New Insights into Yacht Design and Rating Systems
Sharing a fascinating paper published by the S&S Swan Association: “International Offshore Rule: Influence on S&S Swans and a Brief Overview of the Evolution of Handicap Systems” by Jim Teeters, Head of the Offshore Ratings Office at US Sailing, and Alan Gilbert, former Chief Engineer, and Executive Vice President at S&S Swan.
This comprehensive study explores the rich history of rating and handicapping sailboats, spanning almost 200 years. It delves into the development and impact of various rating rules, with a special focus on the International Offshore Rule (IOR) and its influence on the renowned S&S Swans. The paper highlights the intricate balance yacht designers strike between innovation and rule compliance, and it also discusses modern advancements in measurement and scoring systems.
Key topics include:
- The evolution of rating rules and their impact on yacht design.
- The unique design features of S&S Swans under the IOR.
- Modern innovations in yacht measurement and race scoring.
For anyone passionate about yacht racing, naval architecture, or the science of sailboat performance, this is a must-read. The authors provide unique insights into yacht design and how rating systems have shaped competitive sailing over the decades.
Read the full paper here: https://www.classicswan.org/pdf/IOR.pdf?utm_medium=email&utm_source=newsletter_134&utm_campaign=international-offshore-rule-and-s-s-swan&utm_id=134]
