2016 Portsmouth Yardstick Numbers launched at the RYA Suzuki Dinghy Show 

Opportunity to discuss changes with the team at the show

The 2016 Portsmouth Yardstick (PY) numbers are to be launched on Saturday 05 March 2016, coinciding with the first day of the RYA Suzuki Dinghy Show, Alexandra Palace.  

The launch creates a great buzz at the show as well as allowing sailors the opportunity to discuss changes with the RYA Technical and Racing Services Department in person.  

This year the majority of the changes introduced are a continuation of performance trends seen within classes over a period of years, but the RYA has also seen a settling down of some classes indicating that there is more stability in certain areas.  

The introduction of the very successful PY online website – www.pyonline.org.uk in 2015, has seen a large shift in the way clubs submit their PY data, and as a result this year’s PY numbers are based predominantly on data received by PY online.  

New version of PY online

A fantastic new version of the PY online website has just been made live.  With an improved layout and design it is hoped that new clubs will be enticed to start using the website to its full potential, as well as allowing clubs who have already made use of the numerous features to continue to do so.

One of the features that has been well received by clubs is the ability to share result data with other local clubs that share similar sailing conditions. This allows clubs to accumulate information and make changes to handicaps with more confidence and accuracy.  

Bas Edmonds, RYA Technical and Racing Services Manager commented: "For the past few years the RYA has been working hard on educating clubs as to the benefits of adjusting handicaps locally – which we see as being vitally important to the health and success of club racing. It is hoped that the new website will facilitate the sharing of data between clubs and in turn will allow handicaps to be adjusted, allowing club members to partake in fair and enjoyable racing."  

Find out more

If you would like to find out more information about the Portsmouth Yardstick Scheme and how it works, please contact the RYA Technical and Racing Services team in the Panorama Hall, at the RYA Suzuki Dinghy Show. Alternatively for more information or to arrange a talk at your club, contact technical@rya.org.uk   

For more details on the Portsmouth Yardstick Scheme.