Updates for IRC in 2018

Changes to the IRC rating calculations are implemented every January to cater for technical innovations in yacht design, a practice implemented by the IRC Technical Committee to foster close racing and protect the main fleet while remaining progressive.

Over the last 12 months, the Technical Committee has been studying the effects of foils and how they are rated. Other developments include changes to the calculations affecting: the rating of spinnaker area, sports boats, and boats that set headsails from bowsprits and do not carry spinnakers. The ‘dayboat’ classification has also been removed from the Rule, leaving assessment of boats’ Offshore Special Regulations compliance to event organizers.

For more details on the changes to IRC for 2018:
• Rules & Definitions
• Software Changes

IRC is used for a huge number of local and international races and regattas all over the world including the offshore classics and other major events. More details and an introduction to IRC can be found here: https://www.ircrating.org/introduction/an-introduction-to-irc