About
TackTracker is a specialized GPS-based yacht race tracking and analysis solution designed for sailors, coaches, sailing clubs, and event organizers. By capturing precise GPS data from all participants, TackTracker lets users replay races, uncover tactical insights, and identify opportunities for improvement — all from a clear, visual interface. The platform supports both live tracking (real-time race monitoring) and logged tracking (post-race upload and replay), making it flexible for a wide range of use cases from club racing to elite coaching programs. World Champions, Olympic Gold Medallists, and their coaches have used TackTracker to accelerate athlete development with objective, data-driven feedback. Sailing clubs can deploy live tracking for their fleets, enabling coaches and sailors to review races together immediately after finishing. TackTracker also powers Navigation Rallies for motor boat clubs, bringing structured competitive formats to a broader audience. The TackTracker Cloud hosts thousands of boat races and events, providing a rich repository of tracked data accessible via web browser. Compatible hardware includes GPS devices from brands like Qstarz and Meitrack, and the platform is supported across Windows PCs, Macs, web browsers, iOS, and Android. A dedicated knowledge base, user guides, training videos, and a developer API round out the ecosystem, making TackTracker a comprehensive end-to-end solution for competitive sailing.
Key Features
- Live GPS Race Tracking: Monitor races in real time with live GPS tracking, allowing coaches, organizers, and spectators to follow all boats simultaneously on screen.
- Post-Race Replay & Analysis: Upload logged GPS data after a race to replay every maneuver, tack, and gybe with precise positional accuracy for in-depth tactical review.
- Coaching & Performance Insights: Visual data tools help coaches and athletes identify where time was gained or lost, supporting faster skill development at all levels from juniors to Olympians.
- TackTracker Cloud: A cloud-hosted platform storing thousands of races that can be accessed via web browser, enabling sharing and collaborative review from anywhere.
- Navigation Rally Support: Purpose-built support for motor boat Navigation Rallies, extending TackTracker's tracking capabilities beyond traditional yacht racing.
Use Cases
- A sailing coach uses TackTracker's post-race replay to review fleet positioning and tacking angles with junior sailors after each training session, accelerating skill development.
- A yacht club deploys live tracking during weekly club races so that committee members, coaches, and spectators can follow the fleet in real time from the clubhouse.
- An elite Olympic campaign uses TackTracker to record and compare practice races, identifying consistent patterns in boat speed loss and tactical decision-making.
- A motor boat club runs Navigation Rallies using TackTracker to fairly score and replay route adherence and timing across all participants.
- An individual sailor reviews their own logged GPS data after a regatta to pinpoint where they lost ground to competitors on specific legs of the course.
Pros
- Proven at the Highest Level: Used by World Champions and Olympic coaches, TackTracker has a track record of delivering measurable improvement for elite and recreational sailors alike.
- Multi-Platform Accessibility: Works across Windows, Mac, web browsers, iOS, and Android, ensuring sailors and coaches can access race data on virtually any device.
- Flexible Tracking Modes: Supports both live and logged tracking, making it adaptable for club events needing real-time feeds as well as individual training sessions reviewed offline.
- Extensive Support Resources: Comprehensive knowledge base, user guides, and training videos help new users get up to speed quickly without needing specialist technical knowledge.
Cons
- Paid & Quote-Based Pricing: Pricing is not publicly listed and requires a quotation request, which may create friction for individuals or small clubs with limited budgets.
- Hardware Dependency: Effective tracking requires compatible GPS hardware (e.g., Qstarz, Meitrack devices) which adds additional cost and setup complexity for new users.
- Niche Audience: The platform is purpose-built for sailing and motor boat racing, offering little utility outside of on-water competitive sports contexts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of events can TackTracker support?
TackTracker supports yacht club racing, individual sailing training, coaching sessions, competitive regattas, and motor boat Navigation Rallies. It can be tailored to suit individual sailors all the way up to large sporting events.
Does TackTracker require special GPS hardware?
Yes, TackTracker works with compatible GPS devices such as those made by Qstarz and Meitrack. The TackTracker shop provides hardware options, and the team can advise on the best setup for your needs.
Can I use TackTracker for live race monitoring?
Yes. TackTracker offers a live tracking mode that allows coaches, clubs, and spectators to follow boats in real time during a race, in addition to post-race logged replay.
What platforms does TackTracker run on?
TackTracker is available on Windows PC, Mac, web browser, iOS, and Android, giving users flexibility to access their race data across different devices.
How do I get pricing for TackTracker?
Pricing is available on request. You can visit the TackTracker website and use the 'Request a Quotation' option, or contact the team directly to get a solution tailored to your club or event.
