The novice fleet is aimed at anyone who is new to club racing and is an easy way of getting started.
As your fleet captain, I'm here to help answer any questions or concerns you might have about joining in club racing. This covers everything from where to sign on, to where to start.
How it works
- The Novice fleet races in all club races.
- The Novice fleet start with the slow handicap start, which is the 4th and last start unless there are any boards racing (when the flag of St. Andrew goes up, get ready and when it goes down, you should be starting!)
- You can sail any boat in the Novice Handicap fleet regardless of handicap as long as you indicate you are sailing in the novice fleet on the sign on sheet.
Tips
- The course numbers are displayed at the starting line - either on the committee boat or the hut. It's helpful to note down the course before you set off, especially if you get left behind by the rest of the fleet!
- If you don't know something - ask someone who does. In my experience, more experienced sailors are only too happy to help.
- If you want more information on your rights in different sailing situations, read the 'The Rules in Practice' by Bryan Willis.
Novice Race Days
As well as the normal club racing, there are also dedicated Novice Race Days throughout the year, full details of which are listed in the OSC Events calender
If you need any help, have any questions or even have ideas on how to make it easier for novice sailors to join in club racing, click here to contact me.
All the best.
Floris
