During the 1986 (circa) Hobie 18 Nationals, the course was set in a nor'easter with the leeward mark right off the Quietwater Boardwalk. This configuration led to a port tack railroad, downwind to the leeward mark.

I served on the Protest Committee, and since I was only available after school - teaching hours, I was not on the water. I do recollect that for two days during the event I did not leave the "Room" until 0200 the next day. One Case in particular....

Four boats on port tack, (way overstood)almost overlapped, were attacked by a starboard tacker approx. two hundred yards from the leeward mark. The starboard tack boat persisted to maintain rights by hail. At least two vessels were so damaged as to force retirement. After a long deliberation, involving charter fees and insurance (plus the fact these boats were due at Fort Walton Yacht Club by the next Sunday for the Alter Cup) made the decision a titch complex.

When the starboard tacker found he was "in the wrong," he wanted an explanation. I told him that "he could have gybed inside and been first boat to the mark."

For Funny...A couple families from PYC took their students out of school for the day to watch the racing. They claimed the language at the leeward mark reminded them of a "Gang War."

Starboard Tackers, always be aware!

Aloha,
Bert