Ratings, Rules, Race Management
What is SMS?
SMS stands for the Sportsboat Measurement System. It is a rating system used for sportsboat racing that calculates handicaps based on physical measurements of the boats rather than past race performance. This system provides an objective rating for boats based on their design and specifications. More information on SMS can be found at the official website: Sportsboat Measurement System (SMS).
Why Do We Need SMS?
The SMS rating system is used to ensure fair competition by objectively rating boats based on their physical attributes. It eliminates the subjectivity and variability caused by differences in crew skill, weather conditions, and past race results that are factors in other systems like PHS (Performance Handicap System). SMS is particularly well suited for Sportsboat-specific regattas and formal competition settings where fairness by design is the priority.
How to get Started with SMS?
To race with our fleet, you need an SMS.
- Chose to renew yourself, or with the fleet.
- If with the fleet, fill in the Google sheet.
- Early September, revalidate the SMS cert. The usual cost will be 70 AUD.
- Pay your dues to fleet secretary (anno 2025 is Russ Parker) before mid September.
NOTE!! If you change owner, or boat name, etc… you need to amend the SMS as well. Check the link for more info.
2025-26 AMS AND SMS FEE STRUCTURE:
| Certificate Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Initial Certificate: | $80.00 |
| Amended Certificate: | $70.00 |
| Change of boat name/owner | $40.00 |
| Revalidated Certificate: | $70.00 |
| Copies of a certificate: | $40.00 |
| Fast turnaround (3 Days) extra fee: | $40.00 |
| Review of certificate | $70.00 |
| Test certificate | $40.00 |
SMS vs. PHS
SMS is ideal for events focused on measuring boats' performance capabilities, while PHS is better suited for casual club racing with diverse boat types and crew skills.
| Aspect | SMS (Sportsboat Measurement System) | PHS (Performance Handicap System) |
|---|---|---|
| Basis of Handicap | Calculated using physical measurements of the boat | Adjusted based on past race performance |
| Dynamic Adjustments | No, ratings are fixed unless re-measured | Yes, handicaps change after each race |
| Subjectivity | Objective and based on boat design | Subjective, affected by crew skill and conditions |
| Ease of Use | Requires detailed measurements and calculations | Simple and requires no measurement |
| Application | Sportsboat-specific formal competitions | Club-level racing, mixed-fleet casual competition |
| Fairness | Focuses on boat design and measurements for fairness | Attempts to equalize skill differences |