Rule 8.2.1 allows any owner to apply for a second valid IRC certificate for their boat, previously an option only available to those swapping between fully crewed or short-handed racing. The secondary certificate incorporates the former short-handed certificate and allows more configuration changes, with potential applications being inshore/offshore; shorthanded/crewed; racing/cruising sails; or even a specific configuration for a single event.
There are limitations on the data that may differ between the primary and secondary certificate:
IRC Rules state:
“8.2.1 A boat may additionally hold a separate secondary valid certificate:
(a) The secondary certificate will be clearly identified and shall only vary from the primary certificate in respect of, mainsail widths, E, P, headsail dimensions, flying headsail dimensions, single furling headsail allowance, the use of stored power, SPA, STL, SPL, spinnaker pole/bowsprit, whisker pole, number of spinnakers, number of flying headsails, aft rigging, use of moveable ballast, use of variable ballast, internal ballast;
(b) The secondary certificate boat weight and corresponding overhangs shall only vary from the primary certificate for a change in internal ballast. This change in boat weight is only permitted when both the primary and secondary certificates are ENDORSED in accordance with IRC Rule 8.5.
(c) Owners shall declare the primary or secondary certificate to the race organiser before the rating deadline.”
The application form to apply for a short handed IRC certificate can be obtained from your Rule Authority.