I think that there exists this culture that folks will only protest if they have something to gain, which is wrong. If someone infringes a rule and comes last in the race, he should still face a protest hearing so that he can learn from his mistakes, or he may never know he is making them. My friend above sincerely didn`t know or refused to believe that other boats on the course not in his class also had right of way.
Well said. The preamble to the rules states "
Competitors in the sport of sailing are governed by a body of rules that they are expected to follow and enforce". I think many people miss those last two words.
I've heard lots of complaints about sailors not following the rules - from sailors unwilling to enforce them. It should be quite simple: if you foul someone, take a penalty. If someone fouls you, protest.
There seems to be great reluctance to protest, and I suspect it's partly because people view it as an accusation of cheating. Nobody wants to ruin their friendships that way. Also, most people don't want a reputation as a "sea-lawyer". And, the on-shore protest procedure is a PITA.
Now, much of the time, it makes sense to let an infraction slide, but not if you're going to complain about it later.
And yes, the rules apply between all boats on the course, regardless of what fleet they're in. I assert my right-of-way when I have it, and I give way when I don't. It doesn't matter if the other boat is a H-16, F-18, N-20, Tornado, Playstation, or even an Optimist.
Regards,
Eric
