Weather Routing Scoring
Shetland Race Introduces ORC Weather Routing Scoring System for 2025 Edition
In an exciting development for the upcoming Shetland Race, organisers have announced the introduction of the ORC Weather Routing Scoring system for the 2025 edition. This innovative approach promises to bring a new level of precision and strategy to the annual sailing event from Bergen, Norway to Lerwick, Shetland and back.
The ORC Weather Routing Scoring system employs advanced simulation technology to optimise the race experience for every participating boat. Just hours before the race begins, simulations will be run for each vessel using its specific ORC polar curves alongside the latest weather forecasts and routing data provided by PredictWind. This method allows for tailored predictions that account for the unique sailing capabilities and conditions of each individual boat.
What to expect
Participants can expect a more accurate and fair competition.
The Race Scorer will utilize the most recent weather forecast to generate the handicap number based on each boat’s tailored data from the ORC measurement database, providing a competitive edge while maintaining the friendly spirit typical of the Shetland Race.
As the countdown to the race approaches, competitors are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the new system, which aims to enhance the overall racing experience. The introduction of the ORC Weather Routing Scoring system marks a significant step forward for the Shetland Race, making it more dynamic and equitable for all participants.
With this new scoring method set to debut in Shetland Race this June 2025, the sailing community is buzzing with anticipation. Competitors will not only have the opportunity to test their skills against the stunning backdrop of the Northern seas but will also engage in a race that brings more opportunities to win for every participant, with a scoring that is more finely tuned to their individual boats, sailing profiles and forecasted weather conditions.
Updated Notice of Race
For additional information on the Shetland Race and updates on the 2025 event, prospective participants should stay connected as preparations continue towards another thrilling chapter in this enduring maritime tradition.
The Notice of Race has been updated to reflect the scoring method change, and to align with Norwegian Sailing Federation’s preferred format.
You can find the updated NoR here: https://sailracesystem.no/regattasystem/regatta/meny/9136/NoRShetlandRace2025_WS_20250424.pdf
More info
https://orc.org/sailors/news-archive/orc-weather-routing-scoring
Weather Routing Scoring (Norwegian)
Thomas Nilsson om Weather Routing Scoring (Norwegian)