A match race can be described as a duel between two identically-matched boats with a winner and a loser.

When two boats are on the starting line, the race is called match racing. Match racing has its own set of rules, which are slightly different from the regular racing rules that create very close, aggressive competition in which collisions are certainly not rare.

Match racing also has on-the-water judging, with umpires doling out "instant justice" on the water.

Match racing is tremendously exciting to participate in. And, unlike watching other sailing competitions, match racing can be thrilling to watch.

Before the start, the boats vie for control, circling each other and trying to wipe each other off on spectator boats in an elaborate game of cat and mouse.

Course

• The match racing course resembles an oval shape with the Start/Finish line close to shore.
  
• The course consists of a starting line, between two marks, laid at right angles to the wind's direction.
  
• The boats begin from the starting line and sail upwind to the first mark to be rounded to the starboard (right side). The spinnakers are set, and the duel continues downwind to the second mark that is laid in close proximity to the starting line from 1/4 to 1/2-mile further up the course.
  
• The boats round the marks 2-3 times before the winner crosses the Finish line.

(courtesy of Swedish Match Tour)