I had a similar situation at the F-18 Canadian Nationals where I was the PRO.
After the racing, I was approached by one of the Quebec teams and asked if I was going to DNF the two or three boats (out of 37) that didn't make the weather offset mark in one race. I replied, "No, I can't (citing rule A5), but you are welcome to protest them if you wish." They said, "No - you must protest them! We don't want to make enemies!"
I said, "We didn't witness it from the signal boat, but my weather mark boat operator could be a witness for you in the hearing." They still didn't want to protest.
I already knew about it - because the weather mark boat reported it when it happened and was keeping track of sail numbers. They were all back-of-the-pack sailors who were having a bad day.
Personally, I'm against the RC protesting competitors, unless I personally witness an egregious foul and/or a question of sportsmanship.
However, my MBO's are meticulous note takers and will be happy (well maybe not happy; you're cutting into their beer-drinking time by requesting their presence in the room) to be your witness when you (as a competitor) file your protest.
I was recently in a situation where I never saw the off set mark! My view was blocked by other boats! I assume I rounded it, but when you're in traffic and trying to raise the spin alone, anything can happen.
Personally, I think all officials should be able to file protests. In all the major league sports, calling fouls is one of their primary responsibilities.
