Question
A and X are reaching, both above their proper courses, with X just clear
ahead and one length to windward of A. X bears away so that the boats
become overlapped. A promptly bears away to a proper course. X protests.
What should the call be?
Answer
Rule 17 begins to apply when the boats become overlapped. From that moment
on, A must sail no higher than her proper course from the position she
is in when the overlap begins (position 2) - i.e., she must sail no higher
than a course that she would sail in the absence of X from position 2
to reach the next mark as quickly as possible. By bearing away promptly,
A complies with this rule. No penalty.
The answer is the same if the overlap is established through A sailing
faster rather than X bearing away.
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