ABOUT
The Annapolis YC 3-2-1 Invitational® offers three different races over the course of three days. The first day features a long-distance race, followed by a buoy race on the second day, and a windward-leeward race on the final day. The races are open to boats of all sizes and types, and sailors can compete in one or all three races depending on their preference.
How Team & Match Racing Work
WHAT DOES 3-2-1® STAND FOR?
Seven prestigious clubs will be joining us from around the globe. This event is different from any other regatta because each team races in different boats throughout the event in different types of racing formats (other regattas use one type of boat and one format). The basics - each yacht club team consists of six team members. Now, let's break it down:
TEAM RACING
Teams start off, race round a course, and the team that has the lowest number of points when they cross the finish line wins. A boat is awarded points based on the place it finishes the race - for example, a boat that finishes 1st earns 1 point, a boat that finishes 2nd earns 2 points, etc. - and the team with the lowest combined score wins. Teams either consist of two or three boats.
MATCH RACING
A match race consists of two identical boats racing against each other. With effective boat handling and prudent use of wind and currents, a trailing boat can escape the grasp of the leader and pass. The leader uses blocking techniques to hold the other boat back. This one-on-one duel is a game of strategy and tactics. This is like the America’s Cup pre-Larry Ellison. Think 12-metres and Ted Turner. It is one-on-one sailing.
There is no second place.
2
2 stands for
2 vs 2 Team Racing
Each team will race two boats with 3 sailors per boat. Spinnakers may be used. The thing to remember about 2v2 racing is the last boat loses; whichever team has the boat in last place at the finish loses.
1
1 stands for
1 vs 1 Match Racing
Each team will race one boat with 6 sailors. An owner’s representative appointed by the OA, may be onboard. It is one on one sailing. There is no second place.