Summary:
(a) Classes and Class Flags
(b) Starting Groups
(c) Seahorse Division
(d) One-designs
(e) 2-Handed Division
(f) Quarter Ton Class
(g) CSA

(a) CLASSES AND DIVISION FLAGS

The RORC reserves the right to amend the class splits in the light of 2008 data before the start of the season. Class bands may be changed for Inshore regattas.

Yachts with canting keels will race in a separate Class within IRC.

A fleet may be divided into Starting Groups for a race. Starting Groups will when possible be based on IRC classes. A yacht without an IRC certificate (e.g. ORC Club only) may be allocated to start in a "starting group" with an IRC class. In such a case clear instructions will be given in Sailing Instructions. The Committee will make every effort not to split any class at a start, but on occasions this may be necessary and the Committee's action shall not comprise grounds for redress (RRS 62).

Within IRC in a race, boats marked " * " (Seahorse Division) will comprise an extra class for a first prize. Seahorse Division is for non-advertising boats (Category A - ISAF Regulation 20) which have not previously won any RORC prize in the current or previous season (including the race concerned) and have an age date of 12/04 and older (provided the date has been disclosed on the race entry form).

When at least six boats from a class which in itself races "level" and is recognised by the RORC take part in a race, a class result may be provided with RORC prizes on the scale in Appendix III. It would be helpful if class secretaries request this service in advance. With prior permission from the RORC certain classes may be allowed to race under class rules within RORC racing (i.e. IMOCA 60, etc).

A Two-Handed Division within IRC will be available in RORC offshore races. Yachts will race on IRC handicap and will be eligible for both Two-Handed and IRC class trophies. Automatic or wind-vane steering is permitted (changes IRC 14). Entries must satisfy the committee that they have suitable and adequate experience and that their boat is appropriately organised for Two-Handed sailing.

A Youth Division within IRC will be available for yachts with a minimum of 50% (rounded up) of the crew under the age of 28 on the 1st January 2009 in the IRC National Championship, Cowes- Dinard-St Malo, Rolex Fastnet and Autumn IRC Regatta.

The RORC Caribbean 600 race will be open to yachts with a minimum Caribbean Sailing Association rating of 0.870 provided that there are at least 10 entries with a CSA rating.

II (h)        QUARTER TON CLASS

To qualify as a Quarter Ton Boat, a boat shall have had an IOR rating of 18.5 or less during the period 1970 to 1996. In case of series production boats only one of the series need have had a rating of 18.5 or less.