Contestants then converge on one of the Bay Area Yacht Clubs the morning of the race, submit their predictions to the Race Committee, pick up their assigned observer and proceed to the starting point of the race. When their selected starting time arrives, the observer collects all time pieces and the contestant commences the race. There are usually five check points on each race, and the contestant calls when abeam each point. The observer records the time and the checkpoint on a log, unseen by the contestant. At the end of the race, the contestant is provided with the exact time at each checkpoint and compares this data with the prediction.
Navigation is done by compass only.
Predicted log racing is a challenging and rewarding boating experience and sailboats as well as powerboats participate. The Predicted Log Racing Association of Northern California conducts seminars for interested yachtsmen.