How do I get a ranking?

As the season is about to start its time to remind all new comers to the class about IODAI ranking systems, why sailors need a ranking, and what a sailor needs to do to get one.

A few FAQ's:

Q: Are there rankings for Junior sailors and Senior sailors?

A: Yes, both fleets are now ranked seperately since 2008

Q: How does a sailor get a ranking?

A:  There are five "ranking" events during the season; the four Regional Championships and the National Championships.  Other events such as the Crosbie Cup, End of Seasons, local regattas DO NOT COUNT.  Sailors must compete in two regionals and the Nationals to acquire a ranking.  If sailors do not compete in the minimum number they will be classed as "not ranked".

Q.  What if a sailors competes in all four regionals, will that get them a ranking?

A: No, they MUST compete in the Nationals.  If they compete in all four regionals their best two results will count towards their ranking; the others will be discarded - they MUST still compete in the Nationals and that result can NOT be discarded.

Q: Why does a sailor need a ranking?

A: Each year the top sailors are invited to "The Trials" which select the Irish representative Teams at the Europeans and other top International events.  Currently the top 35 Juniors and the top 35 Seniors are invited.  The Junior / Senior split was introduced in 2008 but historical analysis indicates that the 35/35 ratio is represenative of the sailors who have been invited to the trials in the past.  Remember that of those 35 Juniors, over half will be in their last year as Juniors when they acquired their ranking and will actually go to the trials as Seniors i.e. Oppie age 13.

IODAI Rankings may also be used by IODAI from time to time for other matters e.g. inviting saiors to other events where a known level of competence is required e.g. Braassemermeer International Easter Regatta in Holland (this year the top 20 Seniors and top 10 juniors were invited - other sailors were invited to apply).

Q: What is your Oppie age?

A: Whatever age you are in a particular year is your Oppie age.  So it makes no difference if you are 13 on 1st January 2009 or 31st December 2009, your Oppie age in 2009 is 13 (even though you might be 12 for a part of the year, even during the sailing season).  Sadly, the year in which you are 15 is your last year in Oppies.

Q: Is there a ranking system for the Regatta Fleet

A: No.  It is considered that sailors in regatta fleet should experince the fun of sailing and the introduction of a ranking system could be detrimental to that ethos. 

Q: So, if a sailor wants to acquire a ranking and get invited to the trials, do they need to move to the main fleet?

A: Yes, but (and it's a big but) be careful when you move to the main fleet.  Too soon and the sailor may be out of their depth, particularly if it's windy.  Remember, the main fleets sail for longer and sometimes in much windier conditions than regatta fleets.  It can be very discouraging to a sailor if they have to mave back to Regatta Fleet. 

However, if your sailor is consistently winning the prizes in regatta fleet, it is probably time for them to move on - just make sure they have some experince in sailing in tougher conditions.  You may like to read the following article on moving from regatta fleet to main fleet http://www.iodai.com/live/535.html

Good luck in the season ahead and if you have any questions on rankings, please don't be afraid to ask.