Question
After the umpires signal their decision in response to a boat's Y flag, persons
on one of the boats make it clear that they are unhappy with the decision. Should
the umpires impose a penalty under rule C8.3(c) for a ‘breach of sportsmanship’?
Answer
This depends on the words, the manner in which they are spoken, and any other
related actions of the crew of the boat. If they merely express unhappiness
or disappointment, or that in their opinion the decision was wrong, then a penalty
is not appropriate. However, if the total effect is to convey that the umpires
are incompetent, or are prejudiced against the penalized boat, a penalty may
be justified, whether the meaning is directed only at the umpires or also to
others nearby. If the meaning is clearly insulting to the umpires, a penalty
should be imposed.