There are currently 5 “sanctioned” regattas on the MC circuit. All others are referred to as “regional” regattas. All regattas posted on the MCSA web site are considered “official”. The distinction between the two categories has more to do with the degree of MCSA involvement, prestige, attendance, and weighting for National standings.

Listed below in outline form are some of the differences between sanctioned and regional regattas (and a few of the steps necessary to host a sanctioned event):

1. Currently five:
   1. Midwinters,
   2. Nationals,
   3. Masters,
   4. Youth, and
   5. Blue Chip.
2. All competitors must be current members of MCSA.
3. A $5.00 discount must be offered to US SAILING members.
4. MCSA will provide the following assistance:
   • Regatta Organizational Guidelines;
   • Notice of Race published in Touch of Class;
   • On-line posting of Notice of Race and registration;
   • Perpetual trophies;
   • Review and approval of NoR and Sailing Instructions;
   • $150 remuneration for PRO; and
   • Audit of final results.
5. The host club will be responsible for administration and staffing of the event, organization of related activities, and financial risk. All revenue is retained by the host club net of a $10 per boat fee paid to MCSA.
6. Potential venues are reviewed and selected by the MCSA Board several years in advance of the event. In addition to having a local fleet with the desire, skill sets, and facility to host a sanctioned event, criteria considered by the Board when selecting a venue is its potential drawing power and maintaining a geographical balance from year to year. In the case of the Masters and Nationals, the number of competitors could be in the 60-120 range.
7. Clubs wishing to host a sanctioned event should contact the MCSA Executive Secretary for preliminary consideration. A written proposal might be requested by the Board and should include but not necessarily be limited to the following:
   1. Geographic location and available sailing area.
   2. Typical winds and weather for the proposed dates.
   3. PRO/RC staffing to include rescue boats.
   4. Available dry/wet sail space to include shuttle boats.
   5. Vehicle parking.
   6. Housing accommodations.
   7. Plan for spectators (both on shore and water).
   8. Clubhouse facilities (to include kitchen prep area, dining, lounge area, and restrooms).
   9. Proposed meals and social activities.
   10. Pricing [registration; meals (Skipper & guests; included and ala cart)]
   11. Trophy design, categories, and quantities.
   12. Provisions for boat and sail measurement.
   13. Internet Access for on-line/on-site registration.

1. Scheduled, planned, and controlled by local MCSA chartered club. It is recommended that MCSA and US SAILING guidelines be followed for the Notice of Race and Sailing Instructions. All profits are retained by the host club and no accounting provided to MCSA.

2. MCSA will provide the following assistance: Regatta packet; NoR and on-line registration ($5.00 discount to MCSA members required); mailing labels to targeted zip codes; Touch of Class and on-line posting of regatta results, pictures, and article. Discount for US SAILING members recommended but not required.