To All DRYA Members:
So here's the scoop on the introduction of IRC into our 2005 Bayview Mackinac Race.

First, let me remind you that US-IRC, USSA and RORC will be pretty busy this year issuing certificates so I would highly recommend that you get your IRC rating certificate process started early. You can fill out the certificate with all the info you know and/or can measure now such as beam, width, depth, sail areas, etc. Complete the information and submit to USSA so RORC can get your file setup and started. When your boat goes in the water, finish the measurements such as overhangs, weight (if you're weighing it), etc. and submit it to USSA and RORC will complete your rating process and submit your rating. If you wait until June, you may have problems getting your rating in a timely fashion, as that's a busy time for RORC. I can't stress enough... Get started as soon as possible to avoid the rush in the spring.

We will do everything we can to help you get your papers prepared and ready to submit. If you have any questions, drop us a note and we will help you. You can always call USSA (www.ussailing.org/offshore/irc/index.htm) or US-IRC (www.us-irc-org) directly to get answers.

Now for the intro process...

We plan to introduce IRC in the 2005 Mackinac by replacing PHRF with IRC on entire Southampton Course – except the Multihull Class - and leave the Shore Course on PHRF. Reason? This would reduce the number of boats in the fleet that will need IRC certification and will help insure we can get everyone rated. On the long course, boats currently rated faster then a PHRF of 60 will require an Endorsed IRC Certificate – IRC measured and physically weighed. Boats with a PHRF rating of 60 and slower will be allowed to have an IRC certificate with owner supplied data. Reason? Again, to make sure we can get everyone measured. However, any competitors can provide an Endorsed Certificate.

Don't misunderstand the certificates. They both use the same formula and generate the same certificate. Only different is that an Endorsed Certificate will give you a more accurate rating since your boat has accurate weight figures.

The GL70s from what I understand will/may be coming into the IRC group as they would like to have a shot at Overall. That would great and we would be glad to have them there. It would, however, be their choice since they have raced IMS for a number of years.

For those curious, One Design classes will continue race as One Design, just as they do now. Even-up handicap - or no handicap; however, they will need an IRC certificate in order to be scored in the Overall for the race. This is no different they how they sail right now in PHRF except that with PHRF numbers their ratings are all the same. With IRC, their ratings may vary slightly due to differences in weight.

In an effort to help everyone, we will be setting up a volunteer group that will start working with the owners to help him or her get their certificates. We plan to have a "Sail Measurement Day" at BYC some time soon so everyone can bring their sails and get them measured for their certificates. We will let you know more details and dates of all these events as soon as we have them scheduled.

There is a lot work ahead in our plates to make this happen and we will do everything we can get this process done as smoothly as possible. And with everyone's cooperation, we can get it done. I am not an expert in IRC but will try to answer any questions you guys may have. Just drop me a note.

Hope you come join us for the 2005 Bayview Mackinac. We're looking forward to a great racing year.

LZ