Updated IRC Race Management Guidelines Support Event Organisers

The IRC Rating Authority has published an updated edition of its IRC Race Management Guidelines, giving event organisers practical, IRC-specific support when planning and delivering racing at every level.

Designed for Organising Authorities and Race Committees, and complementing the wider World Sailing race management resources, the guidelines highlight the key matters to consider when preparing an IRC event, from drafting the Notice of Race through to certificate deadlines, crew limitations, equipment inspection and scoring. Suggested Notice of Race wording is included where appropriate, helping organisers apply IRC consistently while retaining the flexibility to tailor their race documentation and procedures to the needs of individual events. The latest edition includes clear guidance on which IRC Rules may be amended by an Organising Authority and how those changes should be identified in the Notice of Race.

Advice and recommendations about the application of the sail limitation rules have been expanded, covering changes of sails during regattas, replacement sails and provisions for additional sails for specified offshore races.

Crew limitations are another area receiving additional clarification. The updated guidelines recommend applying IRC crew number and provide guidance on specifying the applicable limits in the Notice of Race. For organisers of short-handed racing, there is updated information covering classes, certificates and prizes, as well as the use of automatic and wind-vane steering devices.

In addition to the existing recommendation to set a deadline for rating certificates, there is advice for higher level events requiring Endorsed certificates regarding measurement and rating information being completed by specific deadlines. Updated guidance on proportionate equipment inspection is intended to help organisers check that boats remain consistent with their IRC certificates, complementing the separate IRC equipment inspection resources. Guidance on IRC scoring has also been refreshed, including information on dual scoring and championship scoring.

With organisers now preparing their race documentation for the coming season, they are encouraged to download the updated Guidelines and use them when preparing their 2027 Notices of Race and other event documentation.

IRC Race Management Guidelines