Racing with 3 in the boat

Can anyone clarify the legal status of racing with 2 children in the boat?

I am taking part in our club Autumn series, and can't lose the usual 2 children, so have to take an extra one along!

I suppose it will slow us down a little, so shouldn't affect our 2 handed handicap.

Burl

Officially you should race with 2 crew. But the Sailing Instructions can permit this to be varied.

However, if you have your children out in a Mirror, I can only encourage you.

If anyone objects, buy them a beer and ask them to explain why one of your children shouln't go sailing in a Mirror.

Sinker

I do normally race with my oldest son - we're getting quite good at club level - I just want to get this race nailed so we have a chance of winning the Autumn series, as I missed the first and can't get to the last, but my wife can't look after the middle one that day....

If we win 4 races, nobody can touch us!

Burl

You often see 3 in a Mirror at events like Abersoch Mirror Week and club racing

At this level, I think this is something to encourage, particularly as it gets more people afloat and avoids siblings being left ashore.

Probably worth a chat with the Race Officer to make him aware. As you say more than likely to slow you down.

MCA Secretary

Go for it !!!

I can tell you now, it's not a good idea, especially if your extra crew is 5 and inexperienced (her first race) and there's a 20 mph wind blowing. We did manage 3 sitting out along one side for the longest beats, but it wasn't worth it on the short stretches, and the weight distribution was all wrong!! The toppers just pulled away from us, but we did manage to beat a Mirror singlehander, crossing the line 25 seconds behind him in a 1 1/2 hour race!! One win, one 3rd place - now we've got our work cut out for the rest of the series.

Burl