Section E - The Windward Mark
MR CALL E4
Rule 11, On the Same Tack, Overlapped
Rule 16.1, Changing Course
Rule C2.9 (18.2(a)(1)), Giving Mark-Room (overlapped)
Definitions , Mark-Room (rule C2.2)
Question
Blue and Yellow approach the windward mark overlapped on port tack with Yellow
to leeward and on the layline at the zone. Before Yellow rounds the mark she luffs
head to wind. Blue responds to the luff and keeps clear. Flag Y is displayed. What
should the call be?
Answer
Display the green and white flag.
Blue is required by rule 11 to keep clear and by rule C2.9 (18.2(a)(1)) to give markroom,
and she does so. When Yellow luffs, she is not sailing within the mark-room
to which she is entitled; therefore rule 16.1 requires her to give Blue room to keep
clear. However, nothing in the rules prevents Yellow from sailing above her proper
course while the boats are rounding or passing the mark.