RULES YOU NEED TO KNOW AROUND THE RACE COURSE
In this two-part series we cover the racing rules you need to know to be confident, safe and competitive in a sailboat race.
In this class series DAVE PERRY, a world renowned expert on the racing rules, will explain how the racing rules differ from the COLREGS, and what the rights and obligations of each boat are on the starting line, on the upwind and downwind legs, and around the marks. Dave will also explain how the penalty system works in sailboat racing, and will answer the participant’s rules questions.
WHO IS THIS CLASS FOR?
This class is appropriate for any sailor who will be entering a sailboat race, as a skipper or a crew. Dave Perry is an expert at explaining the rules for those new to them as well as for those with more experience. Crews who understand the racing rules will enjoy the sport more, and will be better able to anticipate what may be happening next in the race.
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
In this series, you will learn what it means to have the “right-of-way” and to be required to “keep clear.” You will also learn the meaning of several rules-specific terms such as “proper course”, “obstruction” and “mark-room.” You will learn that all boats are required to avoid contact, but sometimes boats are not penalized when they have contact. And you will learn how to take alternative penalties during the race.
TOPICS COVERED
- The four right-of-way rules
- The four limitations on boats while racing
- What it means to have “luffing rights”
- The special rules when rounding marks
- The special rules when passing obstructions
- The special rules on the starting line
YOUR HOST
DAVE PERRY
North U Coach & 2024 US Olympic Sailing Team Rules Advisor
Dave Perry has been racing and coaching his whole life. He was a two-time collegiate All American and National Champion, and is a five-time US match racing national champion. He has coached Youth, Women and Open Adult sailors of all levels, including Youth World Champions, Women’s Olympians, and several America’s Cup teams. He is the chairman of the US Sailing Appeals Committee, and was inducted into the National Sailing Hall of Fame in 2020. He is the Rules Advisor to the 2024 US Olympic Sailing Team.
