Notice of Race (NoR) vs Sailing Instruction (SI)
To contrast and compare Notice of Race (NoR) and Sailing Instructions (SIs), we must understand their roles in sailing regattas or race events. Both are essential documents used in the governance and organization of competitive sailing events. While they are closely related, they serve different purposes and are used at different stages of the event planning and execution process.
1. Notice of Race (NoR)
✅ Purpose:
The NoR is the official announcement or invitation to participate in a sailing event.
It provides preliminary information to prospective competitors to help them decide whether to enter.
📅 Timing:
Published before the event, sometimes weeks or months in advance.
📜 Content Typically Includes:
Name, date, and location of the event
Organizing authority
Classes of boats eligible to enter
Entry procedures, deadlines, and fees
Rules that will apply (e.g., World Sailing Racing Rules of Sailing, local rules)
Scoring system (basic info)
Schedule of races
Contact information
Any special requirements (e.g., safety gear, insurance)
🎯 Function:
A promotional and logistical document.
Helps sailors plan, register, and prepare.
2. Sailing Instructions (SIs)
✅ Purpose:
The SIs provide the detailed operational rules and procedures that competitors must follow during the race or regatta.
📅 Timing:
Issued closer to or at the event, often after the entry deadline or at check-in.
📜 Content Typically Includes:
Courses to be sailed (e.g., maps, diagrams, marks)
Start and finish lines
Time limits
Signals and communication procedures
Protest procedures
Penalties and scoring details
Changes from the NoR
Emergency procedures, local hazards
🎯 Function:
A technical and operational guide for competitors.
Ensures safe, fair, and standardized competition.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Notice of Race (NoR) | Sailing Instructions (SIs) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Invite and inform prospective participants | Provide detailed race-specific instructions |
| Timing of Release | Well in advance of the event | Shortly before or at the start of the event |
| Audience | Potential and registered competitors | Registered competitors |
| Content Focus | General event info, eligibility, schedule | Detailed race procedures, course info, and safety rules |
| Binding Nature | Yes, but it can be updated or superseded by the SIs | Yes, they govern the conduct of the race itself |
| Modification of Rules | Can state intention to change specific rules | Can specify actual rule changes |
| Interaction with Each Other | SIs may supplement or override the NoR | NoR sets the baseline; SIs finalize the rules |
In Practice
Think of the Notice of Race as the event brochure or announcement, and the Sailing Instructions as the event playbook.
Both documents work together and are binding under the Racing Rules of Sailing.
The Race Committee, Jury, and competitors all rely on these documents to ensure the race runs smoothly and disputes are resolved fairly.
How They Work Together
| Feature | NoR | SI |
|---|---|---|
| Event Promotion | Announces the regatta | N/A |
| Entry Rules & Fees | Included | Not repeated |
| Course Details | General type (e.g., windward-leeward) | Full diagrams, mark descriptions |
| Schedule | Broad outline | Detailed updates |
| Protest Procedures | Mentioned or omitted | Fully explained |
| Rule Changes | May list potential changes | Actual changes listed |
| Race Management Procedures | Rarely detailed | Fully outlined |
