It is interesting that the rules establish that the time is taken when the first part of the boat/crew in its normal sailing position crosses the line, but the boat has not finished the race until the entire boat crosses the line.

Once, when approaching the finish line on the port tack (heading to the buoy) in a windsurfer, it was impossible to cross the line and clear about 15 competitors approaching on the other tack. But it was possible to let the bow cross and reverse fast without touching anyone. After they all passed, I crossed the line slowly, safely and with a big smile. This meant 9th instead of 24th, for timing was taken when the bow crossed. They CRIED!