Racing Rules of Sailing Change

There have been a few changes to the racing rules. The main ones affecting us are:

Rule 16

Renumber rule 16 to 16.1 and insert new rule 16.2:

16.2 In addition, when after the starting signals a port-tack boat Is keeping clear of a starboard-tack boat, the starboard-tack boat shall not change course if as a result the port-tack boat would immediately need to change course to keep clear.

Rule 18.2(b)

Replace rule 18.2(b) with:

(b) If a boat is clear ahead when she reaches the two-length zone, the boat then clear astern shall thereafter keep clear. Rules 10, 11 and 18.2(a) do not apply, and after the starting signal rule 16 applies only if the right-of-way boat changes course away from the mark or obstruction. If the right-of-way boat passes head to wind, rule 13 applies and this rule no longer does.

The main effect of these changes is to limit some of the freedom of a right of way boat to change course that was given in the new rules.