Handicapping

As I have discussed in the past, I am all for one design racing over the numerous handicapping options on offer.

When sailing a one design class all the boats are identical, which weeds out the most talented sailor and not that of who can spend the most money.

But perhaps my love of one design racing is purely due to having absolutely no understanding of the array of handicap scoring systems out there in the big wide world of sailing.

Take for example the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. There are heaps of divisions that can be won! Almost everyone can win a prize. There’s Line Honours, IRC A, IRC B, IRC C, IRC D, IRC E and PHS, but I am certain there is even an IRC XYZ in there as well. Brisbane to Gladstone is up there as well with IRC, PHRF Div 1 and PHRF Div 2 trophies up for grabs as well.

And then there are the Multihulls… This crazy bunch of wacky sailors choose hard core speed over tactics and mind blowing concentration. Their handicapping is as unique as themselves. It’s known as OMR which means Offshore Multihull Rule. When asking a few of these sailors what it actually calculates I was offered another rum…

So will someone please explain to me the benefit of handicapped racing!!!? Enlighten me with your thoughts; prove a point, because at the moment racing on wooden planks with a deck chair strapped to them is a better option as long as they are all the same!