Sailing Instructions - start times/ failure of a s

Originally posted by Wetabix

   Glad you found a definitive answer to your original question. 

Originally posted by Wetabix

That's certainly my view - I can't think of another sport where the proceedings get under way before the match 'starts'. 

I think the warm up 'parade lap' in F1 and probably other motorsport formula are governed by certain rules and regulations although they are not technically 'racing' each other at that point.
Cycle road races frequently have a 'neutralised' section from a departure point until they reach the route where the race proper starts. 
In both instances there is still a compulsion on the competitors to complete this initial distance before the formal 'start' is undertaken.