The race schedule is subject to change based upon weather and other conditions the day of the race. The final schedule, race course, and other important details will be communicated at the Captain’s meeting on the day of the race. Check back with www.ragstorichesregatta.com for information about getting your boat on the beach. The regatta will be governed by the Rules as defined in the Racing Rules of Sailing (RRS) and GYA regulations for sanctioned events (available at www.gya.org).
ELIGIBILITY
The regatta has principally attracted Hobie 16 beach catamarans. Similar boats are welcome to participate and the race judges will attempt to performance-rate all boats. This however is not an officially sanctioned Hobie (or other) race. The performance rating will be done if possible with the primary goal of a safe, fun, and equitable race.
SAFETY
All boats will comply with United States Coastguard and State safety regulations. It is the responsibility of each skipper to determine whether they should start a race, continue a race, or if lifejackets are appropriate. This does not supersede any class regulations that may require the wearing of lifejackets while on the water.
SUPPORT BOATS AND SAFETY PERSONNEL
Support boats and jet skis will be provided to assist at launch and landing. Security and safety personnel will also be available to assist as needed.
CHANGES TO RACING RULES
The Sailing Instructions may change some of the Racing Rules of Sailing. Any changes will not require prior knowledge by the competitors.
SAILING INSTRUCTIONS AND COURSE
• Final sailing instructions will be provided during the Captain’s meeting.
• The race instructions are generally as follows (subject to day of race weather and surf conditions):
• A Le Mans style start: Participants will launch their boats from the beach, the starting line. Depending on the number of boats participating, the race times may be adjusted to give consideration to the varied start times if all boats are not able to launch off the beach at the same time.
• The first leg will consist of sailing west to a buoy approximately 1/2 mile away. The turn will require the buoy to be passed on the port side.
• The second leg will be approximately 3 miles to a buoy placed near Seagrove, due east from the start at Grayton. The turn will require the buoy to be passed on the port side.
• The third leg will be approximately 3 miles back to the west to the first buoy. The turn will require the buoy to be passed on the starboard side.
• The final leg will be approximately 1/2 mile back to the east to a water line finish that will be marked on the beach. Boats must cross the finish line within 100 yards of the beach.