US Sailing’s Offshore Ratings Office oversees certificates for IRC, ORC, and ORR, helping sailors compete on a level playing field. Among these, the Offshore Racing Rule (ORR) stands out for its scientific approach and close connection to the U.S. racing community.
A Rule That Balances Fairness, Fun, and Precision
Handicap racing always involves trade-offs: pure objectivity vs. accessibility, rewarding top sailors vs. spreading the joy. ORR addresses these by using a detailed Velocity Prediction Program (VPP) based on full boat measurements—length, displacement, sail area, crew weight, and more. The rule produces tailored polars for different wind and course conditions, targeting sailors who want fairness without human tweaking.
Built by and for U.S. Sailors
ORR was launched in 2004 as an alternative to IMS and quickly became the go-to for major U.S. offshore events including the Newport Bermuda Race, Transpac, and Chicago-Mac. Run by the Offshore Racing Association—a group of sailors, designers, and rule-makers—it’s continually shaped by feedback from the fleets it serves.
This responsiveness has fueled rapid evolution, event-specific ratings, and growing use across both coasts, especially in the West, now a grand prix hub.
What's New for 2025
ORR’s 2025 updates reflect its data-driven approach and attention to real-world conditions:
- Updated Aero Models for more accurate sail performance predictions
- Sea State Resistance, adding wave effects linked to wind speed and fetch
- Offshore vs. Inshore Polars for better tailoring to race formats
- Dynamic Allowance to reflect advantages of nimble boats in close-quarters racing
These changes will mainly affect inshore and buoy races, with minimal impact on long offshore events—ORR’s core.
Serious Racing, Objective Results
With moderate costs and robust design input, ORR appeals to competitive sailors seeking a reliable, transparent rule. While no system fits every boat perfectly, ORR continues to evolve with one goal: keeping racing fair, fun, and fiercely competitive.
Jim Teeters, Head of the Offshore Ratings Office at US Sailing and Technical Director of the Offshore Racing Association, has given this presentation on ORR Update.