SPORTSMANSHIP AND THE RULES
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 a boat breaks a rule and is not exonerated she will promptly take an appropriate penalty or action, which may be to retire.
Click here to read: The complete “Rules of Sailing 2021-2024”
Ten Racing Rule Commandments (from Hugh Hobden):
- Port keeps clear of starboard.
- Windward keeps clear of leeward.
- The boat astern keeps clear of the boat ahead.
- A boat Tacking or Jibing keeps clear of one that is not.
- Avoid collisions. Racing Rules are defensive to prevent collisions not offensive racing tactics.
- If you gain right of way or change course, give the other boat time to keep clear.
- The inside boat(s) at four boat lengths from the mark is entitled to room to round the mark.
- A boat that is backing up or not racing keeps clear.
- If you have violated a rule, take a penalty.
- It is better to give way than to spend hours in a protest room.
Dave Perry’s 100 Best Racing Rules Quizzes – US Sailing
These racing rules quizzes are done by an American sailor who is also a RRS expert. You might find them helpful and fun.