Forum: Rule 18 and Room at the Mark
RRS 18 - Part 1 - When RRS 18 Applies
P
Paul ZupanCertifications:
- International Judge
- National Judge
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Rule 18 (), starts with a statement of when it applies. The first sentence in Rule states that Rule 18 applies between boats when they are required to leave a on the same side and at least one of them is in in the . Simply put, the boats racing must be required to leave the mark on the same side, and one of them must be in the three-boat-length zone around the mark. Not too difficult.
However, there is a fairly lengthy list of exceptions:
- From the preamble to Section C: Section C rules do not apply at a starting surrounded by navigable water... from the time boats are approaching them to until they have passed them. So when the boats are on a final approach to start, rule 18 (and ) doesn't apply at the starting marks.
- Rule (a) between boats on opposite on a beat to windward. The rule doesn't apply at a windward mark until the boats are on the same tack.
- Rule (b) between boats on opposite when the at the for one but not both is to tack. This applies in very limited situations.
- Rule (c) between a boat approaching a and one leaving it. The boats don't need to be on the same leg of the course, or even in the same race, but only applies when both boats in question are approaching the mark or otherwise trying to get around the mark.
- Rule (d) if the mark is a continuing obstruction, in which case rule applies. When the mark is a "continuing obstruction," such as an island or bridge tower, rule 19 applies instead of rule 18.
Rule 18 applies to everything else that falls under the first sentence of 18.1. Next we'll talk about how 18.2 applies.
Comments
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The difference is in Clear Astern, Clear Ahead, Overlap - is "... when her hull and equipment in normal position ...". This includes any flying sail and pole used to conrol it. Much different than a hull length.