Racing rules

[Sailfree]

I was under the impression that going for the windward mark on port tack within 3 boat lengths was a no no but now having doubts.

Can someone clarify please.

Boat on starboard tack layline going for windward mark. Boat b comes in within 3 boat lengths on port. Boat b tacks clear in front of starboard boat but effect of disturbing air messes up first boat. It appears answer is tough luck if you can no longer make the mark?

 

[flaming]

Disturbing the air is tough luck.

If port tacks within 3 boatlengths of the mark and causes starboard to alter course above close hauled, or prevents starboard from passing the mark - as the alternative would be to crash into them - then that's a foul. But if there is no danger of a collision, then sliding in ahead and dumping durty air on them is just good tactics.

You should also note that if Starboard becomes overlapped inside Port, then port must give mark room.

In general the port layline is a nasty, risky place to be though.

 

[dt4134]

It's not a no no, it just takes a bit more skill to pull it off. And it is always risky if they protest.

Note you can legitimately make the starboard tacker alter course once you've completed your tack, you just can't force them above close hauled even if you need to shoot the mark. It is always possible they've overstood and have cracked sheets to lay the mark, or they've cracked sheets to close the door on you, so they may not be close hauled when you encounter them.

 

[Tomahawk]

I think Ainsley did a blinder like that in the last race..

Came in on port an a one boat length gap between two others on Stb.. Takes nerves of steel.. but legal..

(PS if it wasn't Ainsley it was one of the UK team)