Hypothetically speaking, if the two boats are outside the zone, then:
- Rule 18 does not apply.
- Because BL did not establish overlap to leeward within two of her hull lengths from clear astern (she was clear ahead), Rule 17 does not apply either. BL may sail above her proper course (i.e. she may take AW up).
When the first boat reaches the zone:
- BL is clear ahead. Per Rule 18.2(b), AW must give BL mark-room. AW is NOT entitled to mark-room.
- Mark-room includes (in part) "Room to sail to the mark when her proper course is to sail close to it...". If it is BL's proper course to pass next to the committee boat, and BL tries to do so but AW sails in between the two, then AW breaks Rule 18.2(b).
- If it is NOT BL's proper course to sail to the committee boat, she still MAY do so (remember, BL is not limited by Rule 17) provided:
- When BL changes course, she must give AW room to keep clear per Rule 16.1.
- If BL lets AW get in between her and the committee boat, BL cannot turn AW into it. This is analogous to "closing the door" on a boat that is barging at the start.
- Provided BL "closes the door" in time, or if her proper course is to sail next to the committee boat, and she has to bear away to avoid AW, then AW also breaks Rule 11.
BL is in a controlling position here, and has multiple options to defend her lead. If she does none of them, and lets AW in, then "room freely given may be freely taken".
I hope that helps,
Eric