Page 32 - Race

8. COURSES

8.1 Location

The course location should be selected to give as fair conditions as possible within the locality having
regard for tidal currents, vagaries of wind caused by headlands and buildings, and shallows.
However, it is commonplace in keelboat racing to introduce challenges of navigation and varying
tide in which case this approach does not hold.

When racing is to take place around fixed harbour buoys or landmarks as in keelboat/cruiser racing,
the positions of starting and finishing lines may vary depending on the wind direction.

Some clubs have a designated race area
with the result that the Club's RO will always
set his course in the same area.

In enclosed waters, the course shape will
reveal how much flexibility the RO has in
placing its position with regard to the wind
direction. It may also indicate to them that a
starboard hand course is necessary,
although a port hand course is always
preferred to avoid issues at the windward
mark. In open water, the procedure is
simpler.

The use of GPS has simplified the laying of marks, however, care has to be taken when transmitting
GPS data on the radio.

8.2 Course Geometry

In the past courses usually provide a combination of beating, reaching and running - each leg testing
particular tactical and boat handling skills. Recent developments have shown a preference by many
classes for windward-leeward courses removing the long reaching legs where passing opportunities
are difficult to find. Exceptions are long-distance passage races, where often changes in weather
provide the variations desired.

Some courses have no regular geometry. Race Committees often use harbour beacons and other
permanent 'special racing marks' as a convenience and some races use geographical features such
as islands.

Before deciding on the course geometry, the RO and the Race Committee should liaise very closely
with the Class Association. The officials of the Class will be more familiar with the characteristics of
the boat and what type of course geometry is most suitable for their event.

A good RO will not impose his will on the class but should be able to advise them of the effect course
selection will have on efficient race management. Knowledge of local conditions which can have an
adverse effect on the efficient running of the event should be brought to the attention of the class
association at an early stage of the planning.

Whatever the course configuration, convention and common sense should play a part in the course
selection. Courses should be consistent and not complicated. Port-hand roundings are preferred at
a windward mark because the right-of-way boat does not have to tack at the mark. Therefore, for

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