The more observant members will notice that some changes to the 2017 cruiser harbour races have been listed. These include the following:

• All Lugger / Cruiser races ‘double booked’ events have been shifted. Cruiser harbour races are now to take place only on Saturdays.
• A new race series has been added – to be called the Combined series. So called as it combines the results of both the Rylard (4 races) and Committee (4 races) series results with two additional summer races. This makes a total of 10 races, your best 8 results to count towards the result. So you now have 3 chances of winning this coming year.
• Races are now spread across from mid-March to end-October. Check Club Calendar for dates.
• Yacht handicaps – have yet to meet a club where all members are equally happy with their designated handicap! The Club used to use PY (Portsmouth Yardstick) but in an attempt to reduce the Bar mutterings, have recently changed to NHC (National Handicap for Cruisers). This is a system introduced by the RYA and is aimed at encouraging the slower boats and those members who are less skilful, to be able to compete with the faster boats. If you are unfamiliar with this system please check out – Sailing > Yacht Racing > Handicap Explained, where I have attempted to explain how it works and its effect on race results.

Hopefully all the above changes will encourage members to come and give Cruiser Racing a try. It’s the best way of getting to know how your boat behaves and how to get the best from her. Come and support your club and have fun at the same time.