Technical Committee Evaluates F-TCF Scoring System
by Bermuda Race 9 Nov 06:22 PST
Comparison of F-TCF with PCS, St. David’s division © Jim Teeters
To ensure equitable scoring, the 2024 Bermuda Race implemented an innovative scoring approach known as F-TCF, or Forecast-Time Correction Factor.
F-TCF utilizes pre-race wind forecasts and Gulf Stream currents to establish handicaps that correspond to actual conditions. This method employs Expedition routing software and effectively adjusts for each boat’s anticipated performance, addressing the limitations inherent in traditional scoring systems like PCS.
After the Race, analysis of the system demonstrated that this methodology was particularly effective in equalizing competition among diverse boat speeds, making it a promising development for future events. The system is scheduled for use in the forthcoming 2025 Transpac Race.
Discover the complete review by Jim Teeters here.
