I crossed the finishing line — did I actually finish?
Not always. World Sailing Case 128 covers two traps. First, a boat that does not sail the course — her track, drawn taut like a string, fails to pass a mark on the required side — and doesn't correct it is scored NSC (did not sail the course) directly by the race committee, no protest needed (Rule 28.1, A5). Second, a boat that touches a mark as she crosses still finishes and is scored in her place under Rule A4 — touching the mark breaks Rule 31, but that only costs her if she's protested.
📖 Want Rule 28 in more depth? Elvstrøm Explains the Racing Rules 2025-2028 sets out every rule with plain-English explanations and diagrams. (affiliate link)
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/q3aDA8xcKMc" title="Sailing Kiwi" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<p><a href="https://sailing.kiwi.nz/v/q3aDA8xcKMc/">Source: Sailing Kiwi</a></p>Go deeper: books and gear
- Racing Rules Companion 2025-2028 by Bryan Willis — Spiral-bound pocket guide to the current rules.
- Elvstrøm Explains the Racing Rules 2025-2028 — Every rule, with plain-English explanations and diagrams.
- Sailing sunglasses — Cut the glare off the water.
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