Blue water Certs.

[FSJunky]

I am going to be putting my name in the crew pool for the 2018 Vic/Maui Race. Right now I only have experience crewing in the local beer can races. What qualifications, and training should I get to be more competitive?

[Paul L]

From the Notice of Race

. 2.2. At least two-thirds of the crew including the Person in Charge must hold a valid certificate for
a World Sailing approved Offshore Personal Safety course, with an expiry date no earlier than
the finish time limit.

[FSJunky]

went to USA sailing, and could not find one of those course's being offered. any idea where I could find one?

[jackdale]

Originally Posted by FSJunky

went to USA sailing, and could not find one of those course's being offered. any idea where I could find one?

Monitor the Vic Maui website for Safety at Sea courses.

Also subscribe to Shackles and Cotterpins, The Vic-Maui newsletter

Vic-Maui Yacht Race - Shackles & Cotterpins Newsletter

There will also be opportunities for return crews. (I may be bringing one back - PM me)

[jackdale]

Originally Posted by FSJunky

I am going to be putting my name in the crew pool for the 2018 Vic/Maui Race. Right now I only have experience crewing in the local beer can races. What qualifications, and training should I get to be more competitive?

You will also have crew on some of the qualifying races: Swiftsure, Southern Straits, Oregon Offshore, etc.. Too late for the Van Isle 360.

It is a downwind race. Experience as a spinnaker and mainsheet trimmer, and helmsman (especially at night) is highly recommended.

Experience is more important than qualifications.

[LTDsailing]

Sounds like good advice so far! I might also recommend an advanced first aid course like WOFR (Wilderness Outdoor Frist Responder) which focusses on what to do when you can't call 911.