The Chesapeake Bay YRA (CBYRA) is looking into the creation of a High Point Series to include dual purpose boats that can race and still be equipped as family cruisers. The double digit participation of cruisers at last summer’s Screwpile and Governor’s Cup (along with the 13 boats already entered for the 2015 Annapolis to Newport Race’s Performance Cruiser Class) support this consideration.
The newly created Chesapeake Racer Cruiser Association (CRCA) is developing class rules and the structure required to become a class that is eligible to participate in a CBYRA High Point Series. While this process is very much a work in progress, it is clear that more than one option may be necessary to cover the wide spectrum of this diverse group.
The initial classes being considered include:
Performance Cruiser Class – pretty much the same as the full race PHRF boats except that they will not be doing short windward/leeward course races. Class rules will include limitations excluding stripped-out boats. Current activity suggests that this class has a strong potential for consideration as a High Point class.
Multihull Cruiser Class – much the same as the monohulls, the boats in this class are larger and have more accommodations than the current multihull handicap class. While both beach cats and the mulithull handicap class have obtained High Point status, it will take significant effort to build a sufficient level of participation for inclusion in the High Point Series.
Fun Class – While this class is not intended for the High Point series it is perhaps the most important addition in that it focuses on bringing new owners into the racing fraternity and providing a home for those who have stopped racing due to issues with the costs and rating systems currently in place. This class is open to both monohulls and multihulls. A primary key to this “development class” is the use of golf handicaps that consider the potential of the crew rather than the usual PHRF handicaps that are based on the potential of the boat. With pursuit ptarts, that are less intimidating, and courses that feature more reaching, this class is designed to make it easy to get started.
Another key factor is our commitment to providing training and on-the-water coaching to enhance the experience.
For more information please contact [email protected]. Tell us what you think about this new class by emailing [email protected]
