You are one length behind the leader heading for the gybe mark. Do you follow her in and round behind, or can you still get the inside?
Go high first, crossing behind her into clean air to build speed, then come down hard through her wake and get your bow past her stern. If you are overlapped inside when her bow reaches the zone, three lengths from the mark, she must give you mark-room (Rule 18.2(a)(1)). If you are leading, sail fast and straight: once she is overlapped inside at the zone you cannot shut the door.
📖 Want Rule 18 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/oy_YR7Q1_Q0/">Source: Sailing Kiwi</a></p>Go deeper: books and gear
- Tactics Made Simple by Jon Emmett — Racing tactics, explained simply.
- Elvstrøm Explains the Racing Rules 2025-2028 — Every rule, with plain-English explanations and diagrams.
- Racing Rules Companion 2025-2028 by Bryan Willis — Spiral-bound pocket guide to the current rules.
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