The RYA has launched a major new initiative aimed at trying to retain racing sailors in our sport and to recognise that whether we are participants in a race or organising the race, everyone has the right to enjoy the sport.
The RYA Racing Charter is included within the new version of the RYA Racing Rules of Sailing 2005-2008, and is a set of guidelines designed to help make racing more fun, fair and welcoming for competitors and organisers at all levels. At a time where our sport is seeing falling levels of participation at some clubs and class association activity, whilst others thrive, the RYA hopes this new initiative will provide impetus for renewed vigour and enthusiasm.
The Charter promotes good rule observance and encourages good sportsmanship and good communication between competitors and organisers. The RYA believes that these basic principles will lead to bigger and better racing at clubs and in the classes, and if competitors and race organisers understand what is expected of each other it will promote high quality, accessible and enjoyable racing for everybody.