ACA(UK) Special Class Rules

Click this link to go to the UK Manufacturer of Access Dinghies

Note. There is a printable PDF leaflet link at the foot of this page + an Adobe reader download link if needed.

 ACCESS CLASS ASSOCIATION (UK)
Special Class Rules for Access Dinghies when participating in
UK Travellers Trophy Events and National Championships

1.  These special class rules must be read in conjunction with the current Access Class Rules available on the:

International Access Class Website http://www.accessclass.org/ - Technical Section.(or Click this link to go to the ACA(UK) Class Rules page of the website)
These international rules will apply for all events held in the UK, except where specifically amended by these special rules.  Access 303S dinghies shall follow the principles of the International Access 303 Class Rules, and may compete on equal terms with 303Ws in any 303 single-person races.

2.  The attention of competitors in Access Class events and event organisers is drawn to Section H of the International Access Class Rules (all classes) and in particular the following:
 H.4.1 Competitors in Access Class events are expected to compete in accordance with recognised principles of sportsmanship and fair play.
 H.4.2 Competing sailors with right of way need to take into consideration possible delayed reaction times and limited manoeuvrability of other Access Class sailors.
 H.4.3 Special consideration shall be given in conveying information and signalling to the needs of sailors with special needs be they physical, intellectual or sensory disabilities.
 H.4.4 Sailors with special needs may be assisted by electronic devices including servo assist winches, radio and remote control.

3.  Sailor Weight Rules – Maximum sailor and luggage weights for each Access model are displayed on the builder’s plate which is fixed to the cockpit of all Access models.  From 2009 there has been no crew weight equalisation arrangements in ACA(UK) events.

4.  The following variations to International Access Class Rules are allowed:
 4.1.  Sail Numbers – Sailors who have their own sails may seek a personal number from the Secretary of ACA(UK).  In this case, boats must be entered in ACA(UK) events under their correct registered number, and the Race Officer be informed of the personal number being used.
 4.2.  No deliberate adjustments to the sail area (reefing and unreefing) are permitted during a race between the raising of the class warning flag and crossing the finish line [See International Class Rule H.4.7 for all classes].  The clew outhaul may be adjusted whilst racing.
 4.3.  Alternative hard or soft seats may be used in place of standard hammock seats.  These may be fibreglass single seats supplied by SSM Ltd or other single or double seats approved by the Technical Sub-Committee of ACA(UK).  The seat may not be changed during a regatta or event [See International Class Rule C.2.1.(c)].

5.  Towing / Safety Line.
Competitors are responsible for the safety of their boats and are requested to have two lines attached – one to the bow and one near the stern – the bow line should be a minimum length of 3 metres for a 2.3, 4 metres for a 303, and 5 metres for a Liberty, all with a minimum 2 metre stern line.  These should accessible to safety boats while afloat to allow a prompt tow in case of difficulties or damage.

6.  If interpretation of the International Access Class Rules or these Special Class Rules is required, a member of the ACA(UK) Technical Sub-Committee must be consulted.
These Rules must be made available to all competitors in appropriate ACA (UK) events.

Special Note:  It is strongly recommended that all sailors should lodge with a member of their organisation remaining on shore, or a trusted friend, details of their medical condition and prescribed drugs in a sealed envelope, only to be used in the event of a medical emergency.


Issued January 2010
Access Class Association (UK)

For an easily printable PDF version click the following link ACA(UK) Special Class Rules Jan 2010 If you do not have a PDF reader you can download Adobe Reader free. click this link for the download page Adobe Reader

Racing Rules Links. This will link you to a download for the current edition of the ISAF Racing Rules of Sailing and an Animated Racing Rules Quiz and a Racing Rules Blog.



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