The last time I checked there was no definitive handicap for the stratos, currently I am sailing to a local PY handicap of 1050 (centre-board) but this has been provisional. Have we got a handicap that is set in stone yet?
If you look at all the lierature and Class reviews in Y & Y you will see the Stratos Centreboard (I don't know about the keel version) is rated at 1095. I think this came from the design team. I use this in my club racing at West Lancs and have used it at Anglesey in the offshore race without being questioned.
I raced last year on the laser recommended number of 1095 (centreboard) but it was clear that the number was too high as I won nearly every race! I spoke to the RYA and they suggest 1082 based on a very small number of returns from other clubs but stressed that more returns are needed. I am now using 1082. I did have a problem at Bala SC bank holiday open meeting last year when their race officer put us as faster then a Dragon!
I own No. 255, centreboard version and sail in a mixed fleet at Dalgety Bay. I'm using 1080 currently and am doing quite well with this number... I suspect it will have to come down further. Depending on the course.. and wind etc. I find that the Stratos is faster than the Std Laser(1078), L2000(1091?) and is comparable to the RS200 offwind. (We can absolutely hump RS200's up the beat!, but in light winds, a Wayfarer can beat us to the leeward mark.. Pointing isn't as good as RS400 etc, but upwind speed is very close! We devised a "slow asymmetric fleet" start for the Dalgety Bay regatta, with RS200's Laser 2000's and us in the Stratos. We had good close racing and secured a third overall, with a first and a second!
Just discovered this site so will be butting in regularly now! Might even join the class assoc!
Our experience is similar and it makes the 1095 rating seem a little too high. 1082 seems about right. Some more experienced members of my club express supprise when I tell the PN is 1095. Does anyone know when this will be resolved? Shaun.
I contacted the RYA as they set PY numbers based on returns from clubs. In 2002 they had not had sufficient returns. Therefore you should get your club to send in a return (before end September I believe). I race off of 1085 at my club.
I emailed the RYA a couple of days ago (date now is 5th sept. 2002) and asked about the PN number given to the stratos (centre-board version). The response included a technical explanation of the system and the final line(ish) said "The little information we have suggests a Trial Number of 1082. Hope this helps." This was from Kath O'Connell Technical Unit Administrator Direct Line: 023 8062 7409. It would appear the PN may be a little lower than was first thought.
Handicap - what is it
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Posted - 20 Apr 2002 : 20:10:22
