(picture of racing DF-95s here)
Remote Control Model Boat Racing
Racing Model Boats is very fun and very addictive. At Sail Haven we are racing Dragon Flite 95 boats, also know as DF-95s. They are 95cm (37.5 inches) long. We will be using the "A" rig. We might add the option of sailing under the "B" rig in the future.
The racing takes place on short courses, 6-12 minutes long, right off the dock, or the platform. Control of the boat includes the rudder, and both the jibsheet and the mainsheet together. Tuning the rig is important, and is done onshore in quick "pit"stops between races. Adjustable rig controls include the backstay, jib halyard, main and jin downhauls, The boomvang and jib boom topping lift control the sail twist. A well tuned boat with sail a straight line with no need of rudder adjustment. Just like model boat's larger siblings, too much streering is very slow. Better to ease or trim the sails, then steer a little.
Starts are just like larger boat starts, except we use a 2 minute countdown for "serious" competitions and 1 minute for practice and informal competitions.
Racing Rules
Model boat racing uses the same rules as racing larger sailboats, with a few small changes.
The racing at Sail Haven will be governed by the rules as defined in the 2025-2028 Racing Rules of Sailing, Appendix E for RC sailing, these Sailing Instructions and the DF-95 class rules.
Boats may hit marks without penalty. EXCEPTION Starting and Finishing marks may not be hit while Starting or Finishing. If you hit a starting mark while starting properly simply do a proper penalty turn and continue racing. If you hit a finishing mark while finishing do a proper penalty turn then return completely to this course side before you refinish.
Model racing uses a four boat length zone to determine Mark Room.
Penalties are "One Circle", and must have one tack and one gybe in any order.
Starts are 2 minute countdowns for "serious" events and 1 minute countdowns for informal/practice events.
THE START: Individual Recalls and General Recalls will be made verbally. Skippers are on their honor to restart properly when over early, regardless of a hail or no hail.
(picture of DF-95s starting a race here)
