Got a Racing Rules Headache? Let’s Solve It.

We’ve all been there — close crossings, messy mark roundings, chaotic starts, or those moments when everyone on board is sure they’re right and so is everyone on the other boat, but with a different opinion. Here is your chance to get clarity.

Send in your specific racing rule issue, and I’ll break it down, apply the rules, and give you a clear decision.

When you submit, include:

Event & Context

• Regatta name/club race/training session.
• Date and approximate time of the incident.
• Type of race (fleet, match, team, handicap).

Boats Involved

• Sail numbers, names, or designations (Boat A, Boat B, etc.).
• Type of boats (dinghy, keelboat, multihull).

Situation Description

• A step-by-step description of what happened.
• Wind conditions and course leg (e.g., upwind, downwind, approaching a mark).
• Distances and speeds, if possible (e.g., overlapped, one boat length away).

Diagram / Sketch

• A simple diagram showing the relative positions of boats.
• Mark locations, wind direction, and course line.
• Sequence of actions (before, during, and after the incident).

Rule References

• Relevant Rules (if known)
• Which Racing Rules of Sailing do you think may apply (e.g., Rule 10, Rule 18.2(b))?
• Any protest or hail that was made (“Protest!”, “Room!”).

Outcome

• Result of the Incident
• Contact or no contact.
• Damage or injury (if any).
• Did anyone take a penalty (turns or retirement)?

Supporting Evidence

• Additional Inputs (optional but helpful)
• Witnesses (crew, other boats, race officials).
• Photos, videos, or GPS tracks if available.

This isn’t just about rulings — it’s about learning, improving, and keeping racing fun and fair.

Please note that this is not an official judgment, as many other factors play a role, such as the timing of lodgement or other limitations as per the relevant sailing instructions.

Submit your scenario now and let’s sort it out!