>Then again, the rules are supposedly written to prevent this sort of thing from happening.<

(Multi classes is another story as you have already expressed.)
(Multi classes is another story as you have already expressed.)

On another tack.
I think it is interesting how Iceboat rules handle the downhill ROW. (please read rules below)
With the incursion of spinnaker cats, perhaps they should follow the iceboats lead in OD Class racing downwind???

RULE 4.
When two yachts sailing
OFF-THE-WIND are on the same tack, the LEEWARD YACHT shall keep clear.

When two yachts sailing
ON-THE-WIND are on the same tack, the WINDWARD YACHT shall keep clear.

http://www.nsibyc.com/raceruledef.asp#Right%20of%20Way