We missed by inches with no contact — so I kept clear, didn't I?
No. Keep Clear is a defined term: the right-of-way boat must be able to sail her course with no need to take avoiding action. The starboard boat had her helm hard over and slipped past by inches — that is avoiding action. So even with no contact, the port boat failed to keep clear and broke Rule 10. The starboard boat's last-instant swerve was protected under Rule 14 and Rule 43.1(a). Bear away early enough that she never has to react. (World Sailing Case 88.)
📖 Want more situations like this one? Bryan Willis's The Rules in Practice 2025-2028 works through the rules as they happen round the racecourse. (affiliate link)
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<p><a href="https://sailing.kiwi.nz/v/GucVYKK4VTY/">Source: Sailing Kiwi</a></p>Go deeper: books and gear
- The Rules in Practice 2025-2028 by Bryan Willis — Situations round the racecourse, worked through for the current rules.
- 100 Best Racing Rules Quizzes by Dave Perry — Rules scenarios to test yourself on, with the answers.
- Sailing sunglasses — Cut the glare off the water.
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