Racing of all classes of sailing boat under the Racing Rules for Sailing (RRS) and Equipment Rules of Sailing (ERS) is based on the assumption that each boat complies with its Class Rules, the class rules complementing the RRS- ERS by defining the boat and equipment that may be used. Normally it is necessary to measure the physical dimensions of a boat, its equipment and sails to establish if it complies with the class rules and this is the principal role of the `measurer’.
Measurers therefore play a fundamental role in the organisation of sailboat racing, and their ability to apply the class rules correctly and accurately is essential. Equipment must be measured for certification before being used for racing, but it is normally inspected at events as well. Techniques vary in general as certification requires derivation of actual dimensions and inspection means comparison with known minimum / maximum limits. The latter is one of the roles the WS International Measurer is expected to perform.
USOKDRA has established a Code of Conduct in its rules. We like the Culture of the International OK Dinghy Class [OKDIA.org] and the serious, but fun atmosphere at the Championships. We saw two boats not measure in at the Worlds. There was no argument, the matter was turned over to the race committee. The violations were serious enough that they couldn’t be corrected and the competitors were sent home. On the race course, 112 boats of all manner of expertise raced together in virtual silence, without protest. The parking lot was full of comity and tales of valor and tragedy, but all in good spirits.