Racing Rules of Sailing

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rules can get complicated

The Racing Rules of Sailing govern the conduct of yacht racing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, model boat racing, dinghy racing and virtually any other form of racing around a course with more than one vessel while powered by the wind. A new revision is published every four years (after the Olympic Games) by the International Sailing Federation, the world governing body for the sport. The current edition (2005–2008) came into effect on 1 January 2005.

1997 saw the most dramatic simplification to the Racing Rules of Sailing since the 1940's. They are based on the three main right of way rules;

(a) Boats on a Port Tack shall give way to boats on Starboard Tack (Rule 10).

(b) When boats are on the same tack, the boat to windward shall keep clear of a leeward boat (Rule 11).

In total there are 90 rules but (since the major simplification in 1997) only 12 rules govern what boats do when they meet on the water (part 2 rules). It is not necessary to know all of the rules to successfully compete in a dinghy race, however a knowledge of the basics is recommended. US Sailing Appeals Committee member, Dave Perry, has written an excellent book on the rules (available on amazon.com) called "Understanding the Racing Rules of Sailing Through 2008"

Sailboat racing is a self-policing sport. As stated by the Racing Rules of Sailing, "Competitors in the sport of sailing are governed by a body of rules that they are expected to follow and enforce. A fundamental principle of sportsmanship is that when competitors break a rule they will promptly take a penalty or retire." See [1]. Depending on the nature of the infraction, the penalty may be either (1) performing a turn consisting of one tack and one gybe or (2) performing two turns consisting of two tacks and two gybes (except for windsurfing). For most rules infractions, a competitor may absolve himself or herself from disqualification from the race by taking such a penalty. However, if she caused injury or serious damage or gained a significant advantage in the race or series by her breach her penalty shall be to retire. If the competitor fails to take appropriate action she may be protested by the race committee or, more likely, another competitor. If successful this will result in disqualification. The aforementioned principles do not apply to match racing (like the Americas Cup) where on the water umpires impose penalties immediately after an infraction occurs.