The Olson 30 originally raced as a MORC (Midget Ocean Racing Class) handicapped competitor. MORC is no longer a viable class and Olson 30's now complete in PHRF (Performance Handicap Rating Fleet) and One Design competitions. PHRF ratings are typically between 998-999 depending on location, IRC rating is between 0.967 and 0.983. As a demonstration of the boat's seaworthiness, various Olson 30s have sailed in races from Southern California to Mexico, across the Atlantic, and numerous trips from California to France In 1980, 1982, and 1984, Olson 30s competed in the Singlehanded Transpac, a biennial race from San Francisco to Hanalei Bay, Kauai, Hawaii. A combination of their relative low cost, speed, and strength has made them a favorite of singlehanded racers on the Pacific Coast.