Rating
This is what I understand about my rating...
Standard is 238 (definition of standard not clear)
I gain 9 seconds a mile for only racing with 100% jibs. (247)
I lose 3 seconds for having an oversized main (Code 5). (244)
I lose 3 seconds for having an oversized kite (Code 5) (241)
Grand total 241.
To make this more interesting, I just got rated for a code 6 main, so actually rate 238 when I use the bigger main.
Now, re. Nick's 256: I asked around, and this is what I came up with, (and Nick, you can answer some of this). The 256 is based on a small main and small kite. I would assume 9 seconds for each. It could well be an issue of an incorrect PHRF rating from your handicapper. I actually had my rating done a couple of times until we were satisfied that it was correct.
On another note, what happened? I saw you registered for Swiftsure, and was excited to see another Ericson 27 out racing... In fact, I think I saw your boat tied up in the inner harbor. We did see an Ericson 29 that was in our division, and saw them at the mark rounding in Clallam Bay, but that was it.
Nigel