Section E - The Windward Mark
MR CALL E2
Rule C2.9 (18.2(a)(2)), Giving Mark-Room(not overlapped)
Rule 43.1(b), Exoneration (room or mark-room)
Question
Blue and Yellow approach the windward mark on port tack with Blue clear ahead at
the zone. The mark is to be rounded to starboard. After passing the mark, Blue
immediately gybes onto starboard tack. How far beyond the mark may Blue sail
before gybing and still be entitled to mark-room?
Answer
Blue is entitled to room to sail her proper course to round or pass the mark on the
required side (see rule C2.9 (18.2(a)(2)).
At position 3, Blue is on the next leg of the course and the mark is clear astern of
her. Therefore, Yellow has given Blue mark-room as required and rule 43.1(b) no
longer applies. If Blue gybes after this point, she will be subject to rule C2.6 (13.2)
and then rules 15 and 16.1.