Team Race - CALL E 09      

Rule 16.1 Changing Course
Rule D1.1(a) On the Same Tack; Proper Course, Windward Boat
Rule D1.1(b) Rounding and Passing Marks and Obstructions: Giving Room; Keeping Clear. Not Overlapped at the Zone

Question
At a starboard-hand windward mark, X and A are both close-hauled on starboard tack when X reaches the two-length zone clear ahead of A. X slows and A becomes overlapped to leeward of her. X bears off, forcing A to sail lower and allowing Y to pass between X and the mark. When X reaches the port tack layline, she tacks and rounds the mark. A protests. What should the call be?

Answer
No rule is broken, provided that when X changes course away from the mark she gives A room to keep clear as required by rule 16.1. Because X is clear ahead of A when she enters the two-length zone, X has right of way under rule 18.2(c) and A must keep clear of her while rule 18 continues to apply. Since the boats are on a beat to windward (see Call D9), X is entitled to sail below her proper course and A must keep clear.