts” where spinnakers are not permitted.
If we wanted to go down this path then it seems a simple matter of adding a division and we end up with Division 1, Division 2 and Classic and Cruising Division; however, with only approximately twenty boats sailing regularly, a three division arrangement would see the individual fleets too small.
If we merely had Division 1 for racing boats and a Classic and Cruising Division (no spinnakers) then those boats now in Division 2 who wanted to use spinnakers would need to race in Division 1. Not so bad on a handicap basis as the handicapper would ensure a fair chance for all boats ( Come On! We know he would!). However, the chance of any of the slower boats attaining line honours is reduced but this may not be a problem for some of the skippers. It really depends upon whether or not a skipper needs the slim chance of a line honours or placing as incentive.
So what to do? We need to know what club members think of this idea. Basically, would the addition of a “Classic and Cruising Division” where the use of spinnakers is not permitted, induce a number of additional members to participate in the summer series or winter series or Channel Challenge. If it will, then maybe we can go down that path.
If you have an opinion or a better idea send an email to ketteringyachtclub@gmail.com and let us know what you think and the committee will make a decision.
Darryl Starkey
Secretary
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