Version 2010-01 – May 2010
Based on and modified from the ISAF Introductory Rules for Sailing Version 1.01 – February 2008
These rules should be used for all Green Fleet races
Some Explanations
Windward and Leeward: The leeward side of your boat is the side where your mainsail lies. The windward side is the other side.
Port and Starboard tack: You are on port or starboard tack according to your windward side.
Advisor: A person appointed by the race organizers to assist competitors in understanding the rules and, when appropriate, to penalize a boat.
Basic Rules
1. You must comply with the principles of good sportsmanship.
2. You must try not to collide with another boat.
Rules When Boats Meet
3. When you and the other boat are on opposite tacks, if you are on port tack you must avoid the boat on starboard tack.
4. When you and the other boat are on the same tack, you must avoid the other boat
(a) if she is in front of you, or
(b) if she is on your leeward side.
5. After starting, when you and the other boat approach a mark or an object that both boats need to avoid, and the other boat is between you and the mark or other object, you must give her sufficient space to pass it safely on the same side. However, when the boats are on opposite tacks at a windward mark, this rule does not apply.
6. When the other boat is required to avoid you, if you change course, you must give the other boat enough time to avoid you.
Other Rules
7. At the starting signal you must be behind the starting line.
8. After the starting signal, you must sail the course described by the race organizers.
9. You shall not propel your boat by paddling, sculling with your rudder, rocking your boat, pumping your sail or by being towed.
10. If you know you have broken a rule you may take a one-turn penalty by turning in a circle and doing one tack and one gybe. Avoid other boats when you do this.
11. If you think you or another boat has broken a rule or if you are unclear about the rules at any time during the race, you should describe the incident to the race advisor after the race so they can follow up with the sailors involved.
The aim of Green Fleet sailing in NZ
- Green fleet is open to any Optimist sailor aged 15 or under; there are no further restrictions for age or experience
- Success in this fleet is awarded per race or per day, NOT for an overall series
- Sailors will experience a range of sailing in Green Fleet regattas and events that include destination sails, novelty races, long course races as well as more traditional race courses.
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