Team Race - CALL C 05     

Rule 42.3(d) Propulsion; Exceptions

Question
At the start, boat A has been near head to wind on starboard tack for some time, and has lost steerage way. She returns to a close-hauled course by repeatedly yanking the tiller to windward. Another boat protests. What should the call be?

Answer
A breaks no rule. She is above close-hauled and is moving slowly, and her 'sculling' movements are to turn the boat to a close-hauled course. This is specifically permitted by rule 42.3(d).


Repeated movements of the helm that is either forceful or that propels the boat forward or prevents her from moving astern break rule 42.2(d). However, sculling to turn a nearly stationary boat from above close-hauled onto a closehauled course is permitted.