The FAQ (frequently asked questions)
The FAQ (frequently asked questions) email: cortezracing2004_at_pobox.com
>> I have not yet participated in a CRA event, but am interested in the upcoming Beer Can Series.
When will NOR & sailing instructions become available?
The NOR (Notice of Race) & entry form are now available on the CRA website. Easy to download:
http://www.cortezracing.com/
SIs (sailing instructions) will also be available on the web prior to the first race.
(Limited copies will be available around Shelter Island and at yacht clubs.)
Each week the results and photos will be posted there.
Be sure to check for any SI amendments.
>> When is the normal start time?
The first start is at 5:55 PM and every 5 minutes after that until 6:25 PM.
The W flag goes up at 5:49 PM as the sequence start warning.
Class A warning at 5:50 PM.
RRS 26 type start except as modified by the SIs.
Bunch of boats and NO general recalls.
Need to be on time. Read the Sailing Instructions!
>> How long is the normal course?
Courses vary by class & conditions each week.
Be sure to have a course chart and go by the RC boat to check the course board for your class.
>> I didn't hear the gun or horn during my start.
What should I do?
Watch the flags which are what count during the sequence.
(See SIs for detailed sequence.)
The gun and horn are merely courtesies.
Guns misfire & horns run out of gas.
>> I forgot the course list and chart.
Will the RC boat have extras?
*** NO *** The RC boat will NOT have SIs or course sheets.
With over 100 boats, this is a huge regatta.
Please be sure you come prepared with SIs, course sheet
and bay chart which can all be downloaded.
*** Don't forget your class color pennant for your backstay.
Most sailmakers will give you a scrap of spinnaker cloth
for free. (4" x 24" Colors listed in the SIs.)
The RC boat will not have any.
You need this along with *matching* sail numbers to be scored.
>> Do boats usually finish before the sun goes down?
Absolutely. There is a cutoff time otherwise if the wind completely goes away. Read the SIs.
>> Is there a gathering afterward? If so, when and where?
Yep, that's the whole purpose for some.
It varies each week. Check the RC boat. Also listed in the S.I.s.
The main places are SGYC & Bali Hai. Once at the Island Palms.
Cheap beer and food.
*** You may not bring your own alcohol.
>> Is there an entry fee?
Yes, see NOR. Much cheaper for CRA members.
(CRA Membership Application on the website.)
>> I don't really know the racing rules, what should I do?
Learn them! Not many & not hard
- Get a copy: US Sailing RRS 2005-2008
http://www.ussailing.org/rules/
- Get Dave Perry's book which includes a copy.
- Attend a racing rules seminar.
>> Oops, I fouled a boat or touched a mark. What now?
Quickly spin around with a tack & jibe (either order) even if you think you are right.
Trust me, the party is much more fun than a protest hearing which can often go either way.
Remember this is a fun regatta.
Just settle it for a beer or drink of choice at the party.
>> What's this Rule 9 stuff? I don't even see a Rule 9 in the RRS (racing rules of sailing).
Try looking in the USCG Navigation Rules book.
You should have a copy. The quick summary is that all big ships (66 feet / 20 meters and up) have right of way in San Diego bay. Don't mess with this, don't cut any crossing close, just go behind. Especially, do not mess with any Navy ships. Security is very high. If the small gray Navy security boat with that big 50 caliber heads towards you, just head away from whatever Navy ship or dock you may be going towards.
*** No vessel is permitted within 100 yards of a Cruise Ship or a US Naval Vessel.
*** Pay close attention to the Coast Guard if around.
*** Please understand that we can easily lose the privilege of racing on San Diego bay if all of us cannot follow the navigational rules and especially any dealing with Navy security.
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Come race and have fun.
CRA gets many kudos every year for this series.
Great excuse to duck out of work a little early on Wednesday.