Team Race - CALL G 06      

Rule 11 On the Same Tack, Overlapped
Rule 17 On the Same Tack; Proper Course, Leeward Boat
Rule 19 Room to Pass an Obstruction

Question 1
A and X are overlapped on port tack on a downwind leg. X is subject to rule 17. Both boats are on collision course with B on starboard tack. A hails for room to gybe but X luffs to pass astern of B, which is a proper course for X. A keeps clear and protests. What should the call be?

Answer 1
Rule 19 applies between boats at an obstruction. The right-of-way boat may choose to pass an obstruction on either side. A must keep clear of X, and X must not sail above her proper course. A keeps clear of X and gives her room while she does so. No penalty.

Question 2
How close to the obstruction can X be before she makes her choice?

Answer 2
If X chooses to luff, she must be far enough from B to both keep clear of B and give A room to keep clear under rule 16.1. If X chooses to gybe, she must be far enough from B to give A room under rule 19.2(b) to pass on the same side of B.