ICRA conference to iron out issues

SAILING:NEXT WEEK'S annual Irish Cruiser Racing Association (Icra) conference, the first to be held in Dublin since its formation eight years ago, is likely to be critical as plans are finalised for next season against a backdrop of recessionary times.

As its name suggests, the Icra church is broad, covering all-out racing yachts that supposedly could be cruised as well.

But while that concept held true decades ago, the top boats pay lip-service to mandatory requirements by having minimal facilities such as bunks (useful for storing sails and kit bags), a toilet or “head” (don’t dare anyone use that on day races or we’ll all suffer) and a small galley with stove (but no obligation to carry fresh food). In short, all measures save weight and improve performance.

At the opposite extreme, all-out cruising yachts that take part in races have decent creature comforts and are often obliged to remove anchors from their usual position on the bow. Emptying the fresh water tank on board is preferable, though occasionally an after-thought. Both extremes might be considered the difference between the competitive and recreational ends of the sport.

So what happens when the two come together at regattas and championships? Until recently, handicapping systems such as IRC and Echo adequately catered for demand. But pressures such as lack of regular crews saw many owners opt out of flying spinnaker sails during races, preferring more leisurely racing instead.

Designations such as Gentlemen’s class, White Sails and Non-spinnaker became commonplace.

Many boats were left tied up on berths or moorings as a result until the new accommodation was introduced.

Icra is also promoting non-spinnaker, with a set of rules for the class that allow flexibility for local organisers to ensure inclusivity. The Icra Corinthian Cup takes the place of a national championship for such boats that is in keeping with the spirit of the definition.

However, nationwide consensus on a common standard for the class has proven elusive; even agreement on the correct name has not been reached.

Differences continue on other issues such as just how competitive the racing in the class should be, whether exotic materials can be used in the other sails apart from the non-used spinnaker.

“Non-spinnaker is aimed at getting people on the water in an enjoyable way that leaves the option open to become more involved,” maintains Icra commodore Barry Rose, who is keen to stress that membership of Icra is automatic for any boat owner or crew member who takes part in IRC or Echo handicap racing in Ireland.

New course types and handicapping bands will be discussed and Rose has called for a large attendance at the Royal Marine Hotel Dun Laoghaire, next Saturday.