Originally Posted by Mark P
If the Wayfarer was over the line at the start then he should return and re-start without interfering with any other boat racing. This didn't happen. However, because a collision occurred perhaps you should have done a 360 turn and then after the race protested for redress.


There are no grounds for redress. You need to review the four instances for which redress is possible - this is not one of them, since there was no injury or damage.

Also, a boat that is OCS retains all their rights until they start sailing back towards the line (Rule 21.1)

The Wayfarer, as windward boat is obligated to keep clear of both the F16 and the FF (Rule 11). The F16 must initially give the Wayfarer room to keep clear (Rule 15). The FF must give the F16 room to keep clear when they change course (luff)(Rule 16.1).

The FF broke Rule 16.1
You broke Rule 14 (contact), but would be exonerated pursuant to Rule 14(b).
The Wayfarer broke Rule 11, but could make an argument that they were not given room to keep clear (Rule 16.1) as they were head to wind and wayless.

BTW, a boat racing is is not an obstruction to other boats unless they are required to keep clear of her or, if rule 22 applies, avoid her.