HCP Handicap

The HCP Handicap is the unique handicap assigned to a specific boat.  If a boat is sailed without modifications from the manufacturer, then this handicap will be the same as the BHCP handicap for that design.

Many factors come into play when determining adjustments to the BHCP resulting in the HCP value.  Some of these include:

Hull Modifications
If the keel on a boat is replaced with a custom made keel, or if a bulb is attached to a keel, the stability and pointing ability of the boat may be changed and this could result in an adjustment from the BHCP.  Often times, a shoal draft keel will result in a credit, based upon the assumption that the boat will not point as high as a deep-draft version when beating to windward.

Propeller Type
The BHCP for a boat assumes a folding or feathering propeller.  If the boat has a fixed propeller installed, a credit will be given.  The specific credit varies based upon the number of propeller blades and whether or not it is installed within an aperture. 

Rig Modifications
For example, if the mast on a boat is replaced with a new mast of different dimensions or different composition, is is very likely that an adjustment to the BHCP value will be made. For instance, if an aluminum mast is replaced with a carbon fiber mast with different weight and bend characteristics, it will affect the stability of the boat and the ability to shape the sails and will result in an adjustment.

Over-sized Sails
In general, MWPHRF assumes that a boat carries a 155% genoa, unless the one-design rules for that specific boat set a smaller limit.  The BHCP value is assigned based upon these limits.  But, if the owner chooses to use larger sails, such as a 165% genoa or a mast-head spinnaker (when the standard design is a fractional spinnaker) an adjustment will be made. A mainsail with excessive roach will also result in an adjustment.  

Furling Sails
A credit may be applied when furling sails are used, but are not standard equipment on the boat.  Credits may be given for an in-mast furling or luff furling mainsail.  A credit may be applied for a roller furled headsail if specific criteria are met.  Specifically, the roller furling headsail must not be standard equipment and the furling drum must be above the deck.  The boat must always use a furling headsail while racing to qualify for the credit.  

Conversion from a Symmetrical Spinnaker to an Asymmetrical Spinnaker
An adjustment will be made based upon a number of factors.  If the new sail is simply tacked to the bow, a credit will be given.  If attached to a sprit or prod, an adjustment will be made based upon the length of the sprit/prod.  The size of the sail is also a factor.  Adjustments will be made for  asymmetric spinnakers with an area greater than the standard symmetric spinnaker for the boat.

Missing Data
Handicaps will be adjusted (penalized) if data is missing from the application.  This is done because the regional handicapper is unable to determine if, for example, the mainsail has excessive roach.  The best way to avoid a penalty for missing data is to supply as much information as possible and to ask your sailmaker to provide the critical dimensions of all of your sails.  (He knows what is needed.)

Note: For detailed information on how each of these adjustments in calculated, click here..

(Click here to return to the Understanding Your Handicap page.)