Rule 42

Originally posted by Skiffybob Surely if the battens don't pop then you get no forward drive out of pumping anyway. The only opportunity to gain from it is on the singe occasion when they do finally pop, so I would think that there's not a problem in how mnay times it takes you to pop them.

Dont tell this pilot there's no forward drive when ya battens don't pop.

Originally posted by Skiffman They even tried getting rid of rule 42 in over 7 knots in the 49er like the finn, 470 etc. Would like to seem someone pump a 49er in over 7 knots and make it go faster...

That's a good reason *to* switch off rule 42 in 49ers in over 7 knots, isn't it?
Why have a rule where none is needed?

Class rules may change rule 42 (see rule 86.1c) National authority prescriptions and sailing instructions may NOT change rule 42.

When class rules permit Appendix P5 "rules O and R" may apply. Note that P5a only permits class rules to allow pumping, rocking and ooching".

There is in effect a problem with Juries - often because classes do not insist on having qualified judges at enough events. Just like sailors, judges need time on the water, they need time on the water with other judge so that they can evolve a consistent interpretation. A problem can arise when a class only encounters qualified judges at one or two events per year. The judges do not kow the class, and the sailors do not know how rule 42 is being interpreted.

Onc again, the answer to most rules related problmes in a class - get qualified judges involved. Appointing a class judge for the season can work.

Gordon

Some time ago I gave this interpretation of rule 42.

"he ISAF interpretations of rule 42 define a flick as the effect caused by body movement or pulling in or releasing a sail that is so abrupt that the normal shape of the sail is changed and almost immediately returned to the original shape.

When you agitate a sail to tack the top batten the sail is not returned to the original shape. Doing this once would not break rule 42.2(a). However if the action propels the boat with the effect of one stroke of a paddle you would be breaking rule 42.1"

I requested confirmation from a recognised rule 42 guru - my interpretation has been confirmed. It was also stated that there is a wish to write into the rules or interpretations a specific exception to rule 42 relating to popping battens and battens stuck on forestay.

In the meantime, if there is a specific and recurring issue in a class the reccomended procedure would be to write a question to the Jury/protest committee. They should then post on the official notice board an interpretation that thye should apply at the event. It sound somewhat bureaucratic, but may avoid problems.

Gordon

1. if you try to initiate planing but fail you have not broken rule 42

2. Rest assured, any problme we cannot solve on htis forum will end up being discussed with the "appropriate authority" - who may be a member of the Racing Rules Committee.

Gordon