That is not entirely the spirit... lol
Yardsticks for OTB Catamarans have been determined, for most popular or more
common classes, based on results of mixed fleet racing at major regattas and/or club
racing, generally over a wide range of wind/wave/tidal conditions, but predominately in
moderate to fresh winds on coastal and/or estuary waters (i.e. - typical average
conditions at most Australian sailing venues/waters). Under these wind/wave conditions
(say consistently 12/15 knots+), sloop rigged (2 up) variants of some classes (e.g.
Taipan 4.9, Mosquito et al) typically outperform the cat rigged (1 up) variant, whereas in
light/moderate conditions (say consistently under 10 knots) the 2 variants are much
closer or equal in performance. Race Officers at inland waters clubs and/or sailing
venues where conditions are protected from the elements, with smooth waters and
generally light/moderate winds, may wish to modify YV yardsticks for these or other
classes, based on observed performances between racing crews of similar skills across
various classes. All such “locally derived” yardsticks are not to be referred to as YV
yardsticks but “Club” yardsticks or some other similar term. Race Officers should be alert
for and not permit regatta/club entrants “cherry picking” race conditions and sailing cat
and/or sloop rigged to suit conditions vs yardstick, with results then aggregated under 1
entrant. Sailing Instructions should be worded to prohibit such actions.
