Just skimmed this thread, my god it is scary how many of you don't know the rules. From not knowing you have to do your spin(s) as soon as possible (without avoiding other racers) to not knowing leeward vs windward, etc etc....

If you don't know if you are clear to gybe, don't! If you approach a windward mark, make sure you are aware of what is comming upwind (not hard to look around before you start your down turn). If you have a blind spot, make sure you figure out how to remove it!

End rant, this thread scares me, I'm with whomever said their should be a quiz before every regatta, almost 'proof you are good enough to sail'.

Scary stuff guys, you drive a car without knowing the rules of the road?