Rule 17 - On the Same Tack, Proper Course: Racing Rules of Sailing 2021-2024

[@SailingTeamTallyHo]

My experience with this rule is that it doesn't really hold up well in the protest room unless the boats are of the same class (exactly the same). This is particularly true with mismatched symmetric/asymmetric class boats where fair and proper course has an even wider definition. I've seen it enforced well in team and match racing however when there are umpires around though. :). Very good scenarios to go through!

[@SailZing]

Thanks for all your comments on these rules videos! When we get time, we'll take a look at the videos you mention and consider adding links to them as additional examples.

[@catskifflasersailing409]

Well that's completely fried my brain....... it seems that a leeward boat gaining an overlap from clear astern and within 2 boat lengths can luff up at any time and claim the were heading for a puff and therefore on their "proper course"...... and who can prove they weren't??? This rule is far too vague.

[@SailZing]

I agree that this rule leaves room for a lot of judgment. In my experience, this rule is not often the subjct of protests. Is that your experience?

[@catskifflasersailing409]

@@SailZing As you mentioned in the video I don't think many club sailors understand what "proper course" really means and I'm one of them. I think you've explained it fine, it's just that the rule is difficult to understand and implement. I get the bit about gaining an overlap from behind, but the definition of what constitutes "proper course" after that is so open to interpretation as to be almost useless.

[@catskifflasersailing409]

Out of curiosity, if there was a protest who would need to have to prove that a foul had occurred? In real life neither party could actually prove that the other was at fault.

[@rowingocean]

I am studying rules and appreciste your videos. They help me visualising. At 7:35, due to the fact that yellow jibed again and they being once again on the same tack, shouldn't rule 17 be applied? I see it says the rule applies while they are on a same tack and 2 hull length to leeward. As long as they are overlapped, rule 17 should be applied. Can you please explain this? Thank you again!

[@kaiponting6813]

This rule only applies if a boat comes from clear astern. If a boat gybes into the leeward position, only rule 13 applies (windward/leeward) since that boat did not come from clear astern

[@katherinemontgomery6744]

Thank