Yacht match race simulation

There are many factors that can determine the winner of a yacht match race. The major factors include weather conditions observed during the race, tactical decisions made while sailing and the dynamic performance of each yacht. Weather conditions observed during the race can be modelled from actual weather data. Tactical decisions made while sailing can be modelled using logic that approximately simulates tactics that would be carried out during an actual match race. The dynamic performance for each yacht can be estimated using performance measures obtained from a velocity prediction program (VPP). After designating a course to race on, a simulation of a yacht match race could be run with two different yacht designs to determine the winner. By running the simulation many times in different weather conditions, the probability that one yacht design beats another could be estimated for that set of weather conditions. The simulation model could also be useful in the design process, giving the ability to look at different design tradeoffs, such as upwind speed versus downwind speed. It could also be used to help choose the most suitable portfolio of yachts to defend the America’s Cup. Finally, it could also be used to trial different tactical strategies whilst racing.