I tacked inside the zone at the windward mark and got trapped — how is it my foul?
Because once you pass head to wind inside the zone with a starboard boat fetching the mark, every line you sail is a losing one. Under Rule 18.3 you must give mark-room to the boat that was fetching, and as windward boat you must keep clear under Rule 11 — you did neither, so you're disqualified. The boat forced onto the mark is exonerated under Rule 43.1(b). The mistake isn't the luff — it's the tack. (World Sailing Case 95.)
📖 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/yoEziUerfLs/">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.
- The Rules in Practice 2025-2028 by Bryan Willis — Situations round the racecourse, worked through for the current rules.
- Tactics Made Simple by Jon Emmett — Racing tactics, explained simply.
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