Section 6: Scoring
6.1 Low Point Scoring System
The standard scoring system awards points equal to finishing position: 1st place = 1 point, 2nd = 2 points, and so on. The lowest total score after all races wins. Non-finishers receive penalty scores:
- DNF (Did Not Finish): Number of entries + 1 point.
- DNS (Did Not Start): Number of entries + 1 point.
- DSQ (Disqualified): Number of entries + 1 point.
- OCS (On Course Side / premature start): Number of entries + 1 point (if not corrected).
- RET (Retired): Number of entries + 1 point.
6.2 Discards
After a minimum number of races have been completed (typically 4–5), each boat may discard its worst result from the series total. In longer series, additional discards may be permitted (e.g., 2 discards after 10 races). Discards allow a single bad race or disqualification to be excluded from the total, rewarding consistency.
6.3 Medal Race Scoring
The Medal Race awards double points (1st = 2 pts, 2nd = 4 pts, etc.). Only the top 10 boats from the opening series qualify. No discards apply to the Medal Race. The Medal Race score is added to the opening series score (after discards) to determine the final standings. This format ensures drama and the possibility of position changes in the concluding race.
6.4 Tiebreaking
If two or more boats are tied on total points, the tie is broken by the number of first-place finishes, then second places, and so on. If still tied after this comparison, the result of the final race (Medal Race or last fleet race) breaks the tie.
6.5 Race Validity and Minimum Races
A regatta requires a minimum number of completed races to be considered valid (typically 3–4 for Olympic events). If weather or other factors prevent the minimum from being reached, the regatta may be extended or the scheduled discards may be reduced. Each race must be completed within a time limit (typically 1.5–2 times the expected finishing time for the leading boat); boats not finishing within a set percentage of the leader's time may be scored DNF.