HAMYC STANDING RACE INSTRUCTIONS

HAMYC STANDING
RACE INSTRUCTIONS

1 RULES
1.1 Races will be governed by the rules as defined in The Racing Rules of Sailing
(RRS), Appendix E for RC sailing, the Class Rules of the Soling 1m Class Association
and these Sailing Instructions.
1.2 Regularly scheduled racing will be sailed in the Soling 1m Class. To be considered
for awards skippers must be members of the Halifax Area Model Yacht Club (HAMYC)
and possess a properly displayed Canadian Radio Sailing Association (CRYA) sail
number.

2 CHANGES TO THE SAILING INSTRUCTIONS
2.1 Oral changes to these Sailing Instructions may be made at any time by the Race
Director (RD). All competitors shall be notified. This changes rule 89.2(c).

3 SCHEDULE OF RACES
3.1 Regularly scheduled racing will occur Thursday Evenings between 1800 and 1900
and Sunday afternoons between 1300 and 1500 at Sullivan’s Pond in Dartmouth.
3.2 If racing is cancelled on a particular day an Email/Facebook Notice will be sent out
before 1000 on the day concerned.
3.3 The scheduled time of the Preparatory signal for the first race is 1800 on Thursday
evenings and 1300 on Sunday afternoons.
3.4 The race director will determine the number of races for each day after considering
weather, course and equipment conditions. No race shall start after 1900 on Thursday
evenings and 1500 on Sunday afternoons.

4 RACING FORMAT
4.1 All competitors will race as one fleet.

5 THE COURSE
5.1 The course will be chosen by the RD to suit existing conditions and orally described
by the RD using existing fixed marks.

6 THE START
6.1 A one-minute starting sequence will be used. The “Preparatory” signal is defined as
when the auditory sequence begins; the “Warning” signal is defined as when the one
minute countdown begins. This changes rule E3.5. 2
6.2 OCS (on course side) If any part of a boat’s hull or equipment is on the course side
of the starting line at the start the line judge [or RD] will attempt to hail that boat. Failure
of the line judge [or RD] to make a hail or a skipper to hear such a hail will not be
grounds for a Protest, or request for a redress hearing. This changes Rule 62.1(a).
6.3 A boat may not enter the starting area by crossing the starting line from the course
side after the Warning Signal. ‘Dip Starts’ are not permitted.

8 HOLDS
8.1 Prior to the Warning Signal, a skipper may request that the Race Director delay the
starting sequence for five minutes for the repair of a technical problem or breakdown.
8.2 When such a delay is granted, it will be announced and the Warning Signal will not
be sounded until the expiration of five minutes from the commencement of the delay.
8.3 Each skipper may be granted one such delay per day. Delays may not be stacked.
8.4 No hold will be granted if the delay results in the failure to start a race under 3.4
above.

9 PENALTY SYSTEM
9.1 A boat touching a mark as defined by Rule 31.1, shall take a penalty turn as
required by Rule 31.2.
9.2 A boat breaking a Rule in RRS Part 2, shall take a one-turn (360) alternate penalty
as required by Rule 44 and modified by E4.4.

10 PROTESTS
10.1 A boat protesting another boat, while sailing, shall hail the other boat, as required
by Rule 61.1(a) as modified by Rule E5.2.
10.2 No formal protests will be entertained. Failure of the contesting skippers to work
things out on the water will result in the disqualification of both parties.

11 SCORING
11.1 The Low Point System described in RRS Appendix A shall be used.
11.2 The score for one Race shall be discarded after completion of 5 Races, two
Races after completion of 10, three races after completion of 15; and so on every 5.
11.3 Every effort will be made to collimate the results and produce monthly series
scoring for the Thursday and Sunday regular series racing. Results will be presented
on the HAMYC Webpage and acknowledged at the HAMYC Annual General Meeting.
11.4 In order to be included in the monthly series scoring the racing for a particular day
must include at least 4 skippers sailing at last 3 races.

12 EQUIPMENT AND MEASUREMENT CHECKS
12.1 A boat and her equipment may be inspected at any time for compliance with Class
Rules and sailing instructions.
12.2 If any measured equipment is found to have been modified, the skipper involved
will be scored “DNS” for all races to the point when the modifications were discovered
in the regatta.

AGM – January 5, 2025

From the Dot.com notebook:
Afternoon folks,

Just back from our small boat club AGM, prize awards and Elections. Fun time!While I’ve been Commodore , serving for six years in the past, this year I volunteered to serve as Vice Commodore. I see my role to support our new Commodore Brian Luger and promote the club by attracting both new members and former members or reclaim inactive boats. I might add that boats now cost four times what they did 15 years ago when I started model yacht racing.

Last year we hosted the National Championships, won again by Jim. In addition, our club spearheaded the Canadian team in Stowe Vermont and for the first time we won the Can-Ams, so we get to host this championship in 2025, and I’ll be a part of that.

We had a great meeting, special thanks go out to the former hard working executive. The meeting was held at the Parkside Pub and Smokehouse and the food was great. Mary is seen ogling her newly arrived “Boss Hog” entree, she particularly enjoyed the southern bbq sauce and cornbread side as well as the home cut fries. Smothered under the cole slaw topping is the smokehouse sausage. I really liked my “Messy Piggy ” offering in the next picture, especially the Tennessee Bourbon sauce and thin onion rings over the smokehouse, very flavourful pulled pork. The fries were delicious but about six times the amount I can eat, where is my grandson when I need him?

The next picture is of some of the members discussing businesses with pleasant barbs, not unlike what we hear at the pond which makes the club so much fun.

Opening Regatta 2024

Two days of beautiful weather, and some close racing combined to make our Opening Regatta a huge success!

Race action with Halifax Area Model Yacht Club in Sullivans Pond Dartmouth Nova Scotia
Race action with Halifax Area Model Yacht Club in Sullivans Pond Dartmouth Nova Scotia
Race action with Halifax Area Model Yacht Club in Sullivans Pond Dartmouth Nova Scotia
Race action with Halifax Area Model Yacht Club in Sullivans Pond Dartmouth Nova Scotia
Race action with Halifax Area Model Yacht Club in Sullivans Pond Dartmouth Nova Scotia

We are hosting a National Championship!

Halifax Area Model Yacht Club
2024 Soling 1M Canadian National Championship
June 15 and 16, 2024
Register today for the upcoming Soling 1M Canadian National Championship Regatta!
Join us for two days filled with close races, friendly competition, and a friendly East Coast experience.
Whether you’re an experienced skipper or a novice sailor, there’s something for everyone at our regatta.
Follow the link to download the Notice of Race and forward your entry and etransfer for the fee to halifaxareamodelyachtclub@gmail.com

Sailing the first windward leg

Mastering the First Windward Leg: Strategies for Successful Sailboat Racing 

Introduction:
The windward leg is often the most crucial part of a sailboat race, setting the tone for the rest of the competition. Mastering this leg requires a combination of strategy, skill, and an understanding of the wind and how it interacts with the waters where the course is set.
 
1. Pre-Race Preparation:
   a. Study the Course: Before the race begins, carefully study the course layout, paying close attention to the position of marks, wind direction, and potential obstacles.
   b. Weather Analysis: Analyze weather forecasts and observe current weather conditions to anticipate wind shifts, gusts, and changes in pressure.
   c. Boat Preparation: Ensure that your boat is properly rigged, sail trim is correct, and the radio gear is functioning properly.

2. Starting Strategy:
   a. Positioning: Aim to start near the favored end of the starting line, considering wind direction and current. Avoid being trapped in a crowded or disadvantaged position.
   b. Timing: Time your approach to the starting line to gain maximum speed as the race begins. Avoid being too early (risking penalties) or too late (getting left behind).
 
3. Windward Leg Strategy:
   a. Sail Trim: Continuously adjust sail trim to optimize boat speed and pointing ability. Your pre-race preparation and tiller adjustments should deliver the perfect balance between power and efficiency.
   b. Tacking Technique: Execute tacks smoothly and efficiently, minimizing loss of momentum. Anticipate wind shifts and choose the best moment to tack based on tactical considerations.
   c. Strategic Tacking: Strategically position your boat to take advantage of wind shifts, favorable current, and clear air. Be ready to tack to maintain a clear lane and avoid getting pinned by other boats.
   d. Avoiding Distractions: Focus on sailing your own race and stick to your game plan. Avoid getting drawn into unnecessary conflicts or distractions with other boats.
 
4. Tactical Considerations:
   a. Laylines: Identify and sail the optimal laylines to reach the windward mark efficiently. Avoid overstanding or falling short of the mark by accurately judging wind shifts and current effects.
   b. Clear Air: Maintain clear air by positioning your boat to avoid disturbed wind from other boats. Use windward boats as indicators of wind shifts and tactical opportunities.
   c. Strategic Mark Rounding: Plan your approach to the windward mark well in advance, considering wind, current, and traffic. Aim to round the mark with speed and momentum to gain an advantage over competitors.

5. Observation:
   a. Observing Competitors: Keep an eye on competing boats to gauge their tactics and adjust your strategy accordingly. Be ready to adapt to changing conditions and competitor movements.
 
Conclusion:
Mastering the first windward leg in sailboat racing requires a combination of preparation, strategy, and on-the-water skills. By carefully analyzing the course, executing smart starting tactics, and employing effective windward leg strategies, you can position yourself for success in the race. Continuously refine your techniques through practice and observation, and always be ready to adapt to changing conditions on the water.

Florida Man sinks Soling 1M

This is great example of what happens when a Soling gets hit hard when the winds are strong ie 17-18 mph , my boat sunk in 25 feet of water.

A diver was able to retrieve my boat a week later , needles to say a large hole , another crack was found near the rudder .

All the electronics were effective by the water exposure and will need to be replaced .

Repairs are under way.

Don McDermaid

Bring your boat for a checkup

At the AGM a request was made for an opportunity for members to have their boats checked out and ask questions about setup and boat stuff.

Request is granted!

SUNDAY March 10, 2024 at noon
Jim’s boat garage where there is a least one of everything model yachting related somewhere.
(The garage is not heated so dress appropriately)
6 Rannoch Road
Dartmouth, NS
In the event of foul weather, we will go the following Sunday March 17, 2024 at Noon.
There will be an email in advance as a reminder.

Starting a Model Sailboat Race

The start is the place on the course where you can pass the most boats, but it is not easy because everyone else wants to do the same thing. In general, our starting lines are a little crowded which makes a port tack start very difficult except for days when there are extreme wind shifts happening. Port tack starts are not for beginners.

I begin my preparations before I leave for the pond, by checking the forecast for wind direction and wind speed during the time we have scheduled. That can help to set expectations about when shifts will take place and what direction the wind will be turning through the day. Of course, you need to remember that the pond is a micro-climate within that forecast and will throw some curves at the sailors through the day.

Rather than practice racing before the scheduled start, I like to sail up and down the expected course, looking for any shifts that I can detect. I do this several times to see if the shifts are persistent, and time them to see what patterns may emerge. 

For example, at Sullivan’s Pond there are often two patterns near the south end of the pond near the bridge. On the left, a port tack shift will often occur at a regular interval. Michael Kennedy can be seen out there looking for that shift. The other shift is a more persistent starboard tack shift that will lift close to the marks. The port tack shift is usually a stronger velocity.

After sailing the upwind and downwind course a few times I formulate a plan for the first beat, which will inform my start plan as well. As I develop my plan for the start, I will sail along the line on both tacks to see which end is favored (which end allows a higher sailing angle to the first mark). I also pick a starting point for my final approach to the line and count down in my head to time my approach to the line.

My plan generally revolves around where I think the first shift will happen, and where all the other boats are clustering on the line. I like the starboard end of the line most of the time since it is easier to see my boat.

Caveats:
Some people like to wait and force other boats over the line early, it is legal and part of the game so while you have a great start plan devised remember to keep a watch out for those boats.

Also be aware of the skill level of the other boats, if you get tangled up with a new sailor, that is on you. If you are a new sailor, do your best to heed the rules of the road and remember all those other sailors were once in the same place as you.

Summary:
In summary, make a plan based on observations of wind shifts and the behavior other boats. Sometimes they work out, sometimes not. In sailboat racing you must be prepared to adapt and innovate, there are a lot of moving pieces and you only control a few.
The Halifax Area Model Yacht Clubs sails primarily at Sullivan’s Pond in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. Our largest fleet is the Soling One Metre which is one of the largest classes of RC Boat in the world.