Section M - The Umpiring Process
TR CALL M3
Rule D1.3, Penalties
Rule D2.3, Penalties Initiated by an Umpire
Rule D2.4, Signals by an Umpire
Question
Team A, B and C is approaching a port-hand windward mark on starboard tack in a
group. X has already rounded the mark, Y is on starboard tack just behind the group,
and Z is approaching the mark on port tack level with the group.
Z attempts to tack inside the group at the mark, and forces A, B and C to sail above
close-hauled and outside her at the mark.
As a result of the incident Y overtakes A, B, C and Z. Z completes a One-Turn Penalty.
X and Y, now clear in first and second, maintain these places to the finish.
Answer
When a boat breaks a rule and her team gains an advantage despite her, or another boat
on the team, taking a penalty, the umpires should penalize the boat that breaks a rule
under rule D2.3(c) without a protest by another boat. Clearly in this case Z’s team
gained a significant advantage as a result of Z breaking rule 18.3.
When no amount of extra turns can change the result of the race, the umpires should
also act under rule D2.4(c) by displaying a black and white flag and reporting the
incident to the protest committee. The protest committee may then act under rule
D3.1(e)(2) and increase Z’s points to reverse the on-the-water result.
The action of Z does not need to be deliberate.