Having spent a few hours at the sharp end of race organisation, I have every sympathy when the OOD is forced to cancel an event. Although the racers would probably not object to a "bit of rain", the event is usually only cancelled/postponed when conditions would render unsafe operation of the rescue boat. This is more to protect the rescue crew from having to sit in the boat for what seems like a very long time. They would be wet (100% waterproof clothing IS available but costs a fortune), they can't wear gloves to pick up slippery wet boats so the wind chill feels like minus 10. Apart from being extremely uncomfortable, they risk their health!
An easy way would be to dispense with the rescue boat, but if conditions are so bad, the models are going to be all over the place! I would not have relished the thought of my boat (even with flotation and 100% (?) waterproof radio box, sitting upside down for part of the race in the line of fire from any boats that do manage to keep going after a fashion.
To cancel a race is a difficult decision that is not taken lightly, and is always a bit of a gamble regarding the weather. In most cases it has proved to be the right decision.
This is, after all, a hobby which is meant to be enjoyed by all (and usually is) but not at the expense of the welfare of the volunteers.
Cheers
Danny
BMPRS Honorary Member