Simple Racing Rules

I'm sure this will get ripped to shreds but this my slightly changed version of what Rupert said

These rules are written in the order that they are applied, i.e rule 1 takes precedence over rule 2, etc.

1.Stbd has right of way over port
2.Overtaking boat keeps clear (overtaking finishes when you are clear ahead)
3.Windward has right of way over leeward
4.Inside boat has right of way at marks or obstacles at 3 boat lengths distance of the longer boat (this is to stop people crash tacking in at the mark)

Further rules that apply to all of the above
a.You shall give time & room for the other boat to keep clear
b.You shall pass a mark as directed by the race committee. Touching a mark with the hull (only) is allowed
c.A penalty for breaking any of the above rules is a single tack & gybe immediately after each other (in either order) done as soon as poss

Originally posted by maxibuddah I'm sure this will get ripped to shreds but this my slightly changed version of what Rupert said These rules are written in the order that they are applied, i.e rule 1 takes precedence over rule 2, etc. 1.Stbd has right of way over port 2.Overtaking boat keeps clear (overtaking finishes when you are clear ahead) 3.Windward has right of way over leeward 4.Inside boat has right of way at marks or obstacles at 3 boat lengths distance of the longer boat (this is to stop people crash tacking in at the mark) Further rules that apply to all of the above a.You shall give time & room for the other boat to keep clear b.You shall pass a mark as directed by the race committee. Touching a mark with the hull (only) is allowed c.A penalty for breaking any of the above rules is a single tack & gybe immediately after each other (in either order) done as soon as poss d.Thou shalt not shout abuse at thy elders..

ftfy

Originally posted by Rupert Maybe we need a totally different set of rules for rotomoulded boats: Both tacks have right of way luffing and bearing away onto other boats is allowed Sailing boats into the bank is allowed At marks, there is no need for an overlap. If you can get your bow in, go for it This is a contact sport. The wearing of helmets is mandatory.

No, you'd have to say it politely. The voice could only be raised if distance was involved.

This coming from the person who has one of the shortest sailing fuses around...

Originally posted by Brass If you go on with this project, you need to be very clear what you are trying to do. These rules are developed to the point where they can be used defensively, as a shield, and aggressively  as a sword, and are so used by serious experienced competitors. The question is, do you wish to develop: a new set of rules to replace the present rules for general use, a set of 'beginners' rules that, smoothly or jerkily can lead on to the use of the 'proper' rules later on? My preferred approach is to develop a minimalist subset of simplified rules which will allow a beginner to keep out of trouble on a race course with other racers using the existing 'full strength' rules, while incrementally developing rules knowledge and skills so as to eventually make competitive use of the full set of rules.

Edited by Brass - 21 Aug 14 at 3:11pm