Introducing ORC Light: A Simple, Entry-Level Certificate to Bring More Sailors into Racing

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11. Nov 2025

11 November 2025 - The Offshore Racing Congress (ORC), in cooperation with the Italian Sailing Federation (FIV) and the Italian Offshore Owners Association (UVAI), has introduced ORC Light, a simplified, entry-level handicap certificate designed to make it easier for boat-owners new to racing to participate in local regattas.

ORC Light is intended for boats that have not raced before and often spend most of their time in the marina. With this new certificate, owners can join club-level regattas without the need for a measurement, making the first steps into racing easier, faster, and more affordable.

Why ORC Light?

As Project Member Alberto Pindozzi explains:

“The main goal for FIV was to encourage boats that have never raced before to try racing for the first time. To do this, a very simple tool was needed. ORC Light provides a certificate that allows fair handicap racing and can be issued in real time, simplifying access to events.”

ORC Light provides a low-threshold introduction to handicap racing, giving sailors the chance to see whether racing is something they enjoy before deciding to move on to a full ORC Club or ORC International certificate.

How the Italian ORC Light Model Works

The pilot version introduced in Italy follows the structure proposed in the submission MANCOM1.

The certificate is issued using existing ORC database boat model data, meaning no boat measurement is required. The owner provides basic information such as:

  • Boat model and year
  • Standard sails (including whether a spinnaker is used)
  • Propeller/propulsion type

This allows the certificate to be issued by the organising club quickly and at a very low fee, making participation accessible.

  • To keep racing recreational and balanced at this level, the Italian model includes:
  • Limited validity (intended as an introduction, not a permanent racing certificate)
  • Restrictions on sail inventory and crew size
  • Use in local/coastal courses, rather than windward/leeward formats

These elements ensure that ORC Light remains simple, affordable, and fair, while encouraging sailors who enjoy racing to later progress to ORC Club or ORC International.

ORC light certificate
ORC light certificate

Adaptable for Other Countries

It is important to note that ORC Light is an easy entry-level framework, not a fixed global rule.

The Italian version is one possible implementation. Other countries may choose:

  • Different certificate fees
  • Different eligibility duration
  • Adjusted crew or sail limitations
  • Adaptations for local racing formats

All in consultation with ORC and their National Authority, ensuring both accessibility and rating integrity.

A Strong Alignment with ORC’s Mission

ORC Chairman Bruno Finzi highlights the significance of the initiative:

“The launch of ORC Light marks an important step in making our sport more open and accessible. By offering a simple and credible entry-level certificate, we give more sailors the opportunity to test local regatta sailing with a fair, science-based handicap without involving any measurement procedures.”

He also notes:

“We see the collaboration with the Italian Sailing Federation as a successful example of how ORC can work hand in hand with national authorities to grow participation in offshore sailing. The pilot project in Italy could easily become a model for similar partnerships in other countries.”

Next Steps

Several other National Authorities have already expressed interest in exploring ORC Light.

Countries will be supported individually to adapt the framework locally, ensuring that the certificate serves as a true gateway into ORC racing. National Authorities or clubs interested in ORC Light should contact: support@orc.org