The Chesapeake Bay had a nine second PHRF-base/ODR difference 18 years ago (3 sec 163% genoa, 3 sec oversized pole, and 3 sec larger spinnaker). I based my sail purchase on that difference in 1986 because there were few J/30s racing in Hampton, VA. I was on the PHRF handicappers board ~1989-1992. The total difference dropped to six seconds. Three J/30s were actively racing PHRF-base at that time. In 1998 I returned from three years in Charleston to find that the PHRF-base/ODR difference was zero! Throughout this time period
J/30 Class rules have been relaxed, allowing higher tech sails (note feedback poll on the J/30 web site). Something is amiss in the Chesapeake Bay. Several ODR boats have entered the Hampton arena. On the water experience shows that a nine second difference is about right.
