Hi All

The RYA have published their new handicaps for 2010. There are some changes to several classes sailed at Combs including Phantom, Merlin Rocket, Supernova, Lightning, Laser (Full and Radial), Topper, B14, and Byte (not CII).

The list is here.
http://www.rya.org.uk/SiteCollectionDocuments/technical/Web%20Documents/Portsmouth%20Yardstick%20General/2010%20Part%207%20PN%20List.pdf

I think it might stir things up a little.

Russell

Good point Russell,
Some very interesting amendments have been made to this year’s published handicapping numbers. The RYA is now using current and consistent data from a significant number of clubs in the UK. I suspect these dramatic changes will continue for several years to come.
The revised handicapping numbers continue to recognise the advances in technology adopted by some of the dinghy classes. The Byte is a classic example, as it gains three points to 1165 whilst the Byte C11 stays at 1140. A twenty five point differential for the advanced rig and sail, driving the same basic hull. I think Byte have adopted the correct approach. If you fundamentally change the performance of the dinghy you should adopt a separate handicap (number). This allows the original design to remain competitive.
I am surprised about the changes to the Laser. An Olympic class dinghy sailed at every club in the country and by helms all ages. I would have thought over the years, the number of returns would have produced a handicap set in stone. We now find it has gained a couple of points. A little disappointed by only one point advance to the Supernova handicap. Being a class designed for gentlemen and sailed exclusively by gentlemen, I would have expected the RYA to have taken these attributes into consideration.

Bob

Well Bob thanks for the Gentleman compliment just been to the Dinghy show and the new supernova and sail looks mint Not placed an order though.. The Merlin got hammed unfortunately

It is interesting to note that the PY for the C2 Byte was class supplied when the new rig came along and has not changed, Since the Phantom has now received a more realistic handicap is the old style Byte the new "bandit" at Combs......for those insubstantial enough to sail one? Also the Supernova may be the "gentleman's" craft of choice but us punks sailing the youth Olympic Class will kick yo' arse, eh' Rick?