I reread this thread once again and it was very clear to me that we would all do well going back to basics.

Here is some advice offered to the Junior Sailors of Long Island Sound. (by the junior sailors)

JSA Ethics Guidelines

Respected Sailors Always:
1. Know and abide by the Racing Rules. They promptly:
a. Take a penalty or retire when they know they broke a rule, or
b. File a protest when appropriate.
2. Obey event regulations, on and off the water, including housing rules.
3. Are organized, prepared, and responsible for their own equipment.
4. Show respect to fellow sailors and those helping to run the regattas and programs.

Respected Sailors Never:
1. Swear at, intimidate or harass anyone including teammates on or off the water.
2. Steal or borrow, without permission anything that does not belong to them.
3. Break laws related to alcohol, tobacco or illegal drugs.

You haven’t won the race if, in winning the race, you have lost the respect of your competitors, (Paul Elvstrom (Four-Time Olympic gold medalist.

These guideline were developed by junior sailors for The Junior Sailing Association of Long Island Sound. www.jsalis.org (A member of the United States Sailing Association, Inc)

Rule number one in each section seem particularly appropriate!

If we don't conduct ourselves appropriately and operate a fair game with clear rules... we will be doomed as a sport. The kids understand this and wrote a great set of guidelines... If we don't follow their lead...few will want to participate in our version of "chaos on the water" as Mary reported of her current and past experiences.

Bob H's comment that you have to look a few steps ahead... and Pat's comments about coaching the folks getting back into racing or the juniors are great ideas.

Reviewing the CURRENT RULES.... are a must for us "adults".... Hell the Opti kids... would probably crush us in a rules quiz!