Eric, with your interpretation of the rule, I don't see how you can race cats in anything over 6 knots of wind. Had I been sailing A I'd do the same thing every time.

As you say, GE had 1 second, imo, that is damning evidence. You shouldn't come flying in on port unless you are absolutely certain of yourself. (incidentally, I think GE had about 7 seconds to make a decision, made the correct decision, but his boat couldn't respond, compounding the error in judgement.)