Changes to meet ISAF Ocean category 2

I have been a scrutinizer for a race in Ocean Category  2 and most of the changes you will need to make are mainly safety items such as having wooden bungs next to each through hull fitting, enough flares and a proper life raft. The biggest issue will probably be having a good system to attach your trysail to the mast without removing the mainsail and a system of steering the boat if your rudder brakes. After inspecting 30 boats I haven't seen a good system for that yet but have heard some good storys about  spi poles and floorboards!

Have a good read through the requirements which can be downloaded from the ISAF web site. http://www.rolexmiddlesearace.com/database/documents/RMSR2008%20OSR%20%20Declaration+Checklist.pdf will be a big help too.  Good Luck!

Hi,
IMHO to be able to use the spi pole/cabinet door solution, one must have prepaired for it (and not wait until he stays without a rudder):
1)decide which cabinet door you will use and replace it with one made of double thickness plywood.
2)design, construct and test the brackets that will be used to attach the door to the pole. This can be in the form of truck fixing belts (with a ratchet mechanism to tension them) or steel plates screwd on the door and holding to the pole by collars.
3)design ,build and test the method of keeping the pole to the transom. Ropes or belts can be used.
4)find a way to move the pole. Keeping it with hands will not work, since the pole is big and cold. Usualy ropes attached to the winches are used.
4)test the result in water.

All the above stuff (besides the door) fits in a small box!
I have seen it on a friends boat who crosses the Atlantic four times a year.