So John... what do you do if they don't like your proof of insurance... go home? What recourse do you have?

I am hard pressed to see how this 2nd person confirmed its validity... (more likely... he said OK to your credentials being good enough since he was in charge)

It sounds like you passed a look and smell test. They did not verify that you had insurance.

I can live with this policy... It seems capricious to me... but. Ok..

The regatta organizer did not keep a copy of your information. That is essential. in the accident you report.. the two parties settled the issue as they should. If they couldn't settle it... the injured party could not go the regatta staff and demand information ... they did not have any.

I am curious
Why exactly do you feel more comfortable that the sailors on the water have insurance.. Do you care where the money comes from that pays for your injury?

Do you think they don't have the cash or resources to pay your damage?

What if the guy says... Ok.. I broke your boat... I will take it for a week and fix it myself!

It sounds to me like.. People think that if X has insurance they will be more honorable and settle up. I hope peoples integrity is not dependent on their insurance line or bank account