Handicapping Policy – 19 May 2023

Club Handicapping policy as set out by NRSC Executive Committee 19/05/2023

Nelson Radio Sailing Club Inc uses the Mark Foy method of handicap racing. A simple system where each skipper has a start time handicap with the slowest skippers/boats starting first and the fastest skippers/boats starting last.

The Club Handicapper shall be elected by the executive committee following each Annual General Meeting. . If deemed necessary, the elected Handicapper may co-opt an assistant from the general club membership.

  • Handicaps to be based on historic information collected by the handicapper across all forms of club racing. All members must be advised of handicap changes and the most up to date handicap list must be available on the club website at all times.
  • All handicaps apply to skippers and their current boats only.
  • The Handicapper has the right to adjust handicaps as seen fit at any time during a series. Adjustments to be amended and advised on the club website prior to the next scheduled race day.
  • New members will start from scratch. After 3 official events, the Handicapper will assign an appropriate handicap.
  • Only registered boats may be entered into club competitions. The RO on the day may if deemed necessary, request to view any boat registration form as proof of ownership.
  • Once a race has commenced in any club competition, should any boat withdraw, the said skipper may continue the days racing in an alternative boat but all further finishes will be recorded as DNF.
  • Should any skipper commence a competition race in other than his/her registered boat, said skipper shall sail under their current handicap. The RO must be advised of any such change of boat no later than 15 minutes prior to the race briefing. The Handicapper will then assign the skipper an appropriate handicap prior to the commencement of the first race.
  • In handicap racing it is important the start line is equally clear for all boats in each group of handicaps. To this end a box of 3 boat lengths will apply directly behind the start line. Waiting boats shall not enter the “BOX” until boats on the handicap in front have reached their start time.
  • Should any boat be late for the start or generally fail to cross the start line on their handicap time, they must take all possible precautions not to impede the progress of following boats.
  • Any member may apply for a handicap review by submitting a written request to the Executive Committee.

Requests to consider changes to this handicapping policy may be made in writing to the club secretary no less than 10 days prior to the N.R.S.C AGM.

NRSC Handicapping policy-2023Download PDF