Bill’s assessment is correct. He left out that the Erie Yacht Club Racing Fleet, which used only race with spinnakers, had dwindled to about 10 or so active boats. The Chairman at the time (I was Vice Chair) developed the Wednesday night Family Jib and Main (FJAM) racing, which uses a handicap adjustment system so everyone can win (sooner or later). Wednesday night FJAM racing became very popular – so popular that sufficient interest grew in non-spin weekend racing that we started a fleet for that as well.
From: Bill Coleman via CnC-List <cnc-list@cnc-list.com> Sent: Saturday, January 30, 2021 12:30 PM To: 'Stus-List' <cnc-list@cnc-list.com> Cc: Bill Coleman <colt...@gmail.com> Subject: Stus-List Re: Racing fleets and getting sailors to participate In our fleet, the Spinnaker is just that, usually on weekends, with a few races interspersed in the evening instead of the Wed Nite Jams. This usually only brings out around a dozen entries. Then, the Wed JAMs at 7 PM, usually with a fixed start at the corner of our club, occasionally with the Committee boat. Some things that help, are a good and dedicated Race Committee to get them started regularly, without delays. We usually get 40 to fifty boats out during the summer. Also nice are the Programs that start in the early spring, with food and drink once a month, then occasional Parties during the summer. Other things to encourage participation, are three La Fem races, strictly women, and another few for strictly under 30. You can’t understate the importance of camaraderie, keeps people active. Sponsors help to fund parties and keep costs down. Bill Coleman Entrada, Erie, PA From: David Knecht via CnC-List [mailto:cnc-list@cnc-list.com] Sent: Saturday, January 30, 2021 9:59 AM To: CnC CnC discussion list Cc: David Knecht Subject: Stus-List Racing fleets and getting sailors to participate I noticed looking at Bill’s link about his spinnaker that his club has three racing fleets: Spinnaker, Family JAM and Jib & Main. I don’t know what those represent, but am curious. I am in charge of racing for our club this year (for the first time) and one of the things I am looking into is whether we can increase participation in racing by our members. One idea I am exploring is having a “green fleet” for those new to raicng to get them invoved in a low stress format (primarily start timing when you get to the line). We would also have a pre and post race skippers meeting/discussion to talk about the race, rules, etc.. This group seems like a good place to get ideas as to what other clubs do in terms of racing fleets and encouraging participation from those who are not traditionally participating. Has anything in particular worked well for your club? Thanks- Dave S/V Aries 1990 C&C 34+ New London, CT
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