Stephen McConaghy offers some quickfire tips for racing under IRC or ORC.

Between the 11m One Design and Mumm 30 classes, Stephen McConaghy has won four world championship titles. McConaghy represented Australia in the Solings at the 1996 summer Olympics sailing competition. He is a full time professional tactician and also a coach. Stephen offers some quick advice to make certain gains when racing under the IRC or ORC rating rules.

1.    Hull preparation must always be equal to the percentage of how badly you want to win, and set up the rig based on the forecast.
2.    A good start is crucial, do plenty of homework to derive a plan. Good communication on board is vital so everyone is on the same page with sail choices and manoeuvres throughout the race.
3.    Crew weight is super important in most boats. Have a good crew structure regarding who feeds what information to the tactician.
4.    For long races, a watch system that allows everyone to get adequate sleep. Time it correctly so the weight is on the rail when required and downstairs when not! Sleep deprivation loses races!

For information about the ORC and IRC rating systems click here.

By Glen Stanaway https://www.sailing.org.au/about/ourstaff/