The St. Kilda Challenge passage race uses electronic tracking of all entrant vessels and is a condition of entry. The data collected allows us to record the time start and finish lines are crossed and ensure compliance with any exclusion zones or virtual way points. Note that entrants must also record their own start and finish times alongside details of any vessels ahead and behind at the start and finish. More importantly it also allows us to provide an additional level of safety for entrants.
The key points entrants need to know are;
Trackers can be collected from Rathlin Island via yacht Intuition. If you are berthing at Ballycastle please get in touch with the race office on 07887612649 to arrange to be paired up with your tracker.
Trackers must be turned on as soon as they are received by the skipper. They should be mounted securely on the binnacle or other secure point above deck. The guardrail should be avoided if possible. The tracker must have a clear view of the sky at all times.
To turn the tracker on press both LEFT and RIGHT buttons together, and then press the UP button to turn the tracker on (Enable). When turned on you should see the screen light up showing a YB Tracking logo temporarily. Ensure the tracker is securely put back in the pouch.
To turn the tracker off press the OK button to enter the menu and then use the keypad to scroll down to deactivate and then select and confirm with OK.
Trackers should remain on until they are handed over to yacht contender at St. Kilda. If yacht Contender is not available please pass to another yacht in the race who can forward to yacht Contender.
Trackers are fitted with an SOS button. Activation of this button is achieved by holding it down for five seconds. Please note that this will result in a message being sent to the race office advising that the button has been activated. The race office will then advise the coastguard. In an emergency situation skippers should not rely on the use of the red button to request assistance.
Details on how to track the race for those ashore who may wish to follow it can be found here.
Recording Your Times
It is the responsibility of the skipper on each yacht to record the time at which they cross the start and finish line in the vessels log. Additionally you should record any vessels immediately ahead and behind at the start and finish line.
Times must then be submitted using the digital office by 16.00 on 13 June 2021 which can be found here. If internet access cannot be obtained by the submission deadline the information can be sent via text to the Race Office on 07887612649
