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RRS – Part III; Post #7 – Rule 32 (con’t)

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Often, we focus our rules discussions only on Part 2 of the rules – “When Boats Meet.”  This winter, I plan to explore the rules of Part 3 – “Conduct of a Race.”  They may appear to only matter to the Race Committee, but they have significant importance to the racing sailor too.  

– Steve Harris, US Sailing National Race Officer

Rule 32 - Shortening or Abandoning After the Start

Last week, we discussed the “abandoning” part of this rule.  This week, we’ll look at how the Race Committee can shorten the course under this rule.  If you didn’t read last week’s post, you can click here to do so.

Let’s look at the text of the rule…

NOTE – Rule 32 only applies after the start.  Rule 27.3 allows the race committee to abandon before the start for any reason.

 32.1

“After the starting signal, the race committee may shorten the course (display flag S with two sounds) or abandon the race (display flag N, N over H, or N over A, with three sounds)

  1. because of foul weather,
  2. because of insufficient wind making it unlikely that any boat will finish within the race time limit,
  3. because a mark is missing or out of position, or
  4. for any other reason directly affecting the safety or fairness of the competition,

In addition, the race committee may shorten the course so that other scheduled races can be sailed, or abandon the race because of an error in the starting procedure. However, after one boat has started, sailed the course and finished within the race time limit, if any, the race committee shall not abandon the race without considering the consequences for all boats in the race or series.”

 32.2

“If the race committee signals a shortened course (displays flag S with two sounds), the finishing line shall be,

  1. at a rounding mark, between the mark and a staff displaying flag S;
  2. a line the course requires boats to cross; or
  3. at a gate, between the gate marks.”

The reasons that the RC can shorten the course are, essentially the same as those for which they can abandon.  There are some key differences, however.  Additionally, Rule 32.2 provides specific guidance on how the course is shortened.

I won’t delve into the enumerated reasons for shortening under 32.1 as those were discussed in detail last week.  However, Rule 32.1 also provides the following:

“In addition, the race committee may shorten the course so that other scheduled races can be sailed…”

The reasons for this additional directive may not seem readily apparent.  But, simply put, there are often reasons to get more races in:

  • Most often, becuase the SIs require a minimum number of races – greater than 1 – to count as a series.
  • Sometimes, in a very competitive event, when scores are “tight,” it may be advisable to have more races rather than less, to give all competitors the greatest chance of finishing well over all.  (i.e., keep the competition on the water, not in the hands of the race or protest committees)
  • Generally, its felt that “saving the race” is a better option that abandoning.  It’s no fun spending a lot of time fighting for a good finish to have the race committee “throw the race away.”

That said, race officers are advised in their training to carefully consider all factors when making the decision to shorten.  Generally, course selection involves a number of good, well though out factors and changing that configuration “on the fly” by eliminating one or more legs may be counter to those reasons.  But, the rule does provide race committees with that flexibility nonetheless.

What does it mean to “Shorten the Course?”

This is actually a point of confusion for many competitors and race committees alike.  Intuitively, “shortening” implies keeping the course the same – same configuration, same number of legs & rounding marks, etc. – but making the distance less.  That is not the case here.

Shortening the course is the elimination of legs of the course.  What is described above is covered in RRS 33 – Changing the Next Leg of the Course (emphasis added).

Let’s look again at one of our “typical” courses at BLYC…

COURSES-2022-1

Under normal circumstances, sailing this course would entail the following (in order):

  • Starting
  • Rounding Mark 1
  • Rounding Mark 2
  • Rounding Mark 1 again
  • Finishing

But… what if the wind starts dying off (and quickly) as most boats are rounding Mark 2 to start their 2nd windward leg.  Looking at the reasons under which the RC is permitted to shorten…

  • Is it likely that the first boat will finish within the time limit?
  • If it is, is it still a fair race?
  • Is this race valuable to series (i.e., “so that other scheduled races can be sailed”)

It may, very well, be desirable to try and “save” this race by shortening the course at the next mark (Mark 1, 2nd time) by eliminating that last leg to the finish.

As a side note… one thing that has become increasingly common in recent years, is race committees utilizing this rule to “finish closer to home” at the end of a race.  That is, say in our Course C example above, the windward mark (Mark 1) is closer to where the boats are docked or hauled out.  Eliminating the final leg finishes them closer to home than having them sail the final leg would.  Certainly, it would be better if this was anticipated by the race committee and they chose a different course prior to the race instead, but that is not always feasible.  In doing this, however, what part of Rule 32.1 allows this?  I would contend that it could  be a reason “… directly affecting the safety or fairness…”  For example,

  • Dying breeze – s a result of dying breeze, boats will need to be towed in.  Towing a boat, even in light breeze and seas, is inherently  more dangerous than the boat being sailed (or motored) in under the control of its crew
  • Impending severe weather – while perhaps there is time to finish the boats by eliminating a leg, it is questionable whether or not there is time to finish and get the boats back to shore in time.
  • Lateness of hour – it may be desirable to shorten the race in order to allow all boats to finish before nightfall.  Depending on the boats competing, they may or may not have lights and other necessary safety equipment for night sailing.

How does the race committee shorten the course?

“… the race committee may shorten the course (display flag S with two sounds) …”

Code Flag "Sierra"

One interesting part of the rule is that there is no requirement as to when the flag and sound signal must be made.  It only needs to be made in enough time that the first boat approaching the new finish mark (in our example above, the “old” Mark 1), sees and hears the signal to finish.

This is another frequent point of confusion and misunderstanding for many racing sailors.  As we will see later with RRS 33 (Changing the Net Leg of the Course), those signals are made prior to boats sailing the leg.  That is not the case with Rule 32 – and, in fact, it is for a very good reason.

If the shortening signal (eliminating a leg) was required to be signaled earlier, it may be too soon or not soon enough – think of the reasons to shorten… foul weather, insufficient wind, safety & fairness, etc.  These are not things that can always be anticipated.  Doing so might result in the signal being made unnecessarily (conditions improve) or, worse yet, leaving the race committee with only one option – abandonment – in the case of severe weather & safety.

Often, when considering shortening, the race committee will get everything ready, just in case, and the PRO will make the call at the last minute and direct the mark boat to hoist the flag with two sounds as the first boat is nearing the mark.  How near?  Close enough to see and hear the signals, yet not too close for it to be effective.  Like many things with course management, it depends.

 32.2

“If the race committee signals a shortened course (displays flag S with two sounds), the finishing line shall be,

  1. at a rounding mark, between the mark and a staff displaying flag S;
  2. a line the course requires boats to cross; or
  3. at a gate, between the gate marks.”

Rule 32.2 gives us the guidance on how, specifically this it to be executed.  Let’s look at these one by one…

“1. at a rounding mark, between the mark and a staff displaying flag S;

This would be what we described in our Course C example above, the mark boat (or other boat signaling and taking the finishes) would set up such that competitors would finish between Flag S on their boat and the nearby mark.

As shown above, this would be the ideal way the mark boat would set up the new line.  It would be…
  • perpendicular to the course direction from the last mark
  • anchored in position
  • such that a boat rounding the mark as it “normally” would, it necessarily crosses the finish line without any need to sail the course differently than planned or intended
  • As this mark was to originally be left to port, they would still be leaving it to port while finishing properly
However, there is no requirement in the rule to meet the above conditions. Again this is an area where the rules give the race committee a great deal of flexibility.  Particularly if the course is being shortened for safety concerns, the race committee needs to be free to get things set up as quickly as possible.  That may or may not be set up in an “ideal” configuration. Note: It is perfectly acceptable and allowed under the rule for the mark boat to set up on the other side of the mark as shown below:

In the above situation, how would I finish properly?

You would finish according to Rule 32.2(1) – “…between the mark and a staff displaying flag S”

While, originally, you would have left Mark 1 to port – it is no longer Mark 1.  It is now a finish mark.

Recall the definition of Finish…

“A boat finishes when, after starting, any part of her hull crosses the finishing line from the course side.”

It may be tempting, or even seem necessary, to leave the mark to port (as you originally would have) and round it in order to cross the new finish line.  Doing so, however, would be improper.  You would be scored as DNF as you didn’t cross the line from the course side.

Before we look at 32.2(2), lets look ahead at what would happen at a gate…

 

“3. at a gate, between the gate marks.”

Although for our typical Sunday races we seldom use gates, most of us are familiar with them.  Most commonly used  for downwind marks, a gate (instead of being a single mark) is composed o two marks, which you pass between, rounding either one.

In the race committee signals a shortened course at the gate, rule 32.2 is easy to comply with – sail betwen them as you normally would.

32.2(3)

As shown above, this would be the ideal way the mark boat would set up the new line.  It would be…

  • perpendicular to the course direction from the last mark
  • anchored in position such that they can see both marks in order to judge the line properly
  • close enough to one of the marks that there is no confusion as to how to cross (i.e. there is no temptation to cross between the boat and the mark nearest to it)

Again, however, there is no requirement in the rule to meet the above conditions.

2. “a line the course requires the boats to cross”

Although the set-up and execution of 32.2(2) is easy enough to understand (it is, essentially, identical to 32.2(3)), this is often a very confusing part of the rule.  

Why would there be a line that boats are required to cross that isn’t already a gate?  In most sailboat racing, such a thing simply doesn’t exist.

I’m not sure that the situation I’m about to describe is what the writers were thinking when this was added, but we have a situation here at BLYC where we have taken advantage of this part of the rule – our Holiday Long Distance Races.

As you area aware our start/finish line for these races is usually in front of the race committee shack on the island and is comprised of two marks (rather than a mark and a flag on a boat).  In recent years, we’ve written the SIs for these races such that boats are required to pass through this line on all legs of the course.  Many think that this is so we can make the racing more interesting for the holiday spectators at the Club.  While that is an advantage for sure, it actually isn’t the primary reason that we did it.  Statistically speaking it doesn’t seem possible, but we almost always have light winds for the Holiday races.  By making boats cross the start/finish line on every leg, the race committee has the option to shorten the course at that line.  While those races are intended to be distance races.  That said, there comes a point that sailing for seemingly hours on end in light air is simply neither fun nor practical.

There’s a lot that we’ve unpacked from Rule 32 these past two weeks, but hopefully it’s a little more clear now as to how it works and some of its unique nuances.  

Next Week - Rule 33; Changing the Next Leg of the Course

RRS – Part III; Post #6 – Rule 32

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Often, we focus our rules discussions only on Part 2 of the rules – “When Boats Meet.”  This winter, I plan to explore the rules of Part 3 – “Conduct of a Race.”  They may appear to only matter to the Race Committee, but they have significant importance to the racing sailor too.  

– Steve Harris, US Sailing National Race Officer

Rule 32 - Shortening or Abandoning After the Start

There is a lot of stuff in Rule 32.  While shortening a course (eliminating one or more legs) and abandoning are similar, and definitely done for similar reasons, in practice, the two are quite different in how they work on the race course.

Keep in mind, most of the rules in Part 3 are tools that the race committee can use to keep races fair, safe, and easy to manage.  Rule 32 is very valuable in that sense.

Let’s look at the text of the rule…

NOTE – Rule 32 only applies after the start.  Rule 27.3 allows the race committee to abandon before the start for any reason.

 32.1

“After the starting signal, the race committee may shorten the course (display flag S with two sounds) or abandon the race (display flag N, N over H, or N over A, with three sounds)

  1. because of foul weather,
  2. because of insufficient wind making it unlikely that any boat will finish within the race time limit,
  3. because a mark is missing or out of position, or
  4. for any other reason directly affecting the safety or fairness of the competition,

In addition, the race committee may shorten the course so that other scheduled races can be sailed, or abandon the race because of an error in the starting procedure. However, after one boat has started, sailed the course and finished within the race time limit, if any, the race committee shall not abandon the race without considering the consequences for all boats in the race or series.”

 32.2

“If the race committee signals a shortened course (displays flag S with two sounds), the finishing line shall be,

  1. at a rounding mark, between the mark and a staff displaying flag S;
  2. a line the course requires boats to cross; or
  3. at a gate, between the gate marks.”
We’ll look only at the abandoning part of the rule this week and dive into shortening the course in the next post.

“… the race committee may…  abandon the race (display flag N, N over H, or N over A, with three sounds)”

Let’s start with how an abandonment is signaled. 

If we look at the “Race Signals” section of the Racing Rules of Sailing, we find that Flag N is used to signal that the race is abandoned.  

Code Flag "November"

The N Flag always goes up with three sound signals.

In fact, it is the only signal with three sounds.  As the name, abandonment, suggests, the race is over.  For whatever reason, the race committee has decided to end the race.

Although the sound signal is always the same, we have three options on the visual signal.

By itself, the N-Flag means the race is abandoned and the race committee intends to resail the race. – return to the starting area.

If N is displayed over the H-Flag, the race is abandoned and boats are to return to shore for further signals.

Code Flag "November"
Code Flag "Hotel"

If N is displayed over the A-Flag, the race is abandoned and there will be no more racing today.

Code Flag "November"
Code Flag "Alpha"

Rule 32.1 provides us reasons that the Race Committee is permitted to Abandon a race…

“… 1. because of foul weather, …”

This is primarily for safety considerations.  Foul weather might be an approaching storm, but it also could include high winds or sea state.  Either way, if conditions are not favorable, certainly if they are not safe, the race committee may abandon the race.  

There is frequently some debate on when, and under what conditions the race committee should or even must abandon a race.  Note that the rule is permissive, not prescriptive.  The racing rules provide no guidance or direction on conditions.  It is always the skipper’s responsibility to decide whether or not to sail.

Rule 3

“The responsibility for a boat’s decision to participate in a race or to continue racing is hers alone.”

That noted, there are limits to what is reasonable based on a number of factors – type of boats sailing, experience/age of the competitors, etc.  Some one-design classes have very specific upper wind limits and other restrictions in their class rules that provide guidance on this matter.  Other times, there is little or none.

“… 2.  because of insufficient wind making it unlikely that any boat will finish within the race time limit,…”

Often, but not always, a time limit written into the Sailing Instructions.  Usually, this is a time limit for the first boat to sail the course and finish.  When that is the case, absent other scoring provisions in the SIs, the race committee’s only choice at the expiration of that time limit is to abandon the race (RRS 35).

Here is when the shortening part of Rule 32 provides a convenient option, which we will discuss in next week’s post.

Note that the rules don’t prescribe that the time limit must expire before the race committee can abandon.  The use of the word unlikely gives them the leeway to do so earlier than the time limit if, in their judgment, they determine it to be the best option.

“… 3.  because a mark is missing or out of position, or…”

In all honestly, this is a horribly unfortunate reason to have to abandon a race.  The rules provide the race committee with options to replace a missing or out of position mark.  However, we all know that things don’t always go the way we plan.  There are times, that problems simply cannot be corrected.  Given the race committee permission to abandon in this situation, while unfortunate, gives the opportunity to regroup, reset, and try again.

“… 4.  for any other reason directly affecting the safety or fairness of the competition.”

There are those that might view this part of the rule as very nebulous and (unnecessarily?) generous to the race committee.  I’m not sure I would disagree.  However, the rules cannot possibly anticipate every situation that may arise.  Tying their hands, so to speak, by not allowing them to use their best judgment would likely make a bad situation worse overall rather than help correct it. So… what are examples of reasons that might “directly affect the safety or fairness?”
  • An error in the starting procedure
    • Normally, in this situation, if the race hadn’t started, a postponment would be in order.  If the race had started, a general recall would be best.
    • However, if it had been more than a few seconds since the start, an abandonment is likely the more appropriate option.
  • A significant windshift that favors some, but not all, of the fleet – particularly on the first windward leg.
    • It’s easy to dismiss windshifts as “just part of sailboat racing.”  However, doing so can also introduce chance as a significant factor, rather than skill
  • An obstruction in the course
    • This is certainly an area of  degree of how much it affects fairness or safety.
    • Does a disabled powerboat in the course affect the fairness of the competition?  Possibly.
    • Does a capsized boat affect the fairness?  Does it affect safety?
  • Traffic
    • In areas with active ports and shipping channels, traffic, particularly commercial traffic can introduce significant safety concerns.
    • While this type of traffic is typically scheduled and, therefore can be anticipated, things don’t always go according to schedule.
  • What else?  The list is probably endless.  What is important is that the race committee is considering these and other possibilities and are prepared to act appropriately.  Safety and Fairness are PRIMARY responsibilities of the RC.

What do I do if the RC signals an abandonment?

Obviously, stop racing and, depending on what exact abandonment signal was given (N, N over A, or N over H) either return to the starting area or to shore.  

Stopping racing is not, however, your only consideration.  Most race committees attempt to use all the tools at their disposal to “save a race” – shortening, changing the length of a leg, etc.  Abandonment is often used as a last resort, and as such, often due to safety concerns.  Watch the weather!  Look around the course!  If you have one, monitor your VHF radio!  Is there a safety concern to be aware of and possibly act on?

That brings up another rule, new in the 2021-2024 rulebook…

Rule 37 – Search & Rescue Instructions

“When the race committee displays flag V with one sound, all boats and official and support vessels shall, if possible, monitor the race committee communication channel for search and rescue instructions”

This is new in the most recent rulebook, but it reflects a renewed focus on safety both on the part of World Sailing and its member National Authorities (e.g., US Sailing).  Likely, it is more directed towards “big boat” sailing where VHF radios are standard, often required, equipment and they are more likely to be sailing in challenging conditions.  Still worth pointing out here as abandonments are often related to safety concerns.

We plan on holding a “Mini” Safety at Sea Seminar at the Club later this winter focused on safety and safety procedures.  It’s always good to think ahead about these things.

Finally… there’s this to consider…

“… However, after one boat has started, sailed the course and finished within the race time limit, if any, the race committee shall not abandon the race without considering the consequences for all boats in the race or series.”

Again, this seems very vague and nebulous.  It’s likely intended to be so as well.  The Racing Rules of Sailing give Race Committees a wide latitude in decision making – one simply cannot anticipate every possible situation that might occur on a race course.  It seems like the rule should read something like this… “after one boat has sailed the course and finished within the race time limit, if any, the race committee shall not abandon the race.”  On the surface, that seems to be more “fair.”  (I’m not 100% sure, but I believe in (much) older versions of the rules, it may have been that way.  The problem, however, is that it ties the race committee’s hands and forces any questions, etc. to go to the Protest Committee and a Redress Hearing – not always the most expeditious option – should the RC still choose to abandon a race after some boats have finished.

Consider the following examples:

Late in a race, after some boats have “started, sailed the course, and finished within the time limit,”  a strong storm blows in over the racing area.  Perhaps it was an unexpected pop-up, or it was anticipated, but arrived early.  It doesn’t really matter.  The RC determines that it is unsafe to continue racing for those still on the course and abandons.

I would think most of us agree that this would be a proper action of the RC, even if it is unfortunate for those who have already finished.

After a race in which there was a significant, permanent wind shift (60°+), the Race Committee “second guesses” their decision to let the race continue.  They decided that that fact, along with their inaction to preserve the race by changing a leg, or shortening the course, made the race inherently unfair and abandons the race after the fact.

The RC is perfectly within their authority in doing so.  The rule only requires them to consider the consequences… it doesn’t proscribe any specific action that they may or may not take based on that consideration. 

That said, the better course of action for the Race Committee may have been to “wait and see.”  If the competitors have an issue with the fairness of the race, they are permitted under Rule 62.1 to request redress based on an “improper action or omission” by the race committee.  If the competitors don’t request redress, but the PRO still feels strongly about the race turning out to be unfair, he or she is permitted under Rule 60.2 to request redress on behalf of the competitors.

While it may seem like a “cop-out” to say “let the Protest Committee make the decision and take the heat,” it also may be the more prudent choice.  RC’s aren’t always perfect, and good RC’s know that and are willing to admit (or at least consider other viewpoints) when they have perhaps made a mistake.

These are just two examples (purposely a bit obvious as to the proper action.)  There are a lot of “gray areas” in making the decision to abandon after the finish.  The US Sailing Race Management Handbook offers the following advice to race committees:

“Because of the significance of a race committee’s decision to abandon a race in which one (or more) competitor has finished, the only justifiable reason for taking such action is safety considerations.”

As there are exceptions to any rule, there are certainly exceptions to this advice as well.  But, safety is quite obviously a good reason to abandon a race after some boats have finished.  Abandoning after all boats have finished likely should be a function of the Protest Committee such that the determination of “fairness” and “consequences” is not left to just one person (the PRO), but rather several people who have the knowledge, expertise, and judgment to make a well-informed (even if unpopular) decision.

Next Week - The rest of Rule 32; Shortening Course after the Start...

Sportsmanship in Sailing

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happy thanksgiving

to all our Buckeye Lake Sailing & Boating Friends

Today, we gather with friends and family to be thankful for all that we enjoy.  Included in that is likely our wonderful lake, our boating community, and the friends we make.

In that spirit, we share the following article from SailZing

Sportsmanship in Sailing: Ten Behaviors to Model

written by SailZing Editor
You haven’t won the race if in winning the race you have lost the respect of your competitors.
– Paul Elvstrom

Sportsmanship in Sailing: Challenge and Opportunity

Sailing is a self-policing sport, which presents both a challenge and
an opportunity. The challenge? Sportsmanship becomes essential. If the
competitors don’t follow the rules, the game becomes frustrating for
everyone. The opportunity? We get a unique chance to build a key life
skill.

Growing Sportsmanship

You don’t become a “good sport” overnight. Pick out some key behaviors and try them out. Then add more. SailZing reviewed dozens of articles about sailing sportsmanship to come up with 10 of these behaviors .

1. Know the Rules

You have to know the rules, and sailing has lots of them. Learn the rules in stages, starting with the basics and getting more advanced as you gain experience. Check our post on Racing
Rules of Sailing: The Best Learning Resources. Watch for more posts about rules on SailZing.

2. Follow the Rules

When you sail competitively, you agree to follow the rules (see Rule 4 in the Racing Rules of Sailing). You also agree to the fundamental principle of sportsmanship, which is that when you break a rule, you must promptly take a penalty.

If you break a rule, don’t wait for another competitor to call you out. There are plenty of inspiring stories about sailors who took a penalty after breaking a rule that no one else noticed. These sailors gained much more in respect than any positions they lost in the race. 

Here are two examples:
Peter Barrett – 1964 Olympics
Sam Rogers – 2012 E Scow Blue Chip

3. Enforce the Rules

You don’t have to go out on the water looking for people who are breaking rules. But, when you see someone break a rule and not take their penalty, find a way to call it to their attention. If they fouled you, you may end up protesting that boat. If they fouled someone else, talk to them politely after the race.

4. Be Courteous

Thank the race committee, regatta organizers, your competitors, and any friends, family and coaches who helped get you to the starting line. This goes a long way to creating a positive racing atmosphere.

5. Be Fair

Don’t try to use the rules like a zombie, automatically yelling “no room” or “starboard” for every encounter. Give others the benefit of the doubt. Apply the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.” 

Here’s a great story about fair sailing by an Opti sailor:
Smith Displays Sportsmanship and Killer Instinct – from the Royal Gazette

6. Be Honest

Honesty means recognizing the truth and dealing with it. If you messed up, admit it and learn from the mistake. Covering it up may work for the moment, but does nothing for your long-term growth (or your conscience).

7. Communicate

Instead of getting mad at a competitor, communicate. You have a better chance of breaking down barriers and learning something this way. You might also make a new friend. 

Here’s a great story about that:
Sportsmanship and Communication are Key – Reaching Ahead Blog

8. Move On

If you get fouled, don’t ruin your race by remaining angry. Protest if needed. Then concentrate on finding the next puff or shift.

9. Help and Encourage Others

Helping and encouraging others is a win-win: your competitors appreciate you, and you feel good about yourself.

  • Congratulate other sailors for good races
  • Be positive with your crew
  • Teach something you learned that might help someone else
  • Work together while launching and pulling out

10. Be Prepared

If your boat is in good shape and you have have all the equipment you need for racing, you’ll be less dependent on others. You’ll also be less frustrated about “unfair” situations (like a breakdown caused by poor maintenance). Less frustration means better sportsmanship!

Sportsmanship Articles

Here are some articles on how to become a better sport and build sportsmanship in your club.

Win With Style. Lose With Style – Sailing Scuttlebutt. More insights into individual sportsmanship.

Small Boat Sailing: Teaching Sportsmanship – U.S. Sailing. Ideas for instructors.

Click Here to visit SailZing for more resources

RRS – Part III; Post #5 – Rule 28

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Often, we focus our rules discussions only on Part 2 of the rules – “When Boats Meet.”  This winter, I plan to explore the rules of Part 3 – “Conduct of a Race.”  They may appear to only matter to the Race Committee, but they have significant importance to the racing sailor too.  

– Steve Harris, US Sailing National Race Officer

Rule 28 - Sailing the Race

   28.1

“A boat shall start, sail the course, and then finish . While doing so, she may leave on either side a mark that does not begin, bound or end the leg she is sailing. After finishing she need not cross the finishing line completely.”

   28.2

“A boat may correct any errors in sailing the course, provided she has not crossed the finishing line to finish.”

This seems simple enough, right?

Well, not exactly.  Before we dig into the text of the rule, in order to fully understand this rule (and the many nuances to it) we also need a good understanding of the definitions of start, finish, and sail the course.  The definition of rule provided in the Racing Rules of Sailing is pretty broad – “The rules in this book, including the Definitions, Race Signals, Introduction, preambles and the rules of relevant appendices, but not titles…”  (Yes – the definition of rule defines that the definitions are also rules.  Don’t spend too much brain power on that one – it just is what it is.)

Let’s start with those definitions and then break this rule down too…

Start

 A boat starts when, her hull having been entirely on the pre-start side of the starting line at or after her starting signal, and having complied with rule 30.1 if it applies, any part of her hull crosses the starting line from the pre-start side of the course side

This one, we discussed in detail in the post on Rule 29 – Recalls. 
If you need to review, CLICK HERE.

Finish

A boat finishes when, after starting, any part of her hull crosses the finishing line from the course side. However, she has not finished if after crossing the finishing line she
  1. takes a penalty under rule 44.2,
  2. corrects an error in sailing the course made at the line, or;
  3. continues to sail the course.

As with seemingly everything else in the racing rules, there are a few interesting nuances here.  Numbers 2 & 3 under this definition particularly apply to how Rule 28 works.  Essentially, to finish, one crosses the finish line from the course side .  But this definition also allows for correcting errors in sailing the course… more on that as we look closer at the rule.

Sail the Course

A boat sails the course provided that a string representing her track from the time she begins to approach the starting line from its prestart side to start until she finishes, when drawn taut,
  1. passes each mark of the course for the race on the required side and in the correct order,
  2. touches each mark designated in the sailing instructions to be a rounding mark, and
  3. passes between the marks of a gate from the direction of the course from the previous mark.

This is commonly called the “string rule” and I’ll refer to it that way in our discussion of Rule 29.

We’ll Start at the Beginning and Break Down Rule 28.1

“A boat shall start, sail the course, and then finish…”

Makes sense, right?

The course will be published in the Sailing Instructions and should be clear as to course configuration, mark descriptions, and on which side marks are to be left.  The RRS requires this under J2.1:

(4) the course(s) to be sailed, or a list of marks from which the course will be selected and, if relevant, how courses will be signalled;
(5) descriptions of marks, including starting and finishing marks, stating the order in which marks are to be passed and the side on which each is to be left and identifying all rounding marks (see rule 28.2);

A typical course, that we use at BLYC may be illustrated like this…

COURSES-2022-1

Click Here for the Course Descriptions for the 2022 SOS series.

“…While doing so, she may leave on either side a mark that does not begin, bound or end the leg she is sailing…”

This part may be confusing…

Reworded and simplified, if there is a mark that isn’t part of the leg on which you’re sailing, ignore it.  

In our “Course C” illustrated above, we see this.  On the first windward leg (from the start to mark 1), Mark 2 does not “begin, bound, or end the leg”  you’re sailing on.  You can leave it on either side… For that matter, you can run it over (Please don’t run over our marks though.  They’re not indestructible and they’re expensive to replace.)

“…After finishing she need not cross the finishing line completely.”

Simply put, you only need to “break the plane” of the finishing line in order to finish.  If we look back at the definition of finish, it tells us “A boat finishes when, after starting, any part of her hull crosses the finishing line from the course side.“

But, why then, don’t you have to cross completely?  There are situations where doing so may not be desirable.  For example, the finish line may be very near to an obstruction – a headland, a commercial shipping channel, etc.  It may be that there is a strong current pushing you down-course.  You don’t want to risk drifting back into the mark and touching it after finishing.  It may be better to break the plane, drift back below the line and bear off.  I am aware of one situation in particular where racing on the Niagara River in Buffalo, the finish line is sometimes downstream.  Going any farther north than necessary is not advisable – there is a rather precipitous drop ahead!  (and a sailboat is not a barrel)

Sometimes, we make mistakes…. 28.2

“A boat may correct any errors in sailing the course, provided she has not crossed the finishing line to finish.”

One great thing about the Racing Rules of Sailing is that that it provides many opportunities to correct errors.

Let’s look at another one of our standard BLYC courses.

COURSES-2022-2

Let’s assume, for the sake of explanation, that you are racing on Course H, but you initially miss that signal from the Race Committee.  You assume that you’re racing on Course C (as above).  Instead of sailing from Mark 1 to Mark 2 as instructed, you “skip” Mark 2, sail directly to Mark 3 and round it.  You have broken RRS 28.1

rrs28-a

But, RRS 28.2 allows you to correct that error.  In order to do, let’s go back and look at the definition of Sail the Course – AKA the “String Rule.”

Sail the Course

A boat sails the course provided that a string representing her track from the time she begins to approach the starting line from its prestart side to start until she finishes, when drawn taut,
  1. passes each mark of the course for the race on the required side and in the correct order,
  2. touches each mark designated in the sailing instructions to be a rounding mark, and
  3. passes between the marks of a gate from the direction of the course from the previous mark.

Imagine that, as you sail the course, you are trailing a “string” behind you.  This string lies in the water and shows the track your boat has taken. 

You have omitted Mark 2 in our example and that string, when pulled taut would not “pass” Mark 2 “on the required side” (1) nor would it “touch” that mark (2). 

rrs28-c

But, you can correct that error!  Simply “unwind” the string.

But… think about how you need to do that.  You can’t simply sail over to Mark 2, leave it on the required side, and sail to Mark 3.  If you did that, you wouldn’t have rounded the marks in the correct order. 

rrs28-b

However, if you sail back around Mark 3 – in the opposite direction – you can “unwind” the string and then sail to Mark 2, round it properly, and continue to race – rounding Mark 3 again, of course.

rrs28-d

If you now pull that “string” taut, you’ve rounded the marks, in the correct order, leaving them on the required side, and have met the requirements of Rule 28 and the definition of Sail the Course.

You sailed a lot of extra distance, but you have properly corrected the error.

This is just but one example…

There are all kinds of “what-ifs” that we could discuss, but we’d likely get very far off “in the weeds.”  Simply put – if you miss a mark of the course, THINK about how you have to “unwind” the string to comply with 28.2.  There are a number of World Sailing Cases that deal with Rule 28.  I’ll include those at the end of this post for those who may be interested in digging deeper.

But… then there’s this somewhat confusing exception in the definition of Finish to consider too…

“… However, she has not finished if after crossing the finishing line she

  1. takes a penalty under rule 44.2,

  2. corrects an error in sailing the course made at the line, or;

  3. continues to sail the course.”

This has a definite (and significant) impact on Rule 28.  That said, for the sake of brevity, I think it may better be a discussion for a later post.

Next Week - Rule 32; Shortening or Abandoning After the Start

World Sailing Cases that apply to RRS 28….

RRS – Part III; Post #4 – Rules 30.3 & 30.4

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Often, we focus our rules discussions only on Part 2 of the rules – “When Boats Meet.”  This winter, I plan to explore the rules of Part 3 – “Conduct of a Race.”  They may appear to only matter to the Race Committee, but they have significant importance to the racing sailor too.  

– Steve Harris, US Sailing National Race Officer

Rule 30 - Starting Penalties

Click Here for my intro discussion on starting penalties in the first post on Rule 30.

As we saw in Rules 30.1 & 30.2, the penalties in Rule 30 get progressively more restrictive as we move through the rule.  Reminder, sailing is somewhat unique in that if you start early, you usually have an opportunity to correct your error.  But, when we get deeper into the rule, that is no longer the case…

We’ll start with the U-Flag Rule, 30.3…

30.3 - U Flag Rule

“If flag U has been displayed, no part of a boat’s hull shall be in the triangle formed by the ends of the starting line and the first mark during the last minute before her starting signal. If a boat breaks this rule and is identified, she shall be disqualified without a hearing, but not if the race is restarted or resailed. “

Code Flag "Uniform"

Remember: Just as with the previous rules we’ve discussed, this rule changed slightly in 2021.  It used to refer to any part of the boat’s hull, crew, or equipment.  In order to clarify both the start and the finish, these definitions were changed to just the hull as it is easier to define and less potentially subjective.

Just as with Rule 30.1 and Rule 30.2, both of these rules apply to the last minute of the starting sequence.  It’s primary function is also to help the RC to control aggressive starts.  To invoke this rule, the RC will display Flag U in place of Flag P in the standard starting sequence (RRS 26)

This rule apply to the “triangle” that we discussed in the post on Rule 30.2…

RRS30.3-30.4

This rule apply to the “triangle” that we discussed in the post on Rule 30.2. Just as with the Z-Flag Rule, the RC is obligated to penalize any boats in the triangle in the last minute before the start.  The big difference now is that instead of a 20% penalty, a boat violating this rule is disqualifed and will be scored as “UFD” (U-Flag Disqualification).  Typically, this would be number of boats entered plus 1.  

30.3 is rarely used for several reasons.  First, it is a fairly extreme penalty.  Typically, race committees start with 30.1 & maybe 30.2 before “escalating” to 30.3 & 30.4.  Secondly, it’s relatively new in the rules, first appearing in 2017, and many racing sailors (and some race officers) aren’t familiar with it and its use.  It was “tested” for several years prior to its official adoption, but mainly for high-level events. However, it is starting to become more common. With fleets that are known to be aggressive on the start line, it is becoming increasingly more frequent to attempt a start under the P-Flag and then immediately escalate to the U-Flag after the first general recall.  This may seem extreme, but it is also inherently unfair to the boats that start properly to have a seemingly never ending series of “practice starts” and general recalls – sailors come to race!

Then… there’s the Black Flag…

30.4 - Black Flag Rule

“If a black flag has been displayed, no part of a boat’s hull shall be in the triangle formed by the ends of the starting line and the first mark during the last minute before her starting signal. If a boat breaks this rule and is identified, she shall be disqualified without a hearing, even if the race is restarted or resailed, but not if it is postponed or abandoned before the starting signal. If a general recall is signaled or the race is abandoned after the starting signal, the race committee shall display her sail number before the next warning signal for that race, and if the race is restarted or resailed she shall not sail in it. If she does so, her disqualification shall not be excluded in calculating her series score. “

Black Flag

So… What’s the difference?

With the U-Flag, if the “race is restarted or resailed” the penalty goes away.  In other words, if there is a general recall or abandonment, no worries… No Harm, No Foul.

With the Black Flag Rule, this is definitely not the case…

“… she shall be disqualified without a hearing, even if the race is restarted or resailed…”

If the race committee elects to start under the black flag and there is a general recall or abandonment after the start, the penalty “sticks” (just as the 20% penalty in Rule 30.2 carries forward).  This requires a great deal of attentiveness and good record keeping on the part of the race committee, but it also makes the rule very effective… start properly, or you will be penalized.

Obviously, in a general recall, the race committee will not have been able to identify all boats that broke the rule.  But, if they identified any of them, they are required under the rule to penalize them.  (See WS Case #111)

“If a general recall is signaled or the race is abandoned after the starting signal, the race committee shall display her sail number before the next warning signal for that race…”

This sentence puts an additional requirement on the race committee.  Since the disqualification doesn’t go away if the race is called back, those boats that violated 30.4 in the first start are not eligible to start again.  But, they may or may not know they were guilty of breaking the rule.  Particularly in a general recall situation, its nearly impossible for boats to know where they were on the line.  The RC must notify them, so that they don’t start again.

“… and if the race is restarted or resailed she shall not sail in it. If she does so, her disqualification shall not be excluded in calculating her series score. “

So what if the “guilty” boat thinks the race committee got it wrong?

She can certainly request redress later.  However, what she cannot do is restart the race.  If the race committee has made all of the proper signals and notifications, she has knowingly violated this part of the rule.  If she starts anyway, her BFD (Black Flag Disqualification) becomes a DNE (Disqualification Not Excludable).  Her disqualification can no longer be discarded from her series score – It Sticks!… and it sticks hard. 

Essentially, by restarting the race as an ineligible competitor, she will not be racing per the definition in the rules.  Therefore, she has no rights under Part 2 (“When Boats Meet”) over boats that are racing.  As such she is interfering with others.  At the very least, this is poor sportsmanship.

There are of course cases where boats have tried racing anyway because they believed that the race committee was wrong.  It never works out in their favor.  The proper action for them to have taken was to sit out the restart and file a request for redress after the day’s racing.  If they were found to be right and the RC indeed made an error, it is likely that they would be given redress by the jury (most likely average points of their other finishes).  However, once they violated the penultimate sentence of the rule, they broke the rule – regardless of the start that led to it.  (See WS Case #96)

Why Such a Harsh Penalty?

Believe it or not, the Black Flag Rule preceded the U-Flag Rule in the Racing Rules of Sailing.  Exactly how and when it came about is a matter of conjecture.  From my research, it first appeared some time in the 1970’s or 1980’s.  There are several stories out there as to how it came to be, but generally, most accounts involve a major championship in a very competitive class that was unable to get any races off due to very aggressive starts and an endless series of general recalls.  The rule was intended to be very severe.

Now that the U-Flag Rule is one of the tools available to race committees, the “nuclear option” of the Black-Flag Rule isn’t always necessary.  Some refer to the U-Flag Rule as “Black Flag Light.”  Essentially it does the same thing, just without the severity of 30.4.

Why Even Use the Black Flag?

Certainly, with all of the nuances in the rule, opting to use the black flag shouldn’t be an easy decision for the RC to make.  There’s a lot to keep track of, properly record, post, etc.  It shouldn’t be taken lightly.  When I was first assembling my race officer “go bag” with all the equipment needed to travel and run races as PRO, I didn’t even purchase a black flag – I honestly couldn’t imagine a situation that I’d use it.  That changed the first time I was PRO at a major Opti Championship.  Fortunately, the host club had a black flag in their RC gear – we needed it.  That evening, I returned to my housing, got on the computer and ordered my own.  There are situations that its necessary.  And, when used, it must be done correctly.

For a long time, though, I still considered it to be the “nuclear option” – a course of last resort only.  However, there are differing viewpoints on this and the “other side” has some very good points.  Several years back I was sitting with Olympic Sailing Gold Medalist Anna Tunnicliffe at a regatta banquet.  It was a youth regatta and she was the keynote speaker.  Having known Anna since she was a junior sailor and, being the PRO for the event, she and I were discussing her upcoming talk and she asked my opinion of topics that she might include.  This led to a discussion of starting penalties.  When I mentioned the Black Flag, her response was, “I LOVE the Black Flag!”  Confused that a competitor would say that, I queried why.  She said something to the effect that it gets the “posers” out of her way.  Those sailors who know how to start well, start well.  Those that don’t hang back.  In other words, the rule works.

Still, however, neither U or Black are a preparatory signal that you’re likely to see at a club-level event, or even at most larger regattas in our area.  But it’s always good to know how they work… just in case.

A Final Note…

Remember Rule 29.1 – Individual Recall?
It included the following sentence at the end…

If rule 29.2, 30.3 or 30.4 applies this rule does not.”

In the case of rules 30.3 & 30.4, there is no point in signaling an individual recall.  Boats violating this rule are already disqualified from the race.  There is nothing that they can do to change that fact.  The purpose of the individual recall is to allow boats to start properly.  On a start under P-Flag, I-Flag, or Z-Flag this is allowed.  Under U-Flag and the Black Flag, the result (disqualification) is already determined.  Restarting would be pointless.

Why not signal anyway so that the offending boats can “get out the way” of the other boats still racing? 

Over the years, I’ve heard several answers to this question.  Honestly, I’m not sure that there’s a good one that most sailors would accept and appreciate.  The best answer that I have is that in a black flag start – particularly if there are boats that violate the rule – there’s already enough going on to ensure that everything was signaled properly, recorded and documented.  Adding another signal (Individual Recall) that is, now, essentially meaningless, only complicates things further for both the race committee and the competitors.

Next Week - Rule 28; Sailing the Race

RRS – Part III; Post #3 – Rule 30.2

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Often, we focus our rules discussions only on Part 2 of the rules – “When Boats Meet.”  This winter, I plan to explore the rules of Part 3 – “Conduct of a Race.”  They may appear to only matter to the Race Committee, but they have significant importance to the racing sailor too.  

– Steve Harris, US Sailing National Race Officer

Rule 30 - Starting Penalties

Click Here for my intro discussion on starting penalties in the first post on Rule 30.

30.2 - Z Flag Rule

“If flag Z has been displayed, no part of a boat’s hull shall be in the triangle formed by the ends of the starting line and the first mark during the last minute before her starting signal. If a boat breaks this rule and is identified, she shall receive, without a hearing, a 20% Scoring Penalty calculated as stated in rule 44.3(c). She shall be penalized even if the race is restarted or re-sailed, but not if it is postponed or abandoned before the starting signal. If she is similarly identified during a subsequent attempt to start the same race, she shall receive an additional 20% Scoring Penalty. “

Code Flag "Zulu"
“It’s such a pretty flag.  We really ought to use it more often.”

– Overheard on a Race Committee Boat several years back.

Remember: Just as with the previous rules we’ve discussed, this rule changed slightly in 2021.  It used to refer to any part of the boat’s hull, crew, or equipment.  In order to clarify both the start and the finish, these definitions were changed to just the hull as it is easier to define and less potentially subjective.

Just as with Rule 30.1, Rule 30.2 applies to the last minute of the starting sequence.  It’s primary function is also to help the RC to control aggressive starts.  

Also, like we saw in Rule 30.1, to invoke this rule, the RC will display Flag Z instead of Flag P in the standard starting sequence (RRS 26)

So... What's Different?

Let's Break it Down...

“…no part of a boat’s hull shall be in the triangle formed by the ends of the starting line and the first mark during the last minute before her starting signal…”

Where Rule 30.1 referred to the line, and it’s extensions, this rule defines a new “No-Go” area – “The Triangle”

RRS30.2

This is different and certainly requires more attentiveness (and personnel) on the part of the race committee.  Now, instead of only being concerned with the starting line (or the line and it’s extensions), the “No-Go” area encompasses a large area of the course.  Ideally, the RC has people on the RC signal boat looking both at the pin end of the line and upcourse at the windward mark, others on the pin end of the line watching the RC end of the line and upcourse at the the windward mark, and still more at the windward mark sighting down to both ends of the starting line.  It can get quite cumbersome.  For these reasons, typically – certainly for club-level racing – the RC would go to Rule 30.1 first and if that doesn’t work, maybe escalate to Rule 30.2 (or a combination of the two).

But… remember it is the competitors’ responsibility to start properly!   This “No-Go” area is even more difficult (if not impossible) to properly sight on a moving boat – especially during the hectic last minute of the starting sequence.  

“…If a boat breaks this rule and is identified, she shall receive, without a hearing, a 20% Scoring Penalty calculated as stated in rule 44.3(c)… “

Another major difference is that if you are guilty of breaking this rule, you cannot avoid the penalty. (although you are still required to start properly even if you violated the rule).  “Shall” is prescriptive.  Even if the RC wanted to “let it go,” the rules require them to apply the penalty.  (See WS Case #111)

“… as stated in rule 44.3(c)… “

Calculating the penalty can get tricky.  The important thing to know about it as a racer is to know where to look to see how it was calculated – mistakes sometimes happen.

44.3 Scoring Penalty
(C) “…the penalty shall be 20% of the score for Did Not Finish rounded to the nearest whole number (0.5 rounded upward)… However, the penalty shall not cause the boat’s score to be worse than the score for Did Not Finish.”

“… She shall be penalized even if the race is restarted or re-sailed, but not if it is postponed or abandoned before the starting signal… “

Again, the rules remind us that a boat breaking this rule shall be penalized.  It also tells us that the penalty “sticks” – “…even if the race is restarted or resailed…”

In other words, a boat breaks this rule and…

  • There is a general recall and the race is restarted.  She still retains the 20% penalty “earned” in the first start attempt on her score for that race.
  • The race is abandoned – for any reason – and the race is resailed. She still retains the 20% penalty “earned.”

“… If she is similarly identified during a subsequent attempt to start the same race, she shall receive an additional 20% Scoring Penalty. “

WOW!  The rules are serious about this penalty!

Imagine the following situation…

During the starting sequence, Boat A is identified as being “in the triangle” in the last minute of the sequence.  Following the start, the RC cannot identify all boats that were OCS and signals a general recall.  Boat A carries a 20% penalty into the “restart”

The race is restarted and, once again, Boat A is identified as being “in the triangle” in the last minute of the sequence, earning another 20% penalty Following the start, the RC cannot identify all boats that were OCS and signals a general recall.  Boat A carries a 40% penalty into the “restart”

And then things get strange...

Very often, race committees will use both 30.1 and 30.2 together!

But, WHY? As mentioned previously, race committees will often start with the I-Flag rule (30.1) when going to a penalty start.  If they determine that 30.1 alone isn’t working, they’ll “add” the additional restrictions of 30.2.

What's my responsibility as a competitor?

Simply put, you have to comply with both rules.  More specifically, under Z-flag alone, you could still “dip” the line if you were in “the triangle” in that last minute.  Certainly, if you were in the triangle with 60, or maybe even 45 seconds to go, this may be a safe, even preferred option – you’d still have that 20% penalty, but you could do it. 

But… for the race committee – trying to properly manage the start and also be concerned about safety – keeping the I-Flag rule in place is typically preferred.  They don’t want to  set up a  situation that is sure to result in additional rules breaches and may also be unsafe (fair racing is a primary concern of the race committee, but safety is also their responsibility and should always take precedence!)

So, what about the Individual Recall?

Remember, Rule 29.1 only applies when “… at a boat’s starting signal any part of her hull is on the course side of the starting line or she must comply with rule 30.1…”  Therefore, it is entirely possible that a boat could have been in the triangle in the final minute before the start, but not on the course side of the starting line (or one of its extensions if I & Z are both used) at the start.  She will get the 20% penalty, even if she otherwise starts properly.  Again, like with the I-Flag Rule, the Z-Flag helps to prevent “dip starting” as you can’t be in the triangle in the final minute to do that without incurring a scoring penalty.  It also prevents a number of other start line tactics that may be effective under P, but are definitely not worth the 20% penalty under Z.

Why is the rule so Harsh?

Well, actually when we look at Rules 30.3 and especially at 30.4, it really isn’t.  Remember what I said in the post on Rule 29 – Recalls… Sailing is somewhat unique in that if you fail to start properly, you get to correct it and try again.  In football, it’s a 5-yard penalty; in soccer, the other team gets a penalty kick – a “free” chance to score; at the highest levels in track, it’s an automatic disqualification.

The point of starting penalties in sailing is to encourage sailors to “do the right thing” and start properly.  Remember, in most cases, we are a self-policing sport (no “referees”) and good sportsmanship should always govern our actions on the water.  Starting properly isn’t an exception to that ideal. 

But, Hey!  At least you aren’t disqualified, right?

You guessed it… Rules 30.3 & 30.4… Next Week

RRS – Part III; Post #2 – Rule 30.1

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Very often, when it comes to the Racing Rules of Sailing, we tend to focus most of our energy on the rules of Part 2 – “When Boats Meet.”  After all, most of the on-water interactions that we have are with other boats.  However, I will always contend that there’s really only one rule in Part 2 that you absolutely have to know – Rule 14 – “Avoiding Contact.”  If you aren’t sure you’re right… don’t put yourself in a potentially bad situation.  Even if you do know that you’re right… don’t put yourself in a bad situation.

The rules of Part 3 – “Conduct of a Race” are actually a lot more interesting.  These are rules that, if you don’t understand them, you can very likely be disqualified from a race.  They are pretty straightforward, but as with all of the rules in the RRS, they have their idiosyncrasies.

Over the next couple of months, I plan to explore these rules, one by one.  They appear to only matter to the Race Committee, but the RC doesn’t get disqualified for not complying with them, boats do.

– Steve Harris, US Sailing National Race Officer

Rule 30 - Starting Penalties

Rule 30 now has 4 parts – 30-.1, 30.2, 30.3, and 30.4.  The RRS calls them penalties.  Although if you don’t follow them, there is a penalty, I think of them more as restrictions.  As I mentioned in my last SLOG about recalls, I said that sailboat racing was unique compared to other sports in that if you don’t start correctly, you’re simply disqualified.  Sailing, however, if you start early, you can correct… usually.  That’s where these starting penalties come into play.

So, why do we have these “penalties?”  Simply put, sometimes people don’t start properly.  Particularly in a “high stakes” race, with a competitive fleet, people like to “push” the line.  While it each boat’s responsibility to start properly, it is also the race committee’s responsibility to enforce that.  With an aggressive fleet, this RC task is not always easy.  The point of Rule #30 is to give the race committee tools that they can use to help control the line.  

To start, we’ll discuss the most common one – Rule 30.1.  Sometimes called the “Round the Ends Rule.”

30.1 - I Flag Rule

“If flag I has been displayed, and any part of a boat’s hull is on the course side of the starting line or one of its extensions during the last minute before her starting signal, she shall sail across an extension so that her hull is completely on the pre-start side before she starts.”

Code Flag "India"

Remember: Just as with RRS 29, this rule changed slightly in 2021.  It used to refer to any part of the boat’s hull, crew, or equipment.  In order to clarify both the start and the finish, these definitions were changed to just the hull as it is easier to define and less potentially subjective.

If one looks at the definition of start and/or RRS 29, it talks about the start line – the definition of which we discussed in my last post.  30.1 adds the additional restriction of or one of its extensions.  Extensions are just as they sound… the extension of the start line from both ends, ad infinitum.

In other words, if you are anywhere above the start line, you must comply with this rule

“…she shall sail across an extension so that her hull is completely on the pre-start side before she starts.”

Typically, if you are on the course side (OCS) at the starting signal, you can “dip start” to correct yourself as shown in the video below.  The only requirement is that your hull is “completely on the pre-start side” prior to starting.

However, 30.1 adds a restriction that prevents you from doing this.  As show in the video below, you must “… sail across an extension..” until you are you completely on the pre-start side before starting. 

This is often called the “round the ends rule” as, essentially you will sail around one of the ends of the line – either the signal boat or the pin.  Once completely on the pre-start side, you can start through the line as normal.

The effect is simple – it discourages boats from starting aggressively in the middle of the starting line.  As the RC’s line sighters are typically at one or both ends, it makes it much easier to watch and keep track of boats that are OCS.  Generally, it works pretty well.  The penalty is graduated – it is much more severe for boats that are OCS near the middle of the line than it is for those nearer the ends.  

How is it signaled?  In the standard starting sequence, Code Flag P is used as the preparatory signal.  (If you need to review the starting sequence, review this post from last winter).  When RRS 30.1 is invoked, Code Flag P is replaced with Code Flag I.  It will go up at 4 minutes (preparatory signal) and down at 1 minute.

“…any part of a boat’s hull is on the course side of the starting line or one of its extensions during the last minute before her starting signal…”

During the last minute… up until the last minute, you can still sail above the line without penalty.  RRS 30.1 “turns on” in that final minute.  

Ever wonder why there is a “one-minute” signal in the starting sequence?  This is it.

If you notice, the “one-minute” signal is also different than the others in that it’s a long sound.  Why?… to draw your attention to it.  All of the variations of RRS 30 go into effect “during the last minute“  (There are also other rules that go into effect at this same time… we’ll save that for a later SLOG)

So… if you’re on the course side within that last minute, make sure that you cross an extension to return to the pre-start side.

Next week… Starting Penalties continued – Rule 30.2. Z-Flag Rule

RRS – Part III; Post #1 – Rule 29

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Very often, when it comes to the Racing Rules of Sailing, we tend to focus most of our energy on the rules of Part 2 – “When Boats Meet.”  After all, most of the on-water interactions that we have are with other boats.  However, I will always contend that there’s really only one rule in Part 2 that you absolutely have to know – Rule 14 – “Avoiding Contact.”  If you aren’t sure you’re right… don’t put yourself in a potentially bad situation.  Even if you do know that you’re right… don’t put yourself in a bad situation.

The rules of Part 3 – “Conduct of a Race” are actually a lot more interesting.  These are rules that, if you don’t understand them, you can very likely be disqualified from a race.  They are pretty straightforward, but as with all of the rules in the RRS, they have their idiosyncrasies.

Over the next couple of months, I plan to explore these rules, one by one.  They appear to only matter to the Race Committee, but the RC doesn’t get disqualified for not complying with them, boats do.

– Steve Harris, US Sailing National Race Officer

Rule 29 - RECALLS

Rule 29 has two parts – RRS 29.1; Individual Recalls, and RRS 29.2; General Recalls.  Something I’ve always found curious about sailboat racing is the fact that if you start early, you get to start over.  Try that in track & field, football, or just about any other sport.  The penalties for doing so are much harsher.

 

29.1 - Individual Recall

“When at a boat’s starting signal any part of her hull is on the course side of the starting line or she must comply with rule 30.1, the race committee shall promptly display flag X with one sound.  The flag shall be displayed until the hull of each such boat has been completely on the pre-start side of the of the starting line or one of its extensions and until all such boats have complied with rule 30.1 if it applies, but no later than four minutes after the starting signal or one minute before any later starting signal, whichever is earlier. If rule 29.2, 30.3 or 30.4 applies this rule does not.”

We’ll break this down into smaller chunks….

“When at a boat’s starting signal any part of her hull is on the course side of the starting line…“

Note: This rule changed slightly in 2021.  It used to refer to any part of the boat’s hull, crew, or equipment.  In order to clarify both the start and the finish, these definitions were changed to just the hull as it is easier to define and less potentially subjective.

What does it mean to be “on the course side?”

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“On the course side” (OCS) isn’t in the definitions in the RRS. Intuitively, it makes sense that its “over” the line. That said, it is (or should be) clearly defined in the Sailing Instructions.  Generally, it is defined something like this…. “The starting line will be between a staff displaying an orange flag on the race committee signal boat and the course side of the port end starting mark.”  The above diagram clearly shows this.  Too often, however, course diagrams aren’t as clear.  

From who’s perspective is being “on the course side” determined?

This is sometimes a matter of great debate.  The line is judged by a line sighter on the race committee signal boat.  Ideally, that person has a relatively fixed position relative to the line.  Given that their end of the line is a fairly small “line” (the staff displaying the flag), they have the best perspective to judge a really tight start.  Sadly, the perspective from the water on a racing boat is not necessarily a good one.  The boat is, be definition at an angle on the line (starting on either port or starboard tack, not directly into the wind), the boat is likely moving around a lot more than the RC signal boat (underway at speed for a good start, bouncing in choppy waters created by all the other boats on the line, etc.)  In other words, from the perspective of the boat that is starting, one simply cannot judge the line as clearly as can be done from the RC signal boat.  (See WS Case #136)

There are, of course, many other starting line configurations than the one shown above.  This one is likely the most common and certainly the simplest.  

“… or she must comply with Rule 30.1…”

What the Heck?  Rule 30.1 is the “I-flag” rule, sometimes referred to as “around the ends.”  Essentially, it is one of several starting “penalties” that the race committee may use to help control an aggressive start line.

There are 2 additional restrictions that RRS 30.1 puts on the start:
      The first deals with space – “…the course side of the starting line or one of its extensions…“
      The second deals with time – “…during the last minute before her starting signal…“

These will be discussed in more detail in a subsequent post.

” …the race committee shall promptly display flag X with one sound. “

This is a required signal!  Rule 29.1 is very specific that the race committee shall display flag X with one sound.  It is the responsibility of the racing sailors to start properly.  But it is also the responsibility of the race committee to signal properly.  If there isn’t a flag, or the sound is missing or absent, the race committee hasn’t properly signalled a recall.  

However, if they do, it is the responsibility of all premature starters to return to the pre-start side of the line and start properly.  Typically, the race committee will hail the sail numbers of premature starters.  However, they are not obligated to do so.  It is also very common for the sailing instructions to include a caveat absolving the race committee of any responsibility for this.  Something along the lines of the following is common…

“The Race Committee may attempt to hail premature starters. However, the following shall not be grounds for redress: failure to hail; the timeliness of the hail; failure to hear the hail; and, the order of the boats hailed.”

In other words, it is solely the boat’s responsibility to start (or restart) properly.

” If rule 29.2, 30.3 or 30.4 applies this rule does not.”

RRS 29.2 is the “General Recall Rule” which will be discussed next.  Obviously, you can’t have both types of recalls at the same time.  RRS 30.3 and 30.4 are other restrictions that the RC can put on the start.  In both cases, the penalty is disqualification.  If you’re already disqualified, you obviously cannot restart.

29.2 - General Recall

“When at the starting signal the race committee is unable to identify boats that are on the course side of the starting line or to which rule 30 applies, or there has been an error in the starting procedure, the race committee may signal a general recall (display the First Substitute with two sounds). The warning signal for a new start for the recalled class shall be made one minute after the First Substitute is removed (one sound), and the starts for any succeeding classes shall follow the new start.”

This is a bit more straightforward, however, it is also one of the most misunderstood rules by racing sailors.  Rule 29.2 is permissive, not required.  The key word in this rule is “may.”  The race committee is under no obligation to signal a general recall (as they are with RRS 29.1)  In fact, the recommended guidance taught in US Sailing’s Race Management Seminars is to avoid general recalls.  Sailors come to race, not to practice starts all afternoon.  Let’s break this one down…

“When at the starting signal the race committee is unable to identify boats that are on the course side of the starting line or to which rule 30 applies…”

The option to signal a general recall, calling the whole fleet back to restart, is predicated only on the race committee being unable to identify all boats that are on the course side.  Nothing more.  There are many myths and misunderstandings on this…

MYTH #1 – If more than 1/2 of the fleet is over early, the RC should signal a general recall.

FALSE – If the race committee can identify who is over, an individual recall is proper, regardless of the number of boats over early.

MYTH #2 – If the RC can’t identify all boats that are over early, they must signal a general recall.

FALSE – Sometimes a boat or two “slip through the cracks” and aren’t identified.  While not inherently fair to let that boat (or boats) start when they were OCS, its equally unfair to the boats that started properly to call everyone back.  The RC must weigh the disadvantages of each type of unfairness and use their best judgment.

MYTH #3 – If the RC signals a general recall, it’s because the racers “messed up.”

FALSE – Not necessarily.  The rule says “… or if there is an error in the starting procedure...” It isn’t necessarily the sailors’ “fault.”  Many of the rules in Part 3 are written in a way to allow the race committee to correct mistakes.  Rule 29.2 is one of them.  Typically, the first thing the RC should look at after a general recall is the starting line.  Often, a wind shift has made it less square, piling boats up at one end, or it may not be long enough for the size and number of boats trying to start.  It isn’t necessarily the racers’ fault.  But it does allow the RC to make changes to provide for better, fairer, more competitive racing.

“(Display the First Substitute with two sounds)”

An important note here…. Unlike RRS 29.1, there is no requirement to promptly make the signal for a general recall.  In fact, often the RC will signal an individual recall first, then “upgrade” to a general recall once they determine that they couldn’t identify all OCS boats.  The important thing to remember is that two horns and the First Substitute flag tells you to stop racing and return to the start area.

“The warning signal for a new start for the recalled class shall be made one minute after the First Substitute is removed (one sound)”

The final part of this rule deals with one other myth surrounding general recalls…

MYTH #4 – After a General Recall, the recalled class moves “to the back of the line” in start order.

FALSE – Not only does the rule explicitly state otherwise, there’s a very good reason for this.  The starting order is usually predetermined based on the classes sailing, their relative speeds, etc.  A good race officer takes a number of factors into determining the start order.  “Punishing” a recalled class by moving them to the end messes up that order.  In fact, sometimes, due to course management considerations, the race committee may even allow for a “wait period” before restarting to avoid boats in different classes interfering with each other on the course.

So, that might be a lot more detail than you were expecting from the rule, but as with most things in the RRS… “The devil is in the details.”

Next week… Starting Penalities – Rule 30.1. I-Flag Rule