Class Announcement: Digital Race Management Trial Through 2026 Nationals
Results from 11/5/25 Special Governing Board Meeting regarding use of digital OCS notification/detection technology
The Thistle Class Association Governing Board (GB) unanimously moved to permit a trial of digital race management components through 2026 Nationals to assess its potential benefits to the regatta experience. Through a temporary exception to CMR 78, the GB is permitting on board Digital On-Course Side (OCS) notification/detection, and on board Digital Mark Zone Indicators. This trial is open to any event through Nationals 2026.
Key Details
- Temporary Trial: This is not a permanent rule change but a trial under the oversight of the Governing Board.
- Electronic Notifications: OCS notifications and Mark Zone notifications via on board digital indicators are allowed.
- New Mark Zone Indicator: The GB moved to include this functionality in the trial. According to Vakaros, a company that offers this technology, “Three Boatlength Circle Detection is now available at all RaceSense events. Any mark on a course can be outfitted with an Atlas device and added to a course in Vakaros Race Control. Then, when boats enter the three boat length circle, a pink light will illuminate on the LED bar of their Atlas instrument. When a boat exits the circle, this LED shuts off.” This technology does not assess whether or not someone is entitled to room at a mark, it simply identifies when your boat has entered the zone.
- No Redress: Missing an electronic notification will not be grounds for redress; sailors remain responsible for compliance.
- Costs & Participation: So far, the Ventura Winter Series, Midwinters West, Midwinters East, and Eugene Nationals have expressed interest in having the flexibility to choose digital race management tools and technology if it fits their situations. GB members agreed that affordability and accessibility should remain a priority.
Why This Matters
- Potential Benefits: Digital race management technology could improve race efficiency, reduce delays, and simplify officiating.
- Concerns: Some sailors have raised concerns about cost, accessibility, and reliance on electronics.
- Your Feedback Matters: This trial is your chance to experience digital race management systems firsthand and help determine their future role in the class.
Next Steps
- A Digital Race Management Commission (DRMC) has been formed to draft an amendment for the GB to consider. If accepted by the GB, the amendment would be voted on by the full membership at the Annual Meeting in Eugene 2026.
- The Commission members are: David Hudson (Chair/Chief Measurer), Phil Gordon, Judy Gesner, and Greg Griffin.
- The GB and DRMC will review feedback from competitors. Please talk with your fleets and with your GB representatives about your concerns and ideas.
- A decision on permanent amendments to our rules to permit digital race management systems will follow, based on class input.
