A starboard boat squeezed between two of us downwind and we all hit — who's penalised?
Rule 10 still rules downwind: on opposite tacks, the port-tack boat keeps clear of starboard. Both port boats had to keep clear and both broke it. A boat that is racing is never a continuing obstruction, so that defence fails (Rule 19). Under Rule 14 the two port boats could have avoided contact and didn't; the trapped starboard boat could not, so she is exonerated. Both port boats disqualified.
📖 Want Rule 10 in more depth? Elvstrøm Explains the Racing Rules 2025-2028 sets out every rule with plain-English explanations and diagrams. (affiliate link)
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<p><a href="https://sailing.kiwi.nz/v/ameV_CpwHvA/">Source: Sailing Kiwi</a></p>Go deeper: books and gear
- Elvstrøm Explains the Racing Rules 2025-2028 — Every rule, with plain-English explanations and diagrams.
- 100 Best Racing Rules Quizzes by Dave Perry — Rules scenarios to test yourself on, with the answers.
- Racing Rules Companion 2025-2028 by Bryan Willis — Spiral-bound pocket guide to the current rules.
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