David Haw

Date of report	20 Dec 2024
Reference	2024-0698
Deceased	David Haw
Coroner	Rachael Griffin
Coroner area	Dorset
Category	Other related deaths
Source	judiciary.uk record · original PDF
Responses published	2

The report

Text extracted from the PDF text layer. Reproduced verbatim, including the scan's own layout.

P
h
o
o
:

C
a
r
l
o

B
o
r
l
e
n
g
h

2021 - 2024

Racing
Rules of
Sailing

RACE SIGNALS
The meanings of visual and sound signals are stated below. An arrow pointing up or down
(
) means a sound; five short
¯
dashes (– – – – –) mean repetitive sounds; a long dash (—) means a long sound. When a visual
signal is displayed over a class flag, fleet flag, event flag or race area flag, the signal applies only
to that class, fleet, event or race area.

) means that a visual signal is displayed or removed. A dot (

•

Postponement Signals

AP Races not started are
postponed. The warning
signal will be made 1
minute after removal
unless at that time the race
is postponed again or
abandoned.

AP over H Races not
started are postponed.
Further signals ashore.

AP over A Races not
started are postponed.
No more racing today.

AP over a Numeral Pennant 1–9

Postponement of
1-9 hours from
the scheduled
starting time.

Pennant 1

Pennant 2

Pennant 3

Pennant 4

Pennant 6

Pennant 5
a laskemisesta, ellei
purjehdusta silloin lykätä
Abandonment Signals
uudelleen tai mitätöidä.

Pennant 7

Pennant 8

Pennant 9

Safety

N All races that have
started are abandoned.
Return to the starting area.
The warning signal will
be made 1 minute after
removal unless at that time
the race is abandoned
again or postponed.

N over H
All races are
abandoned.
Further signals
ashore.

N over A All races
are abandoned. No
more racing today.

V Monitor
communication
channel for safety
instructions
(see rule 37).

Preparatory Signals

P Preparatory
signal.

I Rule 30.1
is in effect.

Z Rule 30.2
is in effect.

U Rule 30.3
is in effect.

Black flag.
Rule 30.4 is
in effect.

Recall Signals

Shortened Course

X Individual recall.

First Substitute General recall.
The warning signal will be made
1 minute after removal.

S The course has
been shortened. Rule
32.2 is in effect.

Changing the Next Leg

C The position
of the next mark
has been changed:

Other Signals

to starboard;

to port;

to decrease
the length
of the leg;

to increase
the length
of the leg.

L Ashore: A notice
to competitors has
been posted.
Afloat: Come within
hail or follow this
vessel.

M The object
displaying this
signal replaces
a missing mark.
merkin.

Y Wear
a personal
flotation
device
(see rule 40).

(no sound)

Orange flag.
The staff
displaying
this flag is
one end of the
starting line.

Blue flag.
The staff
displaying
this flag is
one end of the
finishing line.

THE
RACING RULES
OF
SAILING

for 2021–2024

World Sailing

As the leading authority for the sport, World Sailing promotes and supports
sailing competitions
the environment
the protection of
and related activities throughout the world.

in all

Contact Details for the World Sailing Executive Office:

World Sailing

20 Eastbourne Terrace

Paddington

London W2 6LG

United Kingdom

Telephone + 44 (0)20 3940 4888

General Email office@sailing.org

Racing Rules Email rules@sailing.org

Website sailing.org

Published by World Sailing (UK) Limited, London, UK
© World Sailing Limited
June 2020

CONTENTS

Fundamental Rules
When Boats Meet
Conduct of a Race
Other Requirements When Racing
Protests, Redress, Hearings, Misconduct and Appeals
Entry and Qualification
Race Organization

Race Signals
Online Rules Documents
Introduction
Definitions
Basic Principles
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5
Part 6
Part 7
Appendix A Scoring
Appendix B Windsurfing Fleet Racing Rules
Appendix C Match Racing Rules
Appendix D Team Racing Rules
Appendix E Radio Sailing Racing Rules
Appendix F Kiteboarding Racing Rules
Appendix G Identification on Sails
Appendix H Weighing Clothing and Equipment
Appendix J Notice of Race and Sailing Instructions
Notice concerning Notice of Race Guide
Notice concerning Sailing Instructions Guide
Appendix M Recommendations for Protest Committees
Appendix N International Juries
Appendix P Special Procedures for Rule 42
Appendix R Procedures for Appeals and Requests
Appendix S Standard Sailing Instructions
Appendix T Arbitration

Inside front cover
4
5
7
11
11
14
21
26
34
50
52
57
61
72
86
94
104
115
120
121
126
126
127
134
137
140
143
150

ONLINE RULES DOCUMENTS

World Sailing has established a single internet address at which readers will
find links to all the documents available on the World Sailing website that are
mentioned in this book. Those documents are listed below. Links to other rules
documents will also be provided at that address.

The address is: sailing.org/racingrules/documents

Mentioned in
Introduction
Introduction
Introduction
Introduction
Introduction

Document
Guidelines for discretionary penalties
Changes made to these rules after 1 January 2021
World Sailing Regulations
The Case Book
The Call Books for various disciplines
World Sailing Regulations with the status of a rule Definition Rule (b)
Rule 42
Interpretations of Rule 42, Propulsion
Rule 49.2
World Sailing Offshore Special Regulations
Appendix TS, Traffic Separation Schemes
Rule 56.2
Part 5 Preamble
Hearing Request and Hearing Decision Forms
Appendix B Preamble
Rules for other windsurfing competition formats
Appendix C Preamble
Standard Notice of Race for Match Racing
Appendix C Preamble
Standard Sailing Instructions for Match Racing
Appendix C Preamble
Match Racing Rules for Blind Competitors
Test Rules for Umpired Radio Sailing
Appendix E Preamble
Rules for other kiteboarding competition formats Appendix F Preamble
Up-to-date table of national sail letters
Notice of Race Guide
Sailing Instructions Guide
Guidance on conflicts of interest
Guidance on misconduct
World Sailing Judges Manual

Appendix G
Appendix K Notice
Appendix L Notice
Appendix M2.3
Appendix M5.8
Appendix T Preamble

INTRODUCTION

The Racing Rules of Sailing includes two main sections. The first,
Parts 1–7, contains rules that affect all competitors. The second, the
appendices, provides details of rules, rules that apply to particular
kinds of racing, and rules that affect only a small number of
competitors or officials.

Terminology A term used in the sense stated in the Definitions is
printed in italics or, in preambles, in bold italics (for example, racing
and racing).

Each of the terms in the table below is used in The Racing Rules of
Sailing with the meaning given.

Term
Boat
Competitor

National
authority
Race
committee

Racing rule
Technical
committee

Vessel

Meaning
A sailboat and the crew on board.
A person who races or intends to race in the
event.
A World Sailing member national authority.

The race committee appointed under rule 89.2(c)
and any other person or committee performing a
race committee function.
A rule in The Racing Rules of Sailing.
The technical committee appointed under rule
89.2(c) and any other person or committee
performing a technical committee function.
Any boat or ship.

Other words and terms are used in the sense ordinarily understood in
nautical or general use.

Hails A language other than English may be used for a hail required
by the rules provided that it is reasonable for it to be understood by all
boats affected. However, a hail in English is always acceptable.

Notation The notation ‘[DP]’ in a rule means that the penalty for a
breach of the rule may, at the discretion of the protest committee, be
less than disqualification. Guidelines for discretionary penalties are
available on the World Sailing website.

INTRODUCTION

Revision The racing rules are revised and published every four years
by World Sailing, the international authority for the sport. This edition
becomes effective on 1 January 2021 except that for an event
beginning in 2020 the date may be postponed by the notice of race or
sailing instructions. Marginal markings indicate important changes to
Parts 1–7 and the Definitions in the 2017–2020 edition. No changes
are contemplated before 2025, but any changes determined to be
urgent before then will be announced through national authorities and
posted on the World Sailing website.

Appendices When the rules of an appendix apply, they take
precedence over any conflicting rules in Parts 1–7 and the Definitions.
Each appendix is identified by a letter. A reference to a rule in an
appendix will contain the letter and the rule number (for example, ‘rule
A1’). The letters I, O and Q are not used to designate appendices in
this book.

World Sailing Regulations The Regulations are referred to in the
definition Rule and in rule 6, but they are not included in this book
because they can be changed at any time. The most recent versions of
the Regulations are published on the World Sailing website; new
versions will be announced through national authorities.

Interpretations World Sailing publishes the following authoritative
interpretations of the racing rules:

• The Case Book – Interpretations of the Racing Rules,

• The Call Books, for various disciplines,

• Interpretations of Rule 42, Propulsion, and

• Interpretations of the Regulations, for those Regulations that

are rules.

These publications are available on the World Sailing website. Other
interpretations of the racing rules are not authoritative unless approved
by World Sailing in accordance with Regulation 28.4.

DEFINITIONS

A term used as stated below is shown in italic type or, in preambles, in bold
italic type. The meaning of several other terms is given in Terminology in the
Introduction.

Abandon A race that a race committee or protest committee abandons is void
but may be resailed.

Clear Astern and Clear Ahead; Overlap One boat is clear astern of another
when her hull and equipment in normal position are behind a line abeam from
the aftermost point of the other boat’s hull and equipment in normal position.
The other boat is clear ahead. They overlap when neither is clear astern.
However, they also overlap when a boat between them overlaps both. These
terms always apply to boats on the same tack. They apply to boats on opposite
tacks only when rule 18 applies between them or when both boats are sailing
more than ninety degrees from the true wind.

Conflict of Interest A person has a conflict of interest if he

(a) may gain or lose as a result of a decision to which he contributes,

(b) may reasonably appear to have a personal or financial interest which

could affect his ability to be impartial, or

Fetching A boat is fetching a mark when she is in a position to pass to
windward of it and leave it on the required side without changing tack.

Finish A boat finishes when, after starting, any part of her hull crosses the
finishing line from the course side. However, she has not finished if after
crossing the finishing line she

(a)

(b)

(c)

takes a penalty under rule 44.2,

corrects an error in sailing the course made at the line, or

continues to sail the course.

Keep Clear A boat keeps clear of a right-of-way boat

(a)

if the right-of-way boat can sail her course with no need to take avoiding
action and,

(b) when the boats are overlapped, if the right-of-way boat can also change

course in both directions without immediately making contact.

DEFINITIONS

Leeward and Windward A boat’s leeward side is the side that is or, when she
is head to wind, was away from the wind. However, when sailing by the lee or
directly downwind, her leeward side is the side on which her mainsail lies. The
other side is her windward side. When two boats on the same tack overlap, the
one on the leeward side of the other is the leeward boat. The other is the
windward boat.

Mark An object the sailing instructions require a boat to leave on a specified
side, a race committee vessel surrounded by navigable water from which the
starting or finishing line extends, and an object intentionally attached to the
object or vessel. However, an anchor line is not part of the mark.

Mark-Room Room for a boat to leave a mark on the required side. Also,

(a)

(b)

room to sail to the mark when her proper course is to sail close to it, and

room to round or pass the mark as necessary to sail the course without
touching the mark.

However, mark-room for a boat does not include room to tack unless she is
overlapped inside and to windward of the boat required to give mark-room and
she would be fetching the mark after her tack.

Obstruction An object that a boat could not pass without changing course
substantially, if she were sailing directly towards it and one of her hull lengths
from it. An object that can be safely passed on only one side and an object,
area or line so designated by the sailing instructions are also obstructions.
However, a boat racing is not an obstruction to other boats unless they are
required to keep clear of her or, if rule 22 applies, avoid her. A vessel under
way, including a boat racing, is never a continuing obstruction.

Overlap See Clear Astern and Clear Ahead; Overlap.

Party A party to a hearing is

for a protest hearing: a protestor, a protestee;

for a redress hearing: a boat requesting redress or for which redress is
requested; a boat for which a hearing is called to consider redress under
rule 60.3(b); a race committee acting under rule 60.2(b); a technical
committee acting under rule 60.4(b);

for a redress hearing under rule 62.1(a): the body alleged to have made
an improper action or omission;

a person against whom an allegation of a breach of rule 69.1(a) is made;
a person presenting an allegation under rule 69.2(e)(1);

(a)

(b)

(c)

(d)

DEFINITIONS

(e)

a support person subject to a hearing under rule 60.3(d) or 69; any boat
that person supports; a person appointed to present an allegation under
rule 60.3(d).

However, the protest committee is never a party.

Postpone A postponed race is delayed before its scheduled start but may be
started or abandoned later.

Proper Course A course a boat would choose in order to sail the course and
finish as soon as possible in the absence of the other boats referred to in the
rule using the term. A boat has no proper course before her starting signal.

Protest An allegation made under rule 61.2 by a boat, a race committee, a
technical committee or a protest committee that a boat has broken a rule.

Racing A boat is racing from her preparatory signal until she finishes and
clears the finishing line and marks or retires, or until the race committee signals
a general recall, postponement or abandonment.

Room The space a boat needs in the existing conditions, including space to
comply with her obligations under the rules of Part 2 and rule 31, while
manoeuvring promptly in a seamanlike way.

Rule

(a) The rules in this book, including the Definitions, Race Signals,
Introduction, preambles and the rules of relevant appendices, but not
titles;

(b) World Sailing Regulations that have been designated by World Sailing
as having the status of a rule and are published on the World Sailing
website;

(c)

(d)

(e)

(f)

(g)

the prescriptions of the national authority, unless they are changed by the
notice of race or sailing instructions in compliance with the national
authority’s prescription, if any, to rule 88.2;

the class rules (for a boat racing under a handicap or rating system, the
rules of that system are ‘class rules’);

the notice of race;

the sailing instructions; and

any other documents that govern the event.

DEFINITIONS

Sail the Course A boat sails the course provided that a string representing
her track from the time she begins to approach the starting line from its pre-
start side to start until she finishes, when drawn taut,

(a) passes each mark of the course for the race on the required side and in

the correct order,

(b)

touches each mark designated in the sailing instructions to be a rounding
mark, and

the previous mark.

Start A boat starts when, her hull having been entirely on the pre-start side
of the starting line at or after her starting signal, and having complied with rule
30.1 if it applies, any part of her hull crosses the starting line from the pre-start
side to the course side.

Support Person Any person who

(a) provides, or may provide, physical or advisory support to a competitor,
including any coach, trainer, manager, team staff, medic, paramedic or
any other person working with, treating or assisting a competitor in or
preparing for the competition, or

(b)

is the parent or guardian of a competitor.

Tack, Starboard or Port A boat is on the tack, starboard or port,
corresponding to her windward side.

Windward See Leeward and Windward.

Zone The area around a mark within a distance of three hull lengths of the
boat nearer to it. A boat is in the zone when any part of her hull is in the zone.

BASIC PRINCIPLES

SPORTSMANSHIP AND THE RULES

Competitors in the sport of sailing are governed by a body of rules that
they are expected to follow and enforce. A fundamental principle of
sportsmanship is that when a boat breaks a rule and is not exonerated
she will promptly take an appropriate penalty or action, which may be
to retire.

ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY

Participants are encouraged to minimize any adverse environmental
impact of the sport of sailing.

PART 1
FUNDAMENTAL RULES

1.1

SAFETY

Helping Those in Danger

A boat, competitor or support person shall give all possible help to any
person or vessel in danger.

1.2

Life-Saving Equipment and Personal Flotation Devices

A boat shall carry adequate life-saving equipment for all persons on
board, including one item ready for immediate use, unless her class
rules make some other provision. Each competitor is individually
responsible for wearing a personal flotation device adequate for the
conditions.

FAIR SAILING

A boat and her owner shall compete in compliance with recognized
principles of sportsmanship and fair play. A boat may be penalized
under this rule only if it is clearly established that these principles have
been violated. The penalty shall be a disqualification that is not
excludable.

Part 1

FUNDAMENTAL RULES

DECISION TO RACE

The responsibility for a boat’s decision to participate in a race or to
continue racing is hers alone.

4.1

ACCEPTANCE OF THE RULES

(a) By participating or intending to participate in an event conducted
under the rules, each competitor and boat owner agrees to accept
the rules.

(b) A support person by providing support, or a parent or guardian
by permitting their child to enter an event, agrees to accept the
rules.

4.2

Each competitor and boat owner agrees, on behalf of their support
persons, that such support persons are bound by the rules.

4.3

Acceptance of the rules includes agreement

(a)

(b)

to be governed by the rules;

to accept the penalties imposed and other action taken under the
rules, subject to the appeal and review procedures provided in
them, as the final determination of any matter arising under the
rules;

of law or tribunal not provided for in the rules; and

(d) by each competitor and boat owner to ensure that their support

persons are aware of the rules.

The person in charge of each boat shall ensure that all competitors in
the crew and the boat’s owner are aware of their responsibilities under
this rule.

This rule may be changed by a prescription of the national authority
of the venue.

RULES GOVERNING ORGANIZING AUTHORITIES
AND OFFICIALS

The organizing authority, race committee, technical committee,
protest committee and other race officials shall be governed by the
rules in the conduct and judging of the event.

4.4

4.5

Part 1

FUNDAMENTAL RULES

6.1

WORLD SAILING REGULATIONS

Each competitor, boat owner and support person shall comply with
the World Sailing Regulations that have been designated by World
Sailing as having the status of a rule. These regulations as of 30 June
2020 are the World Sailing:

●

Advertising Code

Anti-Doping Code

Betting and Anti-Corruption Code

Disciplinary Code

Eligibility Code

Sailor Categorization Code

6.2

Rule 63.1 does not apply unless protests are permitted in the
Regulation alleged to have been broken.

PART 2
WHEN BOATS MEET

The rules of Part 2 apply between boats that are sailing in or near the
racing area and intend to race, are racing, or have been racing.
However, a boat not racing shall not be penalized for breaking one of
these rules, except rule 14 when the incident resulted in injury or
serious damage, or rule 23.1.

When a boat sailing under these rules meets a vessel that is not, she
shall comply with the International Regulations for Preventing
Collisions at Sea (IRPCAS) or government right-of-way rules. If the
notice of race so states, the rules of Part 2 are replaced by the right-
of-way rules of the IRPCAS or by government right-of-way rules.

SECTION A
RIGHT OF WAY

A boat has right of way over another boat when the other boat is
required to keep clear of her. However, some rules in Sections B, C
and D limit the actions of a right-of-way boat.

ON OPPOSITE TACKS

When boats are on opposite tacks, a port-tack boat shall keep clear of
a starboard-tack boat.

ON THE SAME TACK, OVERLAPPED

When boats are on the same tack and overlapped, a windward boat
shall keep clear of a leeward boat.

ON THE SAME TACK, NOT OVERLAPPED

When boats are on the same tack and not overlapped, a boat clear
astern shall keep clear of a boat clear ahead.

WHILE TACKING

After a boat passes head to wind, she shall keep clear of other boats
until she is on a close-hauled course. During that time rules 10, 11 and

Part 2 WHEN BOATS MEET

12 do not apply. If two boats are subject to this rule at the same time,
the one on the other’s port side or the one astern shall keep clear.

SECTION B
GENERAL LIMITATIONS

AVOIDING CONTACT

A boat shall avoid contact with another boat if reasonably possible.
However, a right-of-way boat, or one sailing within the room or mark-
room to which she is entitled, need not act to avoid contact until it is
clear that the other boat is not keeping clear or giving room or mark-
room.

ACQUIRING RIGHT OF WAY

When a boat acquires right of way, she shall initially give the other
boat room to keep clear, unless she acquires right of way because of
the other boat’s actions.

CHANGING COURSE

16.1 When a right-of-way boat changes course, she shall give the other boat

room to keep clear.

16.2

In addition, on a beat to windward when a port-tack boat is keeping
clear by sailing to pass to leeward of a starboard-tack boat, the
starboard-tack boat shall not bear away if as a result the port-tack boat
must change course immediately to continue keeping clear.

ON THE SAME TACK; PROPER COURSE

If a boat clear astern becomes overlapped within two of her hull
lengths to leeward of a boat on the same tack, she shall not sail above
her proper course while they remain on the same tack and overlapped
within that distance, unless in doing so she promptly sails astern of the
other boat. This rule does not apply if the overlap begins while the
windward boat is required by rule 13 to keep clear.

Part 2 WHEN BOATS MEET

SECTION C
AT MARKS AND OBSTRUCTIONS

Section C rules do not apply at a starting mark surrounded by
navigable water or at its anchor line from the time boats are
approaching them to start until they have passed them.

MARK-ROOM

18.1 When Rule 18 Applies

Rule 18 applies between boats when they are required to leave a mark
on the same side and at least one of them is in the zone. However, it
does not apply

(a) between boats on opposite tacks on a beat to windward,

(b) between boats on opposite tacks when the proper course at the

mark for one but not both of them is to tack,

(d)

if the mark is a continuing obstruction, in which case rule 19
applies.

Rule 18 no longer applies between boats when mark-room has been
given.

18.2 Giving Mark-Room

(a) When boats are overlapped the outside boat shall give the inside

boat mark-room, unless rule 18.2(b) applies.

(b)

If boats are overlapped when the first of them reaches the zone,
the outside boat at that moment shall thereafter give the inside
boat mark-room. If a boat is clear ahead when she reaches the
zone, the boat clear astern at that moment shall thereafter give
her mark-room.

(1)

(2)

she shall continue to do so even if later an overlap is
broken or a new overlap begins;

if she becomes overlapped inside the boat entitled to mark-
room, she shall also give that boat room to sail her proper
course while they remain overlapped.

Part 2 WHEN BOATS MEET

(d) Rules 18.2(b) and (c) cease to apply if the boat entitled to mark-

room passes head to wind or leaves the zone.

(e)

(f)

If there is reasonable doubt that a boat obtained or broke an
overlap in time, it shall be presumed that she did not.

If a boat obtained an inside overlap from clear astern or by
tacking to windward of the other boat and, from the time the
overlap began, the outside boat has been unable to give mark-
room, she is not required to give it.

18.3

Passing Head to Wind in the Zone

If a boat in the zone of a mark to be left to port passes head to wind
from port to starboard tack and is then fetching the mark, she shall not
cause a boat that has been on starboard tack since entering the zone to
sail above close-hauled to avoid contact and she shall give mark-room
if that boat becomes overlapped inside her. When this rule applies
between boats, rule 18.2 does not apply between them.

18.4 Gybing

When an inside overlapped right-of-way boat must gybe at a mark to
sail her proper course, until she gybes she shall sail no farther from
the mark than needed to sail that course. Rule 18.4 does not apply at a
gate mark.

ROOM TO PASS AN OBSTRUCTION

19.1 When Rule 19 Applies

Rule 19 applies between two boats at an obstruction except

(a) when the obstruction is a mark the boats are required to leave on

the same side, or

(b) when rule 18 applies between the boats and the obstruction is

another boat overlapped with each of them.

However, at a continuing obstruction, rule 19 always applies and rule
18 does not.

Part 2 WHEN BOATS MEET

19.2 Giving Room at an Obstruction

(a) A right-of-way boat may choose to pass an obstruction on either

side.

(b) When boats are overlapped, the outside boat shall give the inside
boat room between her and the obstruction, unless she has been
unable to do so from the time the overlap began.

(c) While boats are passing a continuing obstruction, if a boat that
was clear astern and required to keep clear becomes overlapped
between the other boat and the obstruction and, at the moment
the overlap begins, there is not room for her to pass between
them,

(1)

she is not entitled to room under rule 19.2(b), and

(2) while the boats remain overlapped, she shall keep clear

and rules 10 and 11 do not apply.

ROOM TO TACK AT AN OBSTRUCTION

20.1 Hailing

A boat may hail for room to tack and avoid a boat on the same tack.
However, she shall not hail unless

(a)

she is approaching an obstruction and will soon need to make a
substantial course change to avoid it safely, and

(b)

she is sailing close-hauled or above.

In addition, she shall not hail if the obstruction is a mark and a boat
that is fetching it would be required to change course as a result of the
hail.

20.2 Responding

(a) After a boat hails, she shall give a hailed boat time to respond.

(b) A hailed boat shall respond even if the hail breaks rule 20.1.

(c) A hailed boat shall respond either by tacking as soon as possible,
or by immediately replying ‘You tack’ and then giving the
hailing boat room to tack and avoid her.

(d) When a hailed boat responds, the hailing boat shall tack as soon

as possible.

(e) From the time a boat hails until she has tacked and avoided a

hailed boat, rule 18.2 does not apply between them.

Part 2 WHEN BOATS MEET

20.3

Passing On a Hail to an Additional Boat

When a boat has been hailed for room to tack and she intends to
respond by tacking, she may hail another boat on the same tack for
room to tack and avoid her. She may hail even if her hail does not meet
the conditions of rule 20.1. Rule 20.2 applies between her and a boat
she hails.

20.4 Additional Requirements for Hails

(a) When conditions are such that a hail may not be heard, the boat
shall also make a signal that clearly indicates her need for room
to tack or her response.

(b) The notice of race may specify an alternative communication for
a boat to indicate her need for room to tack or her response, and
require boats to use it.

SECTION D
OTHER RULES

When rule 21 or 22 applies between two boats, Section A rules do not.

STARTING ERRORS; TAKING PENALTIES;
BACKING A SAIL

21.1 A boat sailing towards the pre-start side of the starting line or one of
its extensions after her starting signal to start or to comply with rule
30.1 shall keep clear of a boat not doing so until her hull is completely
on the pre-start side.

21.2 A boat taking a penalty shall keep clear of one that is not.

21.3 A boat moving astern, or sideways to windward, through the water by

backing a sail shall keep clear of one that is not.

CAPSIZED, ANCHORED OR AGROUND; RESCUING

If possible, a boat shall avoid a boat that is capsized or has not regained
control after capsizing, is anchored or aground, or is trying to help a
person or vessel in danger. A boat is capsized when her masthead is in
the water.

Part 2 WHEN BOATS MEET

23.1

23.2

INTERFERING WITH ANOTHER BOAT

If reasonably possible, a boat not racing shall not interfere with a boat
that is racing.

If reasonably possible, a boat shall not interfere with a boat that is
taking a penalty, sailing on another leg or subject to rule 21.1.
However, after the starting signal this rule does not apply when the
boat is sailing her proper course.

PART 3
CONDUCT OF A RACE

25.1

25.2

NOTICE OF RACE, SAILING INSTRUCTIONS
AND SIGNALS

The notice of race shall be made available to each boat that enters an
event before she enters. The sailing instructions shall be made
available to each boat before a race begins.

The meanings of the visual and sound signals stated in Race Signals
shall not be changed except under rule 86.1(b). The meanings of any
other signals that may be used shall be stated in the notice of race or
sailing instructions.

25.3 When the race committee is required to display a flag as a visual

signal, it may use a flag or other object of a similar appearance.

STARTING RACES

Races shall be started by using the following signals. Times shall be
taken from the visual signals; the absence of a sound signal shall be
disregarded.

Minutes before
starting signal

Visual signal

Sound
signal

Means

Class flag

One Warning signal

P, I, Z, Z with I,
U, or black flag

Preparatory flag
removed

Class flag
removed

One

Preparatory
signal

One long One minute

One

Starting signal

*or as stated in the notice of race or sailing instructions

The warning signal for each succeeding class shall be made with or
after the starting signal of the preceding class.

OTHER RACE COMMITTEE ACTIONS BEFORE
THE STARTING SIGNAL

27.1 No later than the warning signal, the race committee shall signal or
otherwise designate the course to be sailed if the sailing instructions

Part 3 CONDUCT OF A RACE

have not stated the course, and it may replace one course signal with
another and signal that wearing personal flotation devices is required
(display flag Y with one sound).

27.2 No later than the preparatory signal, the race committee may move a

starting mark.

27.3 Before the starting signal, the race committee may for any reason
postpone (display flag AP, AP over H, or AP over A, with two sounds)
or abandon the race (display flag N over H, or N over A, with three
sounds).

SAILING THE RACE

28
28.1 A boat shall start, sail the course and then finish. While doing so, she
may leave on either side a mark that does not begin, bound or end the
leg she is sailing. After finishing she need not cross the finishing line
completely.

28.2 A boat may correct any errors in sailing the course, provided she has

not crossed the finishing line to finish.

RECALLS

29.1

Individual Recall

When at a boat’s starting signal any part of her hull is on the course
side of the starting line or she must comply with rule 30.1, the race
committee shall promptly display flag X with one sound. The flag shall
be displayed until the hull of each such boat has been completely on
the pre-start side of the starting line or one of its extensions, and until
all such boats have complied with rule 30.1 if it applies, but no later
than four minutes after the starting signal or one minute before any
later starting signal, whichever is earlier. If rule 29.2, 30.3 or 30.4
applies this rule does not.

29.2 General Recall

When at the starting signal the race committee is unable to identify
boats that are on the course side of the starting line or to which rule 30
applies, or there has been an error in the starting procedure, the race
committee may signal a general recall (display the First Substitute with
two sounds). The warning signal for a new start for the recalled class
shall be made one minute after the First Substitute is removed (one

Part 3 CONDUCT OF A RACE

sound), and the starts for any succeeding classes shall follow the new
start.

STARTING PENALTIES

30.1

I Flag Rule

If flag I has been displayed, and any part of a boat’s hull is on the
course side of the starting line or one of its extensions during the last
minute before her starting signal, she shall sail across an extension so
that her hull is completely on the pre-start side before she starts.

30.2 Z Flag Rule

If flag Z has been displayed, no part of a boat’s hull shall be in the
triangle formed by the ends of the starting line and the first mark
during the last minute before her starting signal. If a boat breaks this
rule and is identified, she shall receive, without a hearing, a 20%
Scoring Penalty calculated as stated in rule 44.3(c). She shall be
penalized even if the race is restarted or resailed, but not if it is
postponed or abandoned before the starting signal. If she is similarly
identified during a subsequent attempt to start the same race, she shall
receive an additional 20% Scoring Penalty.

30.3 U Flag Rule

If flag U has been displayed, no part of a boat’s hull shall be in the
triangle formed by the ends of the starting line and the first mark
during the last minute before her starting signal. If a boat breaks this
rule and is identified, she shall be disqualified without a hearing, but
not if the race is restarted or resailed.

30.4 Black Flag Rule

If a black flag has been displayed, no part of a boat’s hull shall be in
the triangle formed by the ends of the starting line and the first mark
during the last minute before her starting signal. If a boat breaks this
rule and is identified, she shall be disqualified without a hearing, even
if the race is restarted or resailed, but not if it is postponed or
abandoned before the starting signal. If a general recall is signalled or
the race is abandoned after the starting signal, the race committee shall
display her sail number before the next warning signal for that race,
and if the race is restarted or resailed she shall not sail in it. If she does
so, her disqualification shall not be excluded in calculating her series
score.

Part 3 CONDUCT OF A RACE

TOUCHING A MARK

While racing, a boat shall not touch a starting mark before starting, a
mark that begins, bounds or ends the leg of the course on which she is
sailing, or a finishing mark after finishing.

SHORTENING OR ABANDONING AFTER THE START

32.1 After the starting signal, the race committee may shorten the course
(display flag S with two sounds) or abandon the race (display flag N,
N over H, or N over A, with three sounds),

(a) because of foul weather,

(b) because of insufficient wind making it unlikely that any boat will

finish within the race time limit,

(d)

for any other reason directly affecting the safety or fairness of
the competition.

In addition, the race committee may shorten the course so that other
scheduled races can be sailed, or abandon the race because of an error
in the starting procedure. However, after one boat has started, sailed
the course and finished within the race time limit, if any, the race
committee shall not abandon the race without considering the
consequences for all boats in the race or series.

32.2

If the race committee signals a shortened course (displays flag S with
two sounds), the finishing line shall be,

(a)

(b)

(c)

at a rounding mark, between the mark and a staff displaying flag
S;

a line the course requires boats to cross; or

at a gate, between the gate marks.

The shortened course shall be signalled before the first boat crosses
the finishing line.

CHANGING THE NEXT LEG OF THE COURSE

While boats are racing, the race committee may change a leg of the
course that begins at a rounding mark or at a gate by changing the
position of the next mark (or the finishing line) and signalling all boats
before they begin the leg. The next mark need not be in position at that
time.

Part 3 CONDUCT OF A RACE

(a)

If the direction of the leg will be changed, the signal shall be the
display of flag C with repetitive sounds and one or both of
(1)
(2)

the new compass bearing,
a green triangle for a change to starboard or a red rectangle
for a change to port.

(b)

If the length of the leg will be changed, the signal shall be the
display of flag C with repetitive sounds and a ‘–’ if the length
will be decreased or a ‘+’ if it will be increased.

maintain the course shape.

MARK MISSING
If a mark is missing or out of position while boats are racing, the race
committee shall, if possible,
(a)

replace it in its correct position or substitute a new one of similar
appearance, or
substitute an object displaying flag M and make repetitive sound
signals.

(b)

RACE TIME LIMIT AND SCORES
If one boat starts, sails the course and finishes within the time limit
for that race, if any, all boats that finish shall be scored according to
their finishing places unless the race is abandoned. If no boat finishes
within the race time limit, the race committee shall abandon the race.

RACES RESTARTED OR RESAILED
If a race is restarted or resailed, a breach of a rule in the original race,
or in any previous restart or resail of that race, shall not
(a) prohibit a boat from competing unless she has broken rule 30.4;

(b)

or
cause a boat to be penalized except under rule 2, 30.2, 30.4 or
69 or under rule 14 when she has caused injury or serious
damage.

SEARCH AND RESCUE INSTRUCTIONS
When the race committee displays flag V with one sound, all boats and
official and support vessels shall, if possible, monitor the race
committee communication channel for search and rescue instructions.

Part 4 OTHER REQUIREMENTS WHEN RACING

PART 4
OTHER REQUIREMENTS
WHEN RACING

Part 4 rules apply only to boats racing unless the rule states otherwise.

SECTION A
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES

40.1 Basic Rule

When rule 40.1 is made applicable by rule 40.2, each competitor shall
wear a personal flotation device except briefly while changing or
adjusting clothing or personal equipment. Wet suits and dry suits are
not personal flotation devices.

40.2 When Rule 40.1 Applies

Rule 40.1 applies

(a)

(b)

if flag Y was displayed afloat with one sound before or with the
warning signal, while racing in that race; or

if flag Y was displayed ashore with one sound, at all times while
afloat that day.

However, rule 40.1 applies when so stated in the notice of race or
sailing instructions.

OUTSIDE HELP

A boat shall not receive help from any outside source, except

(a) help for a crew member who is ill, injured or in danger;

(b)

after a collision, help from the crew of the other vessel to get
clear;

(d) unsolicited information from a disinterested source, which may

be another boat in the same race.

Part 4 OTHER REQUIREMENTS WHEN RACING

PROPULSION

42.1 Basic Rule

Except when permitted in rule 42.3 or 45, a boat shall compete by
using only the wind and water to increase, maintain or decrease her
speed. Her crew may adjust the trim of sails and hull, and perform
other acts of seamanship, but shall not otherwise move their bodies to
propel the boat.

42.2

Prohibited Actions

Without limiting the application of rule 42.1, these actions are
prohibited:

(a) pumping: repeated fanning of any sail either by pulling in and
releasing the sail or by vertical or athwartship body movement;

(b)

rocking: repeated rolling of the boat, induced by

(1) body movement,

(2)

(3)

repeated adjustment of the sails or centreboard, or

steering;

(d)

sculling: repeated movement of the helm that is either forceful
or that propels the boat forward or prevents her from moving
astern;

(e)

repeated tacks or gybes unrelated to changes in the wind or to
tactical considerations.

42.3 Exceptions

(a) A boat may be rolled to facilitate steering.

(b) A boat’s crew may move their bodies to exaggerate the rolling
that facilitates steering the boat through a tack or a gybe,
provided that, just after the tack or gybe is completed, the boat’s
speed is not greater than it would have been in the absence of the
tack or gybe.

planing or foiling is possible

(1)

to initiate surfing or planing, each sail may be pulled in
only once for each wave or gust of wind, or

Part 4 OTHER REQUIREMENTS WHEN RACING

(2)

to initiate foiling, each sail may be pulled in any number
of times.

(d) When a boat is above a close-hauled course and either stationary
or moving slowly, she may scull to turn to a close-hauled course.

(e)

If a batten is inverted, the boat’s crew may pump the sail until
the batten is no longer inverted. This action is not permitted if it
clearly propels the boat.

(f) A boat may reduce speed by repeatedly moving her helm.

(g) Any means of propulsion may be used to help a person or

another vessel in danger.

(h) To get clear after grounding or colliding with a vessel or object,
a boat may use force applied by her crew or the crew of the other
vessel and any equipment other than a propulsion engine.
However, the use of an engine may be permitted by rule 42.3(i).

(i)

Sailing instructions may, in stated circumstances, permit
propulsion using an engine or any other method, provided the
boat does not gain a significant advantage in the race.

Note: Interpretations of rule 42 are available at the World Sailing
website or by mail upon request.

EXONERATION

43.1

(a) When as a consequence of breaking a rule a boat has compelled
another boat to break a rule, the other boat is exonerated for her
breach.

(b) When a boat is sailing within the room or mark-room to which
she is entitled and, as a consequence of an incident with a boat
required to give her that room or mark-room she breaks a rule of
Section A of Part 2, rule 15, 16, or 31, she is exonerated for her
breach.

(c) A right-of-way boat, or one sailing within the room or mark-
room to which she is entitled, is exonerated for breaking rule 14
if the contact does not cause damage or injury.

43.2 A boat exonerated for breaking a rule need not take a penalty and shall

not be penalized for breaking that rule.

Part 4 OTHER REQUIREMENTS WHEN RACING

PENALTIES AT THE TIME OF AN INCIDENT

44.1 Taking a Penalty

A boat may take a Two-Turns Penalty when she may have broken one
or more rules of Part 2 in an incident while racing. She may take a
One-Turn Penalty when she may have broken rule 31. Alternatively,
the notice of race or sailing instructions may specify the use of the
Scoring Penalty or some other penalty, in which case the specified
penalty shall replace the One-Turn and the Two-Turns Penalty.
However,

(a) when a boat may have broken a rule of Part 2 and rule 31 in the
same incident she need not take the penalty for breaking rule 31;

(b)

if the boat caused injury or serious damage or, despite taking a
penalty, gained a significant advantage in the race or series by
her breach her penalty shall be to retire.

44.2 One-Turn and Two-Turns Penalties

After getting well clear of other boats as soon after the incident as
possible, a boat takes a One-Turn or Two-Turns Penalty by promptly
making the required number of turns in the same direction, each turn
including one tack and one gybe. When a boat takes the penalty at or
near the finishing line, her hull shall be completely on the course side
of the line before she finishes.

44.3

Scoring Penalty

(a) A boat takes a Scoring Penalty by displaying a yellow flag at the

first reasonable opportunity after the incident.

(b) When a boat has taken a Scoring Penalty, she shall keep the
yellow flag displayed until finishing and call the race
committee’s attention to it at the finishing line. At that time she
shall also inform the race committee of the identity of the other
boat involved in the incident. If this is impracticable, she shall
do so at the first reasonable opportunity and within the protest
time limit.

(c) The race score for a boat that takes a Scoring Penalty shall be
the score she would have received without that penalty, made
worse by the number of places stated in the notice of race or
sailing instructions. When the number of places is not stated, the
penalty shall be 20% of the score for Did Not Finish, rounded to
the nearest whole number (0.5 rounded upward). The scores of

Part 4 OTHER REQUIREMENTS WHEN RACING

other boats shall not be changed; therefore, two boats may
receive the same score. However, the penalty shall not cause the
boat’s score to be worse than the score for Did Not Finish.

HAULING OUT; MAKING FAST; ANCHORING

A boat shall be afloat and off moorings at her preparatory signal.
Thereafter, she shall not be hauled out or made fast except to bail out,
reef sails or make repairs. She may anchor or the crew may stand on
the bottom. She shall recover the anchor before continuing in the race
unless she is unable to do so.

PERSON IN CHARGE

A boat shall have on board a person in charge designated by the
member or organization that entered the boat. See rule 75.

TRASH DISPOSAL

Competitors and support persons shall not intentionally put trash in
the water. This rule applies at all times while afloat. The penalty for a
breach of this rule may be less than disqualification.

SECTION B
EQUIPMENT-RELATED REQUIREMENTS

L IMITATIONS ON EQUIPMENT AND CREW

48.1 A boat shall use only the equipment on board at her preparatory signal.

48.2 No person on board shall intentionally leave, except when ill or
injured, or to help a person or vessel in danger, or to swim. A person
leaving the boat by accident or to swim shall be back in contact with
the boat before the crew resumes sailing the boat to the next mark.

CREW POSITION; LIFELINES

49.1 Competitors shall use no device designed to position their bodies
outboard, other than hiking straps and stiffeners worn under the thighs.

49.2 When lifelines are required by the class rules or any other rule,
competitors shall not position any part of their torsos outside them,
except briefly to perform a necessary task. On boats equipped with

Part 4 OTHER REQUIREMENTS WHEN RACING

upper and lower lifelines, a competitor sitting facing outboard with his
waist inside the lower lifeline may have the upper part of his body
outside the upper lifeline. Unless a class rule or any other rule specifies
a maximum deflection, lifelines shall be taut. If the class rules do not
specify the material or minimum diameter of lifelines, they shall
comply with the corresponding specifications in the World Sailing
Offshore Special Regulations.

Note: Those regulations are available at the World Sailing website.

COMPETITOR CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT

50.1

(a) Competitors shall not wear or carry clothing or equipment for

the purpose of increasing their weight.

(b) Furthermore, a competitor’s clothing and equipment shall not
weigh more than 8 kilograms, excluding a hiking or trapeze
harness and clothing (including footwear) worn only below the
knee. Class rules or the notice of race may specify a lower
weight or a higher weight up to 10 kilograms. Class rules may
include footwear and other clothing worn below the knee within
that weight. A hiking or trapeze harness shall have positive
buoyancy and shall not weigh more than 6 kilograms. Weights
shall be determined as required by Appendix H.

(c) A trapeze harness worn by a competitor which may be used to
support the competitor on a trapeze shall be of the quick release
variety complying with ISO 10862 which allows the competitor
to detach from the hook or other method of attachment at any
time. A class rule may change this rule to permit trapeze
harnesses that are not of the quick release variety, but a class rule
may not change the requirement that a quick release harness
comply with ISO 10862.

Note: Rule 50.1(c) does not take effect until 1 January 2023.

50.2 Rules 50.1(b) and 50.1(c) do not apply to boats required to be equipped

with lifelines.

MOVABLE BALLAST

All movable ballast, including sails that are not set, shall be properly
stowed. Water, dead weight or ballast shall not be moved for the
purpose of changing trim or stability. Floorboards, bulkheads, doors,

Part 4 OTHER REQUIREMENTS WHEN RACING

stairs and water tanks shall be left in place and all cabin fixtures kept
on board. However, bilge water may be bailed out.

MANUAL POWER
A boat’s standing rigging, running rigging, spars and movable hull
appendages shall be adjusted and operated only by the power provided
by the crew.

SKIN FRICTION

A boat shall not eject or release a substance, such as a polymer, or have
specially textured surfaces that could improve the character of the flow
of water inside the boundary layer.

FORESTAYS AND HEADSAIL TACKS

Forestays and headsail tacks, except those of spinnaker staysails when
the boat is not close-hauled, shall be attached approximately on a
boat’s centreline.

SETTING AND SHEETING SAILS

55.1 Changing Sails

When headsails or spinnakers are being changed, a replacing sail may
be fully set and trimmed before the replaced sail is lowered. However,
only one mainsail and, except when changing, only one spinnaker shall
be carried set at a time.

55.2

Spinnaker Poles; Whisker Poles

Only one spinnaker pole or whisker pole shall be used at a time except
when gybing. When in use, it shall be attached to the foremost mast.

55.3

Sheeting Sails

No sail shall be sheeted over or through any device that exerts outward
pressure on a sheet or clew of a sail at a point from which, with the
boat upright, a vertical line would fall outside the hull or deck, except:

(a)

(b)

a headsail clew may be connected (as defined in The Equipment
Rules of Sailing) to a whisker pole, provided that a spinnaker is
not set;

any sail may be sheeted to or led above a boom that is regularly
used for a sail and is permanently attached to the mast from
which the head of the sail is set;

Part 4 OTHER REQUIREMENTS WHEN RACING

(c)

a headsail may be sheeted to its own boom that requires no
adjustment when tacking; and

(d)

the boom of a sail may be sheeted to a bumkin.

55.4 Headsails and Spinnakers

For the purposes of rules 54 and 55 and Appendix G, the definitions
of ‘headsail’ and ‘spinnaker’ in The Equipment Rules of Sailing shall
be used.

FOG SIGNALS AND LIGHTS; TRAFFIC SEPARATION
SCHEMES

56.1 When so equipped, a boat shall sound fog signals and show lights as
required by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at
Sea (IRPCAS) or applicable government rules.

56.2 A boat shall comply with rule 10, Traffic Separation Schemes, of the

IRPCAS.

Note: Appendix TS, Traffic Separation Schemes, is available at the
World Sailing website. The notice of race may change rule 56.2 by
stating that Section A, Section B or Section C of Appendix TS applies.

PART 5
PROTESTS, REDRESS, HEARINGS,
MISCONDUCT AND APPEALS

The protest form that was included in previous editions of this book
has been replaced by two forms, a hearing request form and a hearing
decision form. The new forms, in various formats, are available at the
World Sailing website at sailing.org/racingrules/documents. They may
be downloaded and printed.

Note that The Racing Rules of Sailing does not require a particular
form to be used.

Suggestions for improving these forms are welcome and should be sent
to rules@sailing.org.

SECTION A
PROTESTS; REDRESS; RULE 69 ACTION

RIGHT TO PROTEST; RIGHT TO REQUEST REDRESS OR
RULE 69 ACTION

60.1 A boat may

(a) protest another boat, but not for an alleged breach of a rule of
Part 2 or rule 31 unless she was involved in or saw the incident;

(b)

(c)

request redress; or

report to the protest committee requesting action under rule
60.3(d) or 69.2(b).

60.2 A race committee may

request redress for a boat; or

report to the protest committee requesting action under rule
60.3(d) or 69.2(b).

(b)

(c)

Part 5

PROTESTS, REDRESS, HEARINGS, MISCONDUCT AND APPEALS

60.3 A protest committee may

(a) protest a boat, but not as a result of information arising from a
request for redress or an invalid protest, or from a report from a
person with a conflict of interest other than the representative of
the boat herself. However, it may protest a boat

(1)

(2)

if it learns of an incident involving her that may have
resulted in injury or serious damage, or

if during the hearing of a valid protest it learns that the
boat, although not a party to the hearing, was involved in
the incident and may have broken a rule;

(b)

(c)

(d)

call a hearing to consider redress;

act under rule 69.2(b); or

call a hearing to consider whether a support person has broken
a rule, based on its own observation or information received
from any source, including evidence taken during a hearing.

60.4 A technical committee may

(b)

(c)

request redress for a boat; or

report to the protest committee requesting action under rule
60.3(d) or 69.2(b).

60.5 However, neither a boat nor a committee may protest for an alleged
breach of rule 69 or a Regulation referred to in rule 6, unless permitted
by the Regulation concerned.

PROTEST REQUIREMENTS

61.1

Informing the Protestee

(a) The protesting boat shall inform the other boat at the first
reasonable opportunity. When her protest will concern an
incident in the racing area, she shall hail ‘Protest’ and
conspicuously display a red flag at the first reasonable

Part 5

PROTESTS, REDRESS, HEARINGS, MISCONDUCT AND APPEALS

opportunity for each. She shall display the flag until she is no
longer racing. However,

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

if the other boat is beyond hailing distance, the protesting
boat need not hail but she shall inform the other boat at the
first reasonable opportunity;

if the hull length of the protesting boat is less than
6 metres, she need not display a red flag;

if the incident was an error by the other boat in sailing the
course, she need not hail or display a red flag but she shall
inform the other boat either before or at the first reasonable
opportunity after the other boat finishes;

if at the time of the incident it is obvious to the protesting
boat that a member of either crew is in danger, or that
injury or serious damage resulted, the requirements of this
rule do not apply to her, but she shall attempt to inform the
other boat within the time limit of rule 61.3.

(b)

If the race committee, technical committee or protest committee
intends to protest a boat concerning an incident the committee
observed in the racing area, it shall inform her after the race
within the time limit of rule 61.3. In other cases the committee
shall inform the boat of its intention to protest as soon as
reasonably possible. A notice posted on the official notice board
within the appropriate time limit satisfies this requirement.

(c)

If the protest committee decides to protest a boat under rule
60.3(a)(2), it shall inform her as soon as reasonably possible,
close the current hearing, proceed as required by rules 61.2 and
63, and hear the original and the new protests together.

61.2

Protest Contents

A protest shall be in writing and identify

(a)

(b)

the protestor and protestee;

the incident;

(d)

(e)

any rule the protestor believes was broken; and

the name of the protestor’s representative.

However, if requirement (b) is met, requirement (a) may be met at any
time before the hearing, and requirements (d) and (e) may be met

Part 5

PROTESTS, REDRESS, HEARINGS, MISCONDUCT AND APPEALS

before or during the hearing. Requirement (c) may also be met before
or during the hearing, provided the protestee is allowed reasonable
time to prepare for the hearing.

61.3

Protest Time Limit

A protest by a boat, or by the race committee, technical committee or
protest committee about an incident observed in the racing area, shall
be delivered to the race office within the protest time limit stated in
the sailing instructions. If none is stated, the time limit is two hours
after the last boat in the race finishes. Other protests shall be delivered
to the race office no later than two hours after the protestor receives
the relevant information. The protest committee shall extend the time
if there is good reason to do so.

REDRESS

62.1 A request for redress or a protest committee’s decision to consider
redress shall be based on a claim or possibility that a boat’s score or
place in a race or series has been or may be, through no fault of her
own, made significantly worse by

(a)

(b)

an improper action or omission of the race committee, protest
committee, organizing authority or technical committee for the
event, but not by a protest committee decision when the boat was
a party to the hearing;

injury or physical damage because of the action of a boat that
was breaking a rule of Part 2 and took an appropriate penalty or
was penalized, or of a vessel not racing that was required to keep
clear or is determined to be at fault under the IRPCAS or a
government right-of-way rule;

rule 1.1; or

(d)

an action of another boat, or a crew member or support person
of that boat, that resulted in a penalty under rule 2 or a penalty
or warning under rule 69.

62.2 A request shall be in writing and identify the reason for making it. If
the request is based on an incident in the racing area, it shall be
delivered to the race office within the protest time limit or two hours
after the incident, whichever is later. Other requests shall be delivered
as soon as reasonably possible after learning of the reasons for making

Part 5

PROTESTS, REDRESS, HEARINGS, MISCONDUCT AND APPEALS

the request. The protest committee shall extend the time if there is
good reason to do so. No red flag is required.

(a) However, on the last scheduled day of racing a request for
redress based on a protest committee decision shall be delivered
no later than 30 minutes after the decision was posted.

SECTION B
HEARINGS AND DECISIONS

HEARINGS

63.1 Requirement for a Hearing

A boat or competitor shall not be penalized without a protest hearing,
except as provided in rules 30.2, 30.3, 30.4, 64.4(d), 64.5(b), 69, 78.2,
A5.1 and P2. A decision on redress shall not be made without a
hearing. The protest committee shall hear all protests and requests for
redress that have been delivered to the race office unless it allows a
protest or request to be withdrawn.

63.2 Time and Place of the Hearing; Time for Parties to Prepare

All parties to the hearing shall be notified of the time and place of the
hearing, the protest or redress information or the allegations shall be
made available to them, and they shall be allowed reasonable time to
prepare for the hearing. When two or more hearings arise from the
same incident, or from very closely connected incidents, they may be
heard together in one hearing. However, a hearing conducted under
rule 69 shall not be combined with any other type of hearing.

63.3 Right to Be Present

(a) A representative of each party to the hearing has the right to be
present throughout the hearing of all the evidence. When a
protest claims a breach of a rule of Part 2, 3 or 4, the
representatives of boats shall have been on board at the time of
the incident, unless there is good reason for the protest
committee to rule otherwise. Any witness, other than a member
of the protest committee, shall be excluded except when giving
evidence.

(b)

If a party to a hearing does not come to the hearing, the protest
committee may nevertheless proceed with the hearing. If the

Part 5

PROTESTS, REDRESS, HEARINGS, MISCONDUCT AND APPEALS

party was unavoidably absent, the committee may reopen the
hearing.

63.4 Conflict of Interest

(a) A protest committee member shall declare any possible conflict
of interest as soon as he is aware of it. A party to the hearing
who believes a member of the protest committee has a conflict
of interest shall object as soon as possible. A conflict of interest
declared by a protest committee member shall be included in the
written information provided under rule 65.2.

(b) A member of a protest committee with a conflict of interest shall
not be a member of the committee for the hearing, unless

(1)

(2)

all parties consent, or

the protest committee decides that the conflict of interest
is not significant.

(c) When deciding whether a conflict of interest is significant, the
protest committee shall consider the views of the parties, the
level of the conflict, the level of the event, the importance to
each party, and the overall perception of fairness.

(d) However, for World Sailing major events, or for other events as
prescribed by the national authority of the venue, rule 63.4(b)
does not apply and a person who has a conflict of interest shall
not be a member of the protest committee.

63.5 Validity of the Protest or Request for Redress

At the beginning of the hearing the protest committee shall take any
evidence it considers necessary to decide whether all requirements for
the protest or request for redress have been met. If they have been met,
the protest or request is valid and the hearing shall be continued. If
not, the committee shall declare the protest or request invalid and close
the hearing. If the protest has been made under rule 60.3(a)(1), the
committee shall also determine whether or not injury or serious
damage resulted from the incident in question. If not, the hearing shall
be closed.

63.6 Taking Evidence and Finding Facts

(a) The protest committee shall take the evidence, including hearsay
evidence, of the parties present at the hearing and of their
witnesses and other evidence it considers necessary. However,

Part 5

PROTESTS, REDRESS, HEARINGS, MISCONDUCT AND APPEALS

the committee may exclude evidence which it considers to be
irrelevant or unduly repetitive.

(b) A member of the protest committee who saw the incident shall,
while the parties are present, state that fact and may give
evidence.

gives evidence.

(d) The committee shall then give the weight it considers
appropriate to the evidence presented, find the facts and base its
decision on them.

63.7 Conflict Between Rules

If there is a conflict between two or more rules that must be resolved
before the protest committee makes a decision, the committee shall
apply the rule that it believes will provide the fairest result for all boats
affected. Rule 63.7 applies only if the conflict is between rules in the
notice of race, the sailing instructions, or any of the other documents
that govern the event under item (g) of the definition Rule.

63.8 Hearings Involving Parties in Different Events

A hearing involving parties in different events conducted by different
organizing authorities shall be heard by a protest committee
acceptable to those authorities.

63.9 Hearings under Rule 60.3(d) — Support Persons

If the protest committee decides to call a hearing under rule 60.3(d), it
shall promptly follow the procedures in rules 63.2, 63.3, 63.4 and 63.6,
except that the information given to the parties shall be details of the
alleged breach and a person may be appointed by the protest
committee to present the allegation.

DECISIONS

64.1

Standard of Proof, Majority Decisions and Reclassifying Requests

(a) A protest committee shall make its decision based on a balance
of probabilities, unless provided for otherwise in the rule alleged
to have been broken.

(b) Decisions of the protest committee shall be by simple majority
vote of all members. When there is equal division of votes cast,
the chairman may cast an additional vote.

Part 5

PROTESTS, REDRESS, HEARINGS, MISCONDUCT AND APPEALS

(c) The protest committee shall proceed with each case, as a protest,
request for redress or other type of request, based on the
information in the written request or allegation and testimony
during the hearing. This permits the type of case to be changed
if appropriate.

64.2

Penalties

When the protest committee decides that a boat that is a party to a
protest hearing has broken a rule and is not exonerated, it shall
disqualify her unless some other penalty applies. A penalty shall be
imposed whether or not the applicable rule was mentioned in the
protest. If a boat has broken a rule when not racing, her penalty shall
apply to the race sailed nearest in time to that of the incident. However,

(a)

if a boat has taken an applicable penalty, she shall not be further
penalized under this rule unless the penalty for a rule she broke
is a disqualification that is not excludable from her series score;

(b)

if the race is restarted or resailed, rule 36 applies.

64.3 Decisions on Redress

When the protest committee decides that a boat is entitled to redress
under rule 62, it shall make as fair an arrangement as possible for all
boats affected, whether or not they asked for redress. This may be to
adjust the scoring (see rule A9 for some examples) or finishing times
of boats, to abandon the race, to let the results stand or to make some\
other arrangement. When in doubt about the facts or probable results
of any arrangement for the race or series, especially before
abandoning the race, the protest committee shall take evidence from
appropriate sources.

64.4 Decisions on Protests Concerning Class Rules

(a) When the protest committee finds that deviations in excess of
tolerances specified in the class rules were caused by damage or
normal wear and do not improve the performance of the boat, it
shall not penalize her. However, the boat shall not race again
until the deviations have been corrected, except when the protest
committee decides there is or has been no reasonable
opportunity to do so.

(b) When the protest committee is in doubt about the meaning of a
class rule, it shall refer its questions, together with the relevant
facts, to an authority responsible for interpreting the rule. In

Part 5

PROTESTS, REDRESS, HEARINGS, MISCONDUCT AND APPEALS

making its decision, the committee shall be bound by the reply
of the authority.

(c) When a boat is penalized under a class rule and the protest
committee decides that the boat also broke the same rule in
earlier races in the same event, the penalty may be imposed for
all such races. No further protest is necessary.

(d) When a boat penalized under a class rule states in writing that
she intends to appeal, she may compete in subsequent races
without changes to the boat. However, if she fails to appeal or
the appeal is decided against her, she shall be disqualified
without a further hearing from all subsequent races in which she
competed.

(e) Measurement costs arising from a protest involving a class rule
shall be paid by the unsuccessful party unless the protest
committee decides otherwise.

64.5 Decisions Concerning Support Persons

(a) When the protest committee decides that a support person who
is a party to a hearing under rule 60.3(d) or 69 has broken a rule,
it may

(1)

(2)

(3)

issue a warning,

exclude the person from the event or venue or remove any
privileges or benefits, or

take other action within its jurisdiction as provided by the
rules.

(b) The protest committee may also penalize a boat that is a party to
a hearing under rule 60.3(d) or 69 for the breach of a rule by a
support person by changing the boat’s score in a single race, up
to and including disqualification, when the protest committee
decides that

(1)

(2)

the boat may have gained a competitive advantage as the
result of the breach by the support person, or

the support person committed a further breach after the
protest committee warned the boat in writing, following a
previous hearing, that a penalty may be imposed.

Part 5

PROTESTS, REDRESS, HEARINGS, MISCONDUCT AND APPEALS

64.6 Discretionary Penalties

When a boat reports within the protest time limit that she has broken
a rule subject to a discretionary penalty, the protest committee shall
decide the appropriate penalty after taking evidence from the boat and
any witnesses it decides are appropriate.

INFORMING THE PARTIES AND OTHERS

65.1 After making its decision, the protest committee shall promptly inform
the parties to the hearing of the facts found, the applicable rules, the
decision, the reasons for it, and any penalties imposed or redress given.

65.2 A party to the hearing is entitled to receive the above information in
writing, provided she asks for it in writing from the protest committee
no later than seven days after being informed of the decision. The
committee shall then promptly provide the information, including,
when relevant, a diagram of the incident prepared or endorsed by the
committee.

65.3 Unless there is good reason not to do so, after any hearing, including
a hearing under rule 69, the protest committee may publish the
information set out in rule 65.1. The protest committee may direct that
the information is to be confidential to the parties.

65.4 When the protest committee penalizes a boat under a class rule, it shall

send the above information to the relevant class rule authorities.

REOPENING A HEARING

66.1

The protest committee may reopen a hearing when it decides that it
may have made a significant error, or when significant new evidence
becomes available within a reasonable time. It shall reopen a hearing
when required by the national authority under rule 71.2 or R5.

66.2 A party to the hearing may request a reopening in writing no later than

24 hours after being informed of the decision.

(a) However, on the last scheduled day of racing the request shall

be delivered

(1) within the protest time limit if the requesting party was

informed of the decision on the previous day;

(2) no later than 30 minutes after the party was informed of

the decision on that day.

Part 5

PROTESTS, REDRESS, HEARINGS, MISCONDUCT AND APPEALS

66.3

The protest committee shall consider all requests to reopen. When a
request to reopen is being considered or the hearing is reopened,

(a) when based only on new evidence, a majority of the members of
the protest committee shall, if practicable, be members of the
original committee;

(b) when based on a significant error, the protest committee shall, if

practicable, have at least one new member.

DAMAGES

The question of damages arising from a breach of any rule shall be
governed by the prescriptions, if any, of the national authority.

Note: There is no rule 68.

Part 5

PROTESTS, REDRESS, HEARINGS, MISCONDUCT AND APPEALS

SECTION C
MISCONDUCT

MISCONDUCT

69.1 Obligation not to Commit Misconduct; Resolution

(a) A competitor, boat owner or support person shall not commit an

act of misconduct.

(b) Misconduct is:

(1)

(2)

conduct that is a breach of good manners, a breach of good
sportsmanship, or unethical behaviour; or

conduct that may bring, or has brought, the sport into
disrepute.

(c) An allegation of a breach of rule 69.1(a) shall be resolved in
accordance with the provisions of rule 69. It shall not be grounds
for a protest and rule 63.1 does not apply.

69.2 Action by a Protest Committee

(a) A protest committee acting under this rule shall have at least

three members.

(b) When a protest committee, from its own observation or from
information received from any source, including evidence taken
during a hearing, believes a person may have broken rule
69.1(a), it shall decide whether or not to call a hearing.

(c) When the protest committee needs more information to make
the decision to call a hearing, it shall consider appointing a
person or persons
investigation. These
to conduct an
investigators shall not be members of the protest committee that
will decide the matter.

(d) When an investigator is appointed, all relevant information he
gathers, favourable or unfavourable, shall be disclosed to the
protest committee, and if the protest committee decides to call a
hearing, to the parties.

(e)

If the protest committee decides to call a hearing, it shall
promptly inform the person in writing of the alleged breach and
of the time and place of the hearing and follow the procedures
in rules 63.2, 63.3(a), 63.4, 63.6, 65.1, 65.2, 65.3 and 66, except
that:

Part 5

PROTESTS, REDRESS, HEARINGS, MISCONDUCT AND APPEALS

(1) unless a person has been appointed by World Sailing, a
person may be appointed by the protest committee to
present the allegation.

(2)

a person against whom an allegation has been made under
thi

Text truncated at 80,000 characters — see the source PDF for the remainder.

Also filed under 2024-0698: David-Haw-Prevention-of-Future-Deaths-Report-2024-0698.pdf

REGULATION 28:  REPORT TO PREVENT FUTURE DEATHS (1) 

NOTE: This form is to be used after an inquest. 

REGULATION 28 REPORT TO PREVENT FUTURE DEATHS 

THIS REPORT IS BEING SENT TO: 

1.  Secretary of State for Transport 

2.  Chief Executive Officer of the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) 

1  CORONER 

I am Rachael Clare Griffin, Senior Coroner, for the Coroner Area of Dorset. 

2  CORONER’S LEGAL POWERS 

I make this report under paragraph 7, Schedule 5, of the Coroners and Justice 
Act 2009 and Regulations 28 and 29 of the Coroners (Investigations) 
Regulations 2013. 

3 

INVESTIGATION and INQUEST 

On 16th May 2022 I commenced an investigation into the death of David John 
Haw, born on the 9th September 1997 who was, therefore, aged 24 years at the 
time of his death.  

The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 17th December 2024.  

The medical cause of death was: 

Ia Drowning  

The conclusion of the Inquest was unlawful killing.  

4  CIRCUMSTANCES OF THE DEATH 

On the evening of the 1st May 2022, David attended a prize giving event at 
Poole Yacht Club, Poole as part of Poole Regatta having been a member of 
crew for the vessel Off Beat. At just after midnight on the 2nd May 2022 having 
left the event, David as a passenger with others, boarded on a ridged hull 
inflatable boat (RHIB) called Fargo, which was a support boat being used for 
another boat at Poole Regatta. 

The RHIB travelled to Poole Quay Boat Haven, dropped 3 people off and left 
there at 0.15 hours at which point David was sat in the bow of the deck of the 
vessel. At 0.18 hours RHIB Fargo collided with Diver Buoy in Poole Harbour, 
Poole causing David to be thrown out of the vessel into the water. He 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 disappeared and was later recovered from the water on the 14th May 2022, 
about 100 metres from Diver Buoy. 

At the point of the collision the RHIB was being helmed at excessive speed, 
approximately 30 knots, which is 3 times the speed limit for the waters, which 
was not a safe speed. The helm of the vessel did not hold appropriate 
qualifications to helm the boat at night and was under the influence of alcohol at 
the point of the collision. There was no pilotage plan for the journey, nor was 
there a safety briefing or offer to passengers to use lifejackets. There was no 
challenge by the helm to David about his position sitting in the bow of the deck. 
The helm used a navigation app on a phone which is not an approved method of 
navigation and would negatively impact on night vision. The helm failed to keep 
a proper look out. 

5  CORONER’S CONCERNS 

During the course of the inquest the evidence revealed matters giving rise to 
concern. In my opinion there is a risk that future deaths could occur unless 
action is taken. In the circumstances it is my statutory duty to report to you. 

The MATTERS OF CONCERN are as follows.  –  

(1)  As the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) state in Addendum A (RYA) - 
Recommended Notice of Race Wording to their Guidance and Good 
Practice, “Sailing is by its nature an unpredictable sport and therefore 
inherently involves an element of risk.” 

Vessels that operate on the water are categorised as either pleasure or 
commercial vessels under current legislation and the legal requirements 
governing the design, construction and operation are very different, with 
commercial vessels being more heavily regulated.  The definition of a 
pleasure vessel is provided under Regulation 2 of The Merchant 
Shipping (Vessels in Commercial Use for Sport or Pleasure) Regulations 
1998 and any vessel that does not meet the definition under regulation 2, 
is a commercial vessel. 

I have concerns that pleasure vessels are being used in a manner, and 
in conditions, that would be very similar to commercial vessels without 
the same safety mitigation. For example, there is no requirement to have 
a safety briefing prior to a journey on a pleasure vessel, whereas there is 
on a commercial vessel, however the risks may be the same, which can 
include death.  

(2)  Further in relation to pleasure vessels, there is currently no legislation 

prohibiting the use of alcohol or drugs by those who are helming a vessel 
for private or pleasure use, whereas for those helming a commercial 
vessel, there is. The Railways and Transport Safety Act 2003 was 
enacted on 10th July 2003. Section 78 & 79 of that Act created an offence 
for professional mariners to perform their duties if impaired by alcohol, 
with Section 81 setting a prescribed limit for alcohol consumption. This 
position is very similar to an offence of driving a motor vehicle under the 
influence of alcohol. Under Section 80(3) there is a specific offence 
applicable to non-professional mariners of operating a vessel underway 
whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs, however it is not currently 

 
 
 
 
 in force. Accordingly, it is not illegal to helm a pleasure vessel under the 
influence of alcohol or drugs. Helming a vessel under the influence of 
alcohol or drugs could lead to a future death given the impact alcohol 
and drugs have upon perception, control, judgement and decision 
making. 

(3)  Further, I have a concern that personal floatation devices, such as 

lifejackets or buoyance aids are not legally required to be carried on all 
vessels, nor is there any legal requirement to wear lifejackets. The 
current legalisation, The Merchant Shipping (Life-Saving Appliances and 
Arrangements) Regulations 2020, only requires pleasure vessels of over 
13.7 metres in length to carry lifesaving appliances. I have concern that 
the lack of life saving appliances on all vessels could lead to future 
deaths.  

(4)  Finally, I have concerns about the use of support boats, often RHIBs, at 
sailing events or regattas, and particularly when they are used outside of 
the designated sailing time but in a way linked to the event, for example 
to transport people to and from the organised social events linked to the 
regattas, where often there is alcohol available.  

I have concerns that there is a culture of using such support boats as a 
form of taxi particularly at the social events, albeit not for pecuniary gain. 
This means they could come under the definition of a pleasure vessel 
and as those helming these vessels may be in drink, they may not take 
necessary precautions and safety measures given the lack of 
regulations. Further the owner and operator of the vessel may not be 
aware, as was the case in David’s death, of the use of the vessel in this 
way, or of the identity of those on board which may result in the vessel 
falling under the commercial vessel definition for the purposes of those 
journeys with the appropriate regulations not being followed. 

Under Rules 89 and 90 of the World Sailing Racing Rules of Saling 
(RRS20212024Finalwithbookmarks-[27255].pdf) (The Rules) there is a 
requirement for race organisers to issue a “Notice to Race” and “Sailing 
Instructions” for the race. Under Appendix J to the Rules, at paragraph 
J2.2, it is stated “Unless included in the notice of race, the sailing 
instructions shall include those of the following that will apply: …….. (9) 
restrictions on use of support boats, plastic pools, radios, etc.; on trash 
disposal; on hauling out; and on outside assistance provided to a boat 
that is not racing”. 

The RYA in their guidance recommend a risk statement is used by race 
organisers for sailing events, however, the RYA guidance does not 
contain a specific section to deal with the use of support boats. I am 
concerned there is a lack of guidance to organisers of race events to 
ensure that the owners, operators and skippers/helms of vessels are 
aware of the responsibilities around use of support boats during the 
period of sailing events, which could lead to a future death. 

As an example of a Notice to Race, I have been provided with this year’s 
Poole Regatta (found here).  

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 “6  ACTION SHOULD BE TAKEN 

In my opinion action should be taken to prevent future deaths and I believe you 
have the power to take such action.  

7  YOUR RESPONSE 

You are under a duty to respond to this report within 56 days of the date of this 
report, namely by 14th February 2025. I, the coroner, may extend the period. 

Your response must contain details of action taken or proposed to be taken, 
setting out the timetable for action. Otherwise, you must explain why no action is 
proposed. 

8  COPIES and PUBLICATION 

I have sent a copy of my report to the Chief Coroner and to the following 
Interested Persons: 

(1)  David’s Family 
(2) 
(3)  The Maritime and Coastguard agency   

I have also sent it to the following who may find it useful or of interest:  

(1) The UK Harbour Masters Association 
(2) The British Ports Association  
(3) UK Major Ports Group 
(4) The National Water Safety Forum 
(5) The Royal Life Saving Society 
(6) Local Government Association  

I am also under a duty to send the Chief Coroner a copy of your response.  

The Chief Coroner may publish either or both in a complete or redacted or 
summary form. He may send a copy of this report to any person who he 
believes may find it useful or of interest. You may make representations to me, 
the coroner, at the time of your response, about the release or the publication of 
your response by the Chief Coroner. 

9  Signed 

Rachael C Griffin 

HM Senior Coroner for Dorset 

20th December 2024

Also filed under 2024-0698: POOLE_REGATTA_2024_NOR_030424.pdf

www.pooleregatta.co.uk

Notice of Race

25 - 27 MAY 2024

A
N
R
O
M
A
N

Organised by the Combined Yacht Clubs of Poole

P O O L E

A HIDDEN TREASURE

POOLE QUAY
BOAT HAVEN
POOLE QUAY
BOAT HAVEN

POOLE QUAY
POOLE QUAY
BOAT HAVEN
BOAT HAVEN
PORT OF POOLE
PORT OF POOLE
MARINA
MARINA

POOLE QUAY
POOLE QUAY
BOAT HAVEN
BOAT HAVEN

MARINA
OF THE YEAR

2016 - 2017 - 2019 - 2020

Poole Town Quay, Poole, Dorset BH15 1HJ t: 01202 649488 | poolequayboathaven.co.uk

PERMANENT BERTHS
It’s in a private position that makes the most of the views and gorgeous sunsets,
yet it’s still close to Poole’s historic quay, old town and vibrant shopping centre.

• 90 permanent berths

• Superyacht berths

• Floating docks for jet skis

and RIBs up to 6.1m

• 24 hour security

• Deep water: 2.5 - 6m

• Water taxi service, parking

SWINGING MOORINGS
Relax with a glass of wine, on a sunny afternoon, on your own swinging mooring
in Poole Harbour overlooking Brownsea Island. Away from the madding crowd,
these offer you ultimate privacy, peace & tranquillity.

PORT OF POOLE
PORT OF POOLE
MARINA
MARINA
VISITOR MARINA
Use your boat as a holiday home; entertain family, friends, colleagues or
customers on board; sail the stunning Jurassic Coast.

Enjoy all the attractions of Poole, Bournemouth and beautiful Dorset.
A warm welcome always awaits!

• 125 visitor berths all year for vessels
PORT OF POOLE
up to 75m in length and up to 4.8m draft
MARINA

• On the Port estate we can accommodate vessels
up to 210m in length with a maximum draft of 9m.

PORT OF POOLE
MARINA

VHF Channel 80 call sign “Poole Quay Boat Haven”

You know you want to join us on the
water at Poole Regatta 2024!

Our crew look forward to
racing and socialising with
you... but remember, before
you hoist the sails in 2024,
get a boat insurance quote
from the HK-J crew.

For a quote call our friendly crew
on +44 (0)1732 223 650 or head to
HavenKJ.com

HavenKJ.com

Haven Knox-Johnston is a trading name of Howden UK Brokers Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority No. 307663.
Registered in England and Wales under company registration number 02831010. Registered Office: One Creechurch Place, London, EC3A 5AF.
Calls may be monitored and recorded for quality assurance purposes

www.pooleregatta.co.uk

25 - 27 MAY 2024

Incorporating:
GBR IRC National Championship
J80 National Championship
Sonata Southern Championship
VPRS Championship
2.4mR National Tidal Championship
J24 Southern Area Championship
A 2025 J24 Worlds Qualification Event

Regatta racing
for classes with
IRC/VPRS ratings
including:

Performance 40
Contessa 32
Cape 31
Quarter Tonner
Beneteau 27.7
J70

Class results and
prizes awarded for
following classes if
4 or more entries:

Redwing
XOD
Flying Fifteen
R19
Shrimper 19

Welcome from the President

Friday 25th May to Monday 27th May 2024 sees the next International Paint
Poole Regatta and I am delighted to welcome all competitors. We are delighted
to also be hosting the GBR IRC Nationals as part of our event. The first time the
GBR IRC Nationals have been held outside of The Solent

We have up to 4 IRC Classes incorporating the GBR IRC Nationals, 2 VPRS
Classes for the Regional Championship, J80 National Championships, J24
Southern Area Championship - a 2025 J24 Worlds Qualification Event, Sonata
Regional Championships, 2.4mR National Tidal Championship.

Racing for all keel boats including Performance 40, Cape 31, First 40.7, Fast 40’s,
HP30, all ‘J’ boats, Quarter Ton Class, J70, J80, J24, XOD, Flying 15, Shrimper,
Redwing and R19. Altogether in excess of 16 classes over 5 separate race courses
- it is going to be a hectic 3 days

All competitors will again be racing for one of the oldest trophies in yacht racing,
the coveted Canford Cup dating from 1849.

Our showcase event is one of the highlights of the South Coast racing
programme and one not to be missed. We have some of the best racing to be
experienced on the South Coast in the spectacular Poole Bay, with the backdrop
of ’Old Harry’ and the Purbeck Hills, and we pride ourselves on our extensive
organised après race every evening.

This year our Regatta will have a special focus on ‘youth’ with Trophies introduced
to encourage entries that include a youth element in the crew.

I know the Regatta Committee and all the participating sailors are most grateful
and indebted for the continued interest and support of our event sponsors,
International Paint, Haven Knox-Johnston, Poole Harbour Commissioners,
Savills Estate Agents & Surveyors, Salcombe Distilling Co. and Stoneways
Marine Insurance.

We are all concerned about our environment and for that reason our
regatta is being planned in a socially responsible manner: this means
promoting green initiatives to positively influence the environment and benefit
the local community.

I am so grateful to the committee who as always have been working tirelessly
to put in place the best Poole Regatta ever.

The International Paint Poole Regatta will be the first large event of 2024 and we
are expecting a record turnout and the perfect tune up regatta for a very exciting
2024 race season.

I look forward to welcoming you all to Poole.

Our chosen charity for 2024

Andrew Pearce - Regatta President

From our Sponsors

As one of the most recognisable marine brands in the world, International Paint is
proud to be the title sponsor of the Poole Regatta for another year.

We are delighted to welcome back the IRC class for the GBR IRC National
Championship, and also the J80s and the 2.4mRs for their National
Championships. With this expanding fleet Poole Regatta sets out to be one of the
premier South Coast regattas.

International’s high-performance underwater coatings can help to give you the
winning solution where a clean smooth hull can be the difference between first
and second place. Our association with Poole Regatta is driven by our passion for
performance coatings and great yacht racing.

Angus Hewitt
UK Yacht , International Paint LTD

A local

crewyou can
rely on

Our local community means the world to us –
and we’re honoured to be lending our
support to The International Paint Poole
Regatta 2024.

We know your area, because it’s our area too.

Get in touch

savills.co.uk

salcombedistilling.com

Standing by... 03333 609 886 / info@stoneways.co.uk

Cruising and Racing Cover

Enhanced Race Cover

Up to 30% No Claim Discount

Owner & Crew Repatriation

Championship 2024
Supporting

25th-27th May 2024

Yacht & Marine Trade Insurance
with a personal touch for the sailors of Poole

Stoneways Marine Insurance Services LTD trading as Denovo Marine, Denovo Underwriting and Stoneways Marine who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority
(Firm Reference Number 306915). Stoneways Marine Insurance LTD is registered in England. Company Number: 04159381.
Registered Address: Cullimore House, Peasemore, Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 7JN.

stoneways.co.uk

www.pooleregatta.co.uk

Notice of Race

1. Organising Clubs and Sponsors
1.1

The organising authority is the Combined Yacht Clubs of Poole,
principally Royal Motor Yacht Club, Parkstone Yacht Club and
Poole Yacht Club, in conjunction with the Poole Yacht Racing
Association. The organising authority gratefully acknowledge the
help and cooperation of International Paint and a wide range of
associate sponsors.

2. Rules
2.1.

The event is governed by the rules as defined in the Racing Rules of
Sailing (RRS), the Poole Regatta 2024 Sailing Instructions and the
class rules of each competing boat.

2.2. In the event of a clash between the governing documents the

order of precedence is Class Rules, then Sailing Instructions then
Notice of Race (this changes RRS 63.7)

4. Communication
4.1. The official noticeboard is online at www.pooleregatta.co.uk

4.2. For all classes, except in-harbour classes, communications

will be by VHF radio.

4.3. All competitors (except on in-harbour courses) shall carry
a VHF radio capable of communicating on VHF channels
06,08,72,M1/37a,M2/80.

4.4. Additionally, a WhatsApp group specific to each course area

may be used.

4.5. The form of communication used for each course area will be

defined in the Sailing Instructions.

4.6. For in-harbour classes, indicator boards will be used

to denote courses.

2.3. One Design Classes: All competitors shall conform to the safety

5. Eligibility And Entry

requirements of their respective Class Rules.

2.4. All other classes: All boats shall comply with World Sailing OSR

The Regatta is open to all boats of the following classes (The
Organisers reserve the right to add and/or amend classes):

Appendix B

2.5. Variations to class rules:

2.5.1.

2.5.2.

IRC Rule 22.4.2 Crew Number/Weight is deleted and
replaced by “The maximum number of crew that may sail
aboard a yacht shall be the number shown on the certificate
except that; when the crew includes EITHER– at least 2
females, at least 2x 25 years old or under (25 or under on
24 May 2024) OR at least 1 female and 1x 25 years old or
under (25 or under on 24 May 2024) then the crew limit is
certificate number plus 1. There is no weight limit.”

For the purposes of IRC rules 21.1.5 (d) and (e) this regatta
is on consecutive days, yet the sails carried on board need
not remain the same for the duration of the event, but sails
need to remain the same for each day. For the purpose of
this rule the day begins when the boat leaves the harbour
for the first time each day and ends when the boat returns
to the harbour after racing.

2.5.3.

J24: Owners and helms must be members of their NCA, and
will race in accordance with their Class Rules.

2.5.4. Shrimper 19 Class will race to SOA Poole Rules.

2.6. The Post-Race Penalty, Advisory Meeting and RYA Arbitration of

the RYA Rules Disputes procedures are available for breaches of the
rules of RRS Part 2 and RRS 31 only.

2.7. If there is a conflict between languages the English text will

take precedence.

3. Sailing Instructions
3.1

Sailing Instructions should be downloadable from the website no
later than 20 May 2024.

5.1. HANDICAP Classes

5.1.1.

Boats will race either using IRC rating (endorsed or
unendorsed), or VPRS rating.

5.1.2.

Only boats with a current endorsed IRC certificate
between 0.850 and 1.310 will be eligible for the
GBR IRC National Championship.

5.1.3.

IRC ratings cannot be changed within seven days of the
start of the Regatta.

5.1.4.

VPRS: entries will be accepted from displacement cruisers
and cruiser racers that have held a current VPRS rating for at
least 14 days prior to the event.

5.1.5.

Class splits within IRC and VPRS will depend on the ratings
and the number of entries received.

5.2. ONE DESIGN Classes

5.2.1.

A minimum of four entries is needed from any one design
class. If a class does not reach this threshold, entry fees will
be refunded in full to affected boats.

5.2.2.

Six or more entries are needed for a class start;
if this threshold is not reached, starts may be shared
with similar classes.

5.3. Entries can be made at www.pooleregatta.co.uk on or before

2359hrs on 19 May 2024.

5.4. To be considered an entry in the event, a boat shall complete all

registration requirements and pay all fees.

5.5. Entries withdrawn on or before 24 May 2024 will be refunded

subject to a handling fee of 20%.

6. Crew Limitations
6.1. J24. Substitution of helm or crew after registration and initial

weigh-in must be applied for in writing and must be agreed by
the Race Committee before the substitution takes place. Crew
weighing will be in accordance with NoR 10.1.4

7. Fees
7.1.

The schedule of Entry and Berthing fees is shown below. Fees for further classes may be added at a later date.

Schedule of Fees
IRC and handicap class splits and starts to be published at a later date

Class

Discounted Entry Fee
(available until 2359
on 13 April)

Standard Entry Fee
(14 April until 19 May)

Discounted berthing
3 nights - 24 - 26 May

Extra nights
(22, 23 May
and/or 27 May)

IRC yachts

Above 12m

11m to <12m

10m to <11m

< 10m

VPRS yachts (Regatta Handicap)

9m and above

7m to <9m

<7m

One Design classes

J24 / J70/ J80 and Sonata

Shrimper

Redwing

XOD

Flying Fifteen

R19

2.4mR

£250

£210

£180

£150

£125

£100

£125

£50

£350

£300

£250

£200

£170

£150

£170

£80

£180

£155

£130

£110

£130

£110

£90

£110

£70

N/A

£70

N/A

£70

£36

£65

£55

£45

£40

£45

£40

£35

£40

£24

N/A

£24

N/A

£24

£12

7.2. Berthing fees include visitor harbour dues.

7.3. A daily rate is available at half the standard three-day rate

(per day).

7.4. The discounted entry fee is available to entries made before

2359 on 13 April 2024.

7.5. Late entry: entries made after 19 May will be at the discretion of

the Organising Authority, and will be subject to a surcharge of
50% of the standard entry fee.

7.6. Launch and recovery package (£120) and Self launching/trailer
storage package (£40) can be booked as part of the entry
process. The location for launching and recovery will be advised
at a later date. Support boat berthing shall be booked as part of
the entry process.

7.7. Entry fee includes a programme of social events.

7.8. For queries about any other classes and services, please contact

the Secretary (see NoR 25 below).

8. Advertising
8.1. Advertising shall be in accordance with Class Rules, World

Sailing Regulation 20 and RYA prescriptions.

8.2. In all cases advertising in conflict with the sponsors of the event

will not be permitted.

10. Schedule
10.1. Registration
10.1.1.

The Registration Point for each competitor
will be located at the marina or club allocated
for the weekend.

10.1.2. Registration must be completed before the start

of the first race.

10.1.3. The Registration Points will be open:

Friday 24 May from 1600 until 2000;
Saturday 25 May from 0800 until 0900.

10.1.4. Launching times to be advised, on Friday 24 May latest

launch is 1600.

10.1.5. Crew weigh-in will only be available at Parkstone YC,
where registration will also be open on Friday 24 May
from 1300 to 2000, and on Saturday 25 May from
0800 to 0900.

10.1.6. The registration timetable may be amended – this will

be notified on the website.

10.2. Programme

10.2.1. The intended race programme is set out below. This may

be adjusted if there is a need to complete the full race
programme of 8 races.

10.2.2. No warning signal will be made after 1330

on Monday 27 May.

9. Clothing And Equipment
None

Racing Programme (provisional)

Date

First Warning Signals - (all courses)

Race programme

Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 May

Monday 27 May

1025

Target: 3 races. Additional races may be sailed at CRO discretion

Target: 2 races: Additional races may be sailed at CRO discretion

Prizegiving: 1600 approx at Parkstone Yacht Club

11. Equipment Inspection
11.1. By entering the regatta, each boat verifies the existence of a

valid measurement or rating certificate.This may be requested
as part of the registration process.

11.2. Measurement spot checks, including checks of documentation,

may be made at any time at the discretion of the Race
Committee.

11.3. Failure to register (or to produce any certificates required) may
result in the boat entry being cancelled under RRS 76.1 with no
refund of entry fee.

12. Venue
12.1. Racing will take place in Poole Bay, Poole Harbour and adjacent
waters (as appropriate). The larger boats will race within the
Bay, the smaller boats will race within the Harbour. Some
smaller boats may also race in the Bay.

12.2. Race charts will be on the regatta website.

13. Courses
13.1. The courses to be sailed will be described in the Sailing

Instructions.

13.2. A mixture of windward/leeward, sausage/triangle, triangle/

sausage, trapezoid and “round-the-cans” courses may be set.

14. Penalty System
14.1. RRS 44.1 shall apply, except that for those classes defined in

the Sailing Instructions. (this changes RRS 44.1)

15. Scoring
15.1. Two races are required to be completed to constitute a series.

15.2. When fewer than four races have been completed, a boat’s

series score will be the total of her race scores.

15.3. When from four to eight races have been completed, a boat’s

series score will be the total of her race scores excluding her
worst score.

16. Support Person Vessels
16.1. Support boats shall be booked in on the entry form.

16.2. Support boats shall remain at least 100m from the course area

while racing is in progress [DP].

17. Berthing
17.1. Boats shall be kept in their daily assigned place whilst

in their marina.

18. Haul Out Restrictions
18.1. Except for Flying Fifteen class, boats shall not be hauled out
during the regatta unless with the written permission of the
Race Committee.

19. Diving Equipment And Plastic Pools
19.1. No use of diving equipment in any marina during the regatta

unless with the written permission of the Race Committee.

20. Media Publicity: Rights to Names
and Likenesses
By entering for this event, all competitors grant permission to
the Organising Authority and official event sponsors for the use
of their photograph, voice, likeness and image in written reports
and broadcasts of this event and in subsequent publications,
advertisements or productions drawn from photographic, video or
audio recording of this event.

21. Risk Statement
21.1. Rule 3 of the Racing Rules of Sailing states: “The responsibility

for a boat’s decision to participate in a race or to continue racing
is hers alone”.

21.2. Sailing is by its nature an unpredictable sport and therefore
inherently involves an element of risk. By taking part in the
event, each competitor agrees and acknowledges that:

21.2.1. They are aware of the inherent element of risk involved

in the sport and accept responsibility for the exposure of
themselves, their crew and their boat to such inherent
risk whilst taking part in the event.

21.2.2. They are responsible for the safety of themselves,

their crew, their boat and other property, whether afloat
or ashore.

21.2.3. They accept responsibility for any injury, damage or loss

to the extent caused by their own actions or omissions.

21.2.4. Their boat is in good order, equipped to sail in the event

and they are fit to participate.

21.2.5. The provision of a race management team, patrol

boats and other officials and volunteers by the event
organising authority does not relieve them of their
own responsibilities.

21.2.6. The provision of patrol boat cover is limited to such

assistance, particularly in extreme weather conditions,
as can be practically provided in the circumstances.

21.2.7. It is their responsibility to familiarise themselves with

any risks, regulations and/or bye-laws specific to sailing
or racing in Poole Harbour and Poole Bay including:

• Tidal conditions which are complex with areas of

shallow water common, as well as very fast tidal flows in
parts of the harbour and around the entrance.

• The area is used by a wide variety of craft, including

large commercial vessels restricted in their ability to
manoeuvre, a chain ferry in the harbour entrance which
has priority over other traffic and, at times, high volumes
of leisure boat traffic.

• The Convention on the International Regulations for

Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREG) 1972 and local
byelaws apply to all these craft including racing yachts.

• The Poole Harbour Sail Racing Procedures issued

by Poole Harbour Commissioners, which place
requirements on all persons subject to RRS competing
within the harbour.

21.2.8. They are responsible for ensuring that their boat is

equipped and seaworthy so as to be able to face
extremes of weather; that there is a crew sufficient
in number, experience and fitness to withstand such
weather; and that the safety equipment is properly
maintained, stowed and in date and is familiar to
the crew.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

22. Data Protection
22.1. The personal information you provide to the organising authority

will be used to facilitate your participation in the event.

22.2. If you have agreed to be bound by the racing rules of sailing
and the other rules that govern the event, the legal basis for
processing that personal information is contract. If you are not
bound by the rules, the legal basis for processing information is
legitimate interest.

22.3. Your personal information will be stored and used in accordance
with the organising authority’s privacy policy (available on www.
pooleregatta.co.uk).

22.4. When required by the rules personal information may be shared

with the RYA and the World Sailing.

22.5. Results of the event and the outcome of any hearing or appeal

may be published.

23. Insurance
23.1. Each participating boat shall be insured with valid third-party
liability insurance with a minimum cover of £3,000,000 per
incident or equivalent.

24. Prizes
24.1. Trophies and Prizes will be awarded in proportion to the number
of entries in each class in addition to prizes awarded for each
championship.

24.2. There will be a prize fund across all classes from International

Paint and other event sponsors.

24.3. The overall prize for the GBR IRC National Championship will be

awarded to the yacht with the lowest resultant score when the
following formula is applied: A yacht’s series score divided by
(number of scored races minus 1) divided by (Number of entries in
class plus 2).

24.4. The Canford Cup and the Kleinwort Benson Trophy will be

awarded for the boat with the most creditable performance across
all classes. (The Canford Cup will be retained at Poole Museum
after the event).

24.5. The Youth Trophy will be awarded to the boat with the most

creditable performance across all classes, where at least 50% of
the crew is 25 years old or under on 24 May 2024.

24.6. Trophies listed in 24.3 and 24.4 will be awarded at the sole

discretion of the organising authority.

24.7. The Dehler Cup, Dehler Plate and the Elan Cup will be run in

conjunction with the main Regatta, and will be open to all Dehler
and Elan yachts.

24.8. Daily prizes will be awarded to race winners in each class (if a
winner is not present, the prize will be awarded to the highest
finisher in attendance in each class).

24.9. Additional spot prizes may be awarded to those present at the

daily prize givings.

24.10. The Martin Pearson Above and Beyond Memorial Award will be

awarded by the organising committee.

25. Further Information
All enquiries should be addressed to the Secretary of the IPPRC
(International Paint Poole Regatta Committee)

Jenny Peters, email: yafflewood@aol.com.

Useful phone numbers are:
Parkstone Yacht Club - 01202 743610
Poole Yacht Club - 01202 672687
Royal Motor Yacht Club - 01202 707227
Poole Quay Boat Haven – 01202 649488.

Berthing Information

Berths have been reserved at Poole Quay Boat Haven, with additional
berths available at Parkstone Yacht Club and Poole Yacht Club, all
at discounted prices, and these will be allocated on application. We
strongly recommend that you book with your entry, as we cannot
guarantee there will be any berthing to spare as the Regatta date
approaches. All Regatta berthing is being administered by the
Regatta committee.

Racing yachts may be rafted up to increase the number of berths.
If demand warrants it, further pontoon berths with facilities will be
made available at other locations within the harbour.

Berthing Locations
IRC, VPRS (Regatta handicap), Performance 40, Contessa 32, Cape
31, Quarter Ton, Beneteau 27.7, Sonata, J24, J70 and J80 will be
allocated berths at Poole Quay Boat Haven.

For Sonatas, J24s, J70s, and J80s, if your boat requires launching,
this will be by arrangement at Parkstone Yacht Club. These boats
will then be sailed the short distance to Poole Quay Boat Haven –
arrangements will be made for connections by land. Please book
online on entry if you require this facility. Trailer storage will also be
included. Please note that the latest launch on Friday 24 May is 1600,
other launch times to be advised.

2.4mR will be launched and berthed at Poole YC, Flying 15 and
Shrimper will be launched and berthed at Parkstone YC. For 2.4mR
and Flying 15 launch/recovery and trailer storage is included in the
berthing fee.

Berthing will be available for support boats at Poole Quay Boat
Haven, and you must state on entering that you require such a berth,
when you will be sent a link to book this.

For any queries, or if at a later date you require extra nights
or a launching service for your yacht, please contact:
secretary@pooleregatta.co.uk

Our chosen charity for 2024

Poole Sailability
Sailing is an activity that able-bodied and disabled can
enjoy together. Poole Sailability is a local charity that
enables those with impaired health and disability to enjoy
sailing in Poole Harbour.

On Friday mornings we have a Community Outreach
session when we welcome disability groups, schools and
carers, and for individuals interested in a free trial sail, we
also sail on Wednesdays and Sundays.

Each of our four Hawk keelboats can take up to five
people, and are fast, fun and very stable.

Poole Sailability is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation
(1166542) that is entirely managed and run by volunteers.
We are also an accredited Royal Yachting Association
(RYA) Sailability Centre.

Social Programme

Friday 24 May – Competitors’ Reception
We are delighted to invite all entrants to a Reception from 1900
until 2100 on board the Greenslade boat “Purbeck Princess”.

The boat will be moored alongside Poole Quay Boat Haven, with
access from the Quay. The bar will be open throughout, with free
beer, courtesy of Sandbanks Brewery, and alternative drinks will
be available. Light snacks will also be provided.

Purbeck Princess”

Parkstone Yacht Club

Poole Yacht Club

Saturday 25 May
Poole Yacht Club will

host this evening.

Sunday 26 May

Parkstone Yacht Club will host this evening.

Both clubs will have:
• Prizegiving for the day’s racing
• Results and daily photo shots on display
• Wide choice of food available from 1800
• Special bar promotions
• Music & entertainment

Monday 27 May
The Prizegiving will be hosted by Parkstone YC.
• Prizegiving for the day’s racing
• Bar open throughout
• Overall prizegiving at 1600 approx.

Inter-Club Transport

We are pleased to announce that we have arranged free water
transport, provided by one of the Greenslade Pleasure Boats, the
Purbeck Gem, and a free late-night taxi service by minibus, provided
by Bennetts Mini Coaches, for the Evenings and the Prizegiving.

There will be a continuous water taxi service between Parkstone YC,
Poole YC and the Poole Quay Boat Haven on the evenings
of Saturday 25 May and Sunday 26 May, with a detailed timetable
to follow.

On both evenings a late-night service by minibus will then run
between 2200 and midnight, as a continuous shuttle with no times,
leaving when the vehicle has customers.

For the prizegiving on Monday 27 May, the same
free water taxi service will run between Poole YC, Poole Quay Boat
Haven and Parkstone YC. The water taxi will wait at the venue to
return passengers after the prizegiving.

The Canford Cup
Discovered when it appeared at Auction, The Canford Cup is
amongst the oldest sailing trophies in the world. It predates the
America’s Cup ‘Auld Mug’ by two years.

Poole and Bournemouth Regatta 1849
The 1849 Regatta took place on Friday August
10th 1849, when three races were held.

The third race, according to the
announcement of the Regatta which
appeared in “Bell’s Life in London and
Sporting Chronicle” on 22nd July 1849,
was for:

“The Canford Cup, presented by Sir John Josiah
Guest, Bart., M.P.; for yachts not exceeding 15
tons o.m.; a time race; entrance 10s; three to
start or no race”

This cup, a George IV silver vase, was
originally created in 1822 by Robert
Hennell of London, one of a well-known
family of silversmiths. It was subsequently
purchased by Sir John Guest, who had the
cup embossed with a yacht racing scene

and engraved “Poole Regatta 1849”. Sir John
Guest had purchased the Manor of Canford in
1846, so named this The Canford Cup. (The
house is now Canford School, at Canford
Magna, on the northern edge of Poole).

After this the cup seems to have disappeared
from view into private collections. It came
up for auction in October 2015 and was
purchased by Poole Museum, with the
help of donations from the Poole Regatta
Committee, Poole Yachting Association,
various yacht clubs and individuals from
Poole.

The Canford Cup is now presented to the
overall winner of the biennial Poole Regatta
and retained permanently on view at Poole
Museum.

Canford Cup Winners
1849 Gleam - 15 tons: P Roberts Esq.
of the Southern Yacht Club,
Southampton

2016 Aguila - Quarter ton: Sam Laidlaw

2018 Marvel – VPRS1: Richard Powell

2022 Who’s Next – VPRS1: Ed Wilton

Poole Regatta 2024 aims to become one of the most
sustainable regattas in the UK.

T he organising committee made the

decision in 2020 to make changes
to the organisation, administration and
performance aims. Through the pandemic
lockdowns, planning continued with the
committee meeting regularly on Zoom.

Since face to face meetings have returned,
we have continued to use Zoom for those
committee members that are not local,
substantially reducing the mileage driven.

All documentation, minutes and other
paperwork is delivered electronically.

The amount of printing in previous years
has been a major target for improvement,
the Notice of Race has been delivered
electronically in almost all cases with
only100 printed copies instead of 2000
in earlier regattas. The Sailing instructions
will only be available electronically. The
official Notice board during the regatta will
be online

The Results office will be minimising
printing, and the intention is that the
only hard copies will be those on the
committee boats to record time - all
results will be posted directly on the event
website. Protest forms will be available
online and can also be completed and
submitted online.

Useful contact details
Parkstone Yacht Club Haven
Telephone: 01202 738824
Call sign: Parkstone Haven - VHF
Ch 37 and 80

In previous years we have printed tickets
for the free beer at the Competitors’
Reception, but for the 2022 regatta, in
what we think was a UK first, we used
fully Biodegradable Eco beer tokens which
again will be handed out at registration.
This year’s race charts will again be printed
on waterproof paper instead of being
laminated to reduce use of plastics. This
year we have decided against using bow
stickers to reduce use of plastics. The car
window stickers we have made to publicise
the regatta are now fully compostable.

Historically, the meals for the committee
boats and attendant RIBs have been
outsourced and delivered to the yacht
clubs by car on a daily basis. This year
the meals are in-house sourced at Poole
Yacht Club and all foods provided will be
in recyclable wrappings. All foods are then
delivered daily by one of the committee
boats from Poole directly to the other
committee boats and RIBS.

The competitor packs given out on
registration will include Waterproof paper
race charts, Eco beer tokens and reusable
backstay flags, and will be delivered in
Biodegradable bags.

All of the marinas being used for
competitor berthing will have the usual
waste and recycling facilities.

Poole Yacht Club Haven
Telephone: 01202 688202
Mobile: 07469 647305
Call sign: Pike - VHF Ch 37 and 80

Royal Motor Yacht Club Bosun
Telephone: 01202 700904
Call sign: Bantam 1 - VHF Ch 37

We are again running a free ferry and
minibus service for competitors between
the three marinas for the evening social
events and the prizegiving, this will reduce
the amount of car journeys required.

The committee continue to look at ways of
improving sustainability and have decided
that part of each entry fee received will
be donated to Oceans to Earth to help
towards the various green projects that
they run.

We will continue to look at ways that we
can improve sustainability and welcome
suggestions and advice from anybody.

Our Sponsors have their own policies on
sustainability and below are links to some
of them.

International Paint
www.akzonobel.com/en/about-us/
sustainability-

PHC
www.phc.co.uk/environment/
environmental-policy-statement/

Salcombe Distilling Co
www.salcombegin.com/sustainability

Savills
www.savills.co.uk/why-savills/esg.aspx

Poole Quay Boat Haven
Telephone: 01202 649488
Call sign: Poole Quay Boat Haven - VHF
Ch 80

The International Paint Poole Regatta Committee would like to thank:

International Paint

Poole Yacht Club

Quay West Chandlers

Poole Harbour Commissioners

Royal Motor Yacht Club

Haven Knox-Johnston

Lilliput Sailing Club

Savills

Salcombe Distilling Co

Sandbanks Brewery Ltd

Parkstone Yacht Club

Poole Yacht Racing Association

Poole Quay Boat Haven

Greenslade Pleasure Boats

Morgan Carey Architects

Sanders Sails

Stoneways

The Rig Shop

And the member clubs
of Poole Yachting Association

We would also like to record our grateful thanks to all the volunteers from the Combined Clubs of Poole,
without whom this event could not take place

We look forward
to seeing you
at the next
Poole Regatta

23 MAY - 25 MAY
2026

www.sanders-sails.co.uk info@sanders-sails.co.uk 01590 673981 One DesignOffshoreRound the CansSANDERSsails byAward winning
While you’re doing this…

…we’re doing this.

When you’re out on the water, you shouldn’t have to worry about what’s going on
underneath it. That’s why we’ve been out in the field, designing, testing and optimising
our coatings to safeguard your boat from fouling. Our results? A streamlined new range
of antifoulings, featuring Micron® 350 – the ultimate fusion of performance, convenience
and superior colour.

Below the waterline? We’ve got it covered.

international-yachtpaint.com

All trademarks mentioned in this publication are owned by, or licensed to, the AkzoNobel group of companies. © AkzoNobel 2017.

8417/1117

Responses

2 responses published against this report on judiciary.uk. A response is a body's written reply to the coroner's concerns; publication is at the discretion of the Chief Coroner's office, so an absent response does not mean nobody replied.

Response from Department for Transport (PDF)

Rachael C Griffin  
HM Senior Coroner for Dorset  

From the Parliamentary  
Under Secretary of State 

Great Minster House 
33 Horseferry Road 
London 
SW1P 4DR 

Tel: 0300 330 3000 
E-Mail: 

Web site: www.gov.uk/dft 

Our Ref: 

      26 February 2025 

Dear Rachael,  

I am grateful for your careful consideration of the circumstances of the tragic 
accident involving David John Haw and highlighting the opportunities for 
improvement in safety in your Regulation 28 Report to Prevent Future Deaths 
of 20 December 2024. I apologise for the delay in responding and appreciate 
the extension you granted.  

We are constantly striving to improve safety for all including the large number 
of recreational mariners who use our waters. Legislation is already in place to 
enable those, such as ports, who have responsibility for managing a 
particular stretch of water or coastline to introduce laws to ensure safety 
within these areas. We believe these organisations remain best placed to 
understand what is appropriate for local circumstances given the wide 
variations in both geography and recreational usage around the country.  

There is now a greater range of vessels undertaking a wider scope of 
activities than ever before. In acknowledging the diversity of pleasure vessels 
and the waters in which they operate, owners and users are entrusted with 
the responsibility of taking suitable measures to ensure safety, while the 
Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) will always work to ensure proper 
regulation is applied as appropriate.  

Whilst pleasure vessels are not subject to many of the specific regulations 
that small commercial vessels are, they do remain in scope of the regulatory 
frameworks set out by Merchant Shipping Act 1995 (MSA), and in particular 
the Merchant Shipping (Distress Signals and Prevention of Collisions) 
Regulations 1996 (SI 1996 no. 75). As such, if a pleasure vessel was being 
operated in such a way that was “dangerously unsafe” there are mechanisms 
under Section 100 of the MSA to take appropriate action. Likewise, if the 
consumption of alcohol was a contributing factor and meant the vessel 
operator was unable to keep a proper lookout, this too would be a 
prosecutable offence under UK Regulations.  

 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Turning to recreational mariner alcohol limits, the Railways and Transport 
Safety Act provides alcohol limits and corresponding offences for professional 
mariners, however no proscribed limits for alcohol have been set for 
recreational mariners. As noted above, there is already an offence which can 
be applied in these circumstances under the Merchant Shipping Act 1995. To 
date, the Department has held three consultations on this issue, the latest a 
request for evidence to inform a review of the position in 2021. Responses 
have continued to demonstrate the significant challenges to the introduction 
of alcohol (and drug) limits for recreational mariners. These noted strong 
views, both for and against. They also highlighted that the number of serious 
incidents involving recreational mariners where alcohol was a causal factor is, 
thankfully, extremely low and that statistics alone do not support the 
introduction of a national limit. We will continue to keep the evidence base 
under review and to work with partners in the sector focussing on improving 
awareness of the risks of drinking and sailing.  

Although there is currently no legislation requiring the mandatory wearing of 
personal floatation devices (PFDs) on any pleasure vessel in the UK, there is 
not yet sufficient evidence to justify a regulatory intervention to this effect. 
Some local water authorities, ports and marinas do require this under their 
by-laws and, of course, voluntary wear is strongly encouraged as publicised 
by the MCA through Marine Guidance Note (MGN) 599 (M) Amendment 1 
“Pleasure vessels – Regulations and Exemptions – Guidance and Best 
Practice Advice”. This MGN also provides a range of guidance and best 
practice advice for pleasure vessel owners which includes appropriate 
training and avoiding consumption of alcohol as well as the wearing of PFDs.  

The introduction of more detailed regulatory obligations on the owners and 
operators of pleasure vessels would be a fundamental change to this status 
quo, with significant resource implications, for vessel owners as well as for 
Government, in bringing the pleasure vessel fleet under closer regulatory 
oversight. 

I would like to take this opportunity to reassure you that my officials within the 
MCA are working hard to bring forward new legislation and an updated Sport 
or Pleasure Vessel Code as soon as practical to improve small commercial 
vessel safety. The MCA will continue to work to ensure that pleasure vessel 
owners and operators take seriously their responsibilities for ensuring the 
safety of those onboard their vessels. 

Yours sincerely, 

MINISTER FOR AVIATION, MARITIME, AND SECURITY

Response from Royal Yachting Association (PDF)

RYA House

Ensign Way, Hamble
Southampton, SO31 4YA
United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0)23 8060 4100
www.rya.org.uk

Mrs Rachael C Griffin
Senior Coroner for Dorset
Civic Centre

Bourne Avenue
Bournemouth

BH2 6DY

13 February 2025

Reference: Regulation 28 Report to prevent future deaths
Dear Mrs Griffin,

Thank you for your communication of 20°" December. | have been asked by EEN (CEO) to
respond on behalf of the RYA to the points raised.

Prior to doing so, it may be worthwhile providing some context about the RYA and, in particular, the
extent of our authority.

The RYA is the national governing body for sailing and certain other forms of boating in the UK. We
provide training courses for both recreational boaters and masters of small commercial vessels, with
RYA qualifications for the latter being formally recognised for commercial use by the UK’s maritime
regulator, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA). RYA training schemes were first introduced in
1970, and now extend to 58 countries, with our training delivered through a network of 2,300
independently owned and operated “RYA Training Centres.”

The RYA is also the Member National Authority for World Sailing, the international federation for the
sport of sailing and accordingly has certain functions under the Racing Rules of Sailing.

Whilst the RYA has the authority to determine the standards for its courses and for the conditions
under which RYA recognised training centres operate, it does not have the authority to determine or
enforce standards for operations within either the recreational sector or small commercial vessel
secto. This responsibility falls to the MCA as the UK maritime regulator, and to local harbour authorities
who have certain powers within their respective jurisdiction.

That said, the RYA has always had a primary focus on safety and for that reason we take a proactive
approach to influencing change where we can, either through influencing the behaviour of the boating
public and commercial operators, or through work with organisations such as the Marine Accident
Investigation Branch (MAIB) and MCA, and others.

RYA House

Ensign Way, Hamble
Southampton, SO31 4YA
United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0)23 8060 4100
www.ryq.org.uk

The RYA supports regulation where this can be shown to be proportionate, clear, and enforceable.
Where this is not the case the RYA believes that alternatives to regulation such as publicity, training
and education are more appropriate techniques to influence behaviour.

| have consulted with colleagues across the RYA with regards the concerns you have expressed. Their
responses are as follows:

1) Distinction between pleasure vessels and commercial vessels
The distinction between the requirements for commercial vessels and pleasure vessels has
been a long-standing feature of UK maritime legislation.
Similar distinctions exist within the road transport sector where vehicles of the same type may
be subject to different regulations depending on whether they are being used privately or
commercially, and so differing standards of regulation based on use is common practice.

The Merchant Shipping (Vessels in Commercial Use for Sport or Pleasure) Regulations 1998
defines a pleasure vessel as:

(a) any vessel which at the time it is being used is:

(aa) in the case of a vessel wholly owned by an individual or individuals, used
only for the sport or pleasure of the owner or the immediate family or friends of
the owner; or

(bb) in the case of a vessel owned by a body corporate, used only for sport or
pleasure and on which the persons on board are employees or officers of the
body corporate, or their immediate family or friends; and

(ii) on a voyage or excursion which is one for which the owner does not receive money
for or in connection with operating the vessel or carrying any person, other than as a
contribution to the direct expenses of the operation of the vessel incurred during the
voyage or excursion; or

(b) any vessel wholly owned by or on behalf of a members' club formed for the purpose of
sport or pleasure which, at the time it is being used, is used only for the sport or pleasure of
members of that club or their immediate family, and for the use of which any charges levied
are paid into club funds and applied for the general use of the club; and

(c) in the case of any vessel referred to in paragraphs (a) or (b) above no other payments are
made by or on behalf of users of the vessel, other than by the owner.

The RYA believes that this definition results in an appropriate distinction between pleasure
vessels and commercial vessels, and notes that regarding a pleasure vessel as a commercial
vessel just because the owner takes friends onboard, permits another to use his boat, or allows
it to be used to drop friends to other boats would be disproportionate, unclear and

RYA House

Ensign Way, Hamble
Southampton, SO31 4YA
United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0)23 8060 4100
www.rya.org.uk

unenforceable from a practical perspective. Alternatively, attempting to impose commercial
regulations (which range from qualifications of skippers and crew through to design and
maintenance and standards of the vessel) on all vessels would be disproportionate.

From a practical perspective, while the RYA notes the tragic circumstances of this case, the RYA
questions if increased regulation would have changed the outcome, and notes that existing
regulations applicable to the boat, including Section 100 of the Merchant Shipping Act, and a
range of local byelaws, including a speed limit were ignored. Accordingly, the benefit of
subjecting such vessels to additional regulation would appear to have limited benefit in
comparison to raising awareness of the need to operate a boat in a safe and responsible way,
irrespective of any underlying regulation.

2) Alcohol and Boating
The RYA promotes safe and responsible recreational boating. It encourages boaters to behave
responsibility and understand the impacts of alcohol and believes that those involved in the
Operation of a watercraft should not be under the influence of alcohol (or any other
substance).

The RYA does not support the implementation of Section 80 of the Railways and Transport
Safety Act 2003 as drafted on the basis that the safe operation of a boat does not always fall
to a single person, which raises the practical issue of who onboard a recreational boat should
be subject to alcohol limits. Further practical considerations arise around the difficulties of
enforcing alcohol limits while at sea, (outside of areas patrolled by Harbour Authorities).

The RYA notes that while there is no specific offence relating to the operation of a pleasure
vessel while under the influence of alcohol, Section 100 of the Merchant Shipping Act 1995
imposes an obligation on the owner of a ship to take all reasonable steps to secure that the
ship is operated in a safe manner. Accordingly, if a vessel is operated in an unsafe way as a
result of alcohol, the owner of that vessel may be prosecuted. Focusing on the impact on safety
rather than imposing an arbitrary alcohol limit allows for a more flexible approach to be taken
and ultimately would allow action to be taken even if a maximum alcohol limit had not been
reached. Focusing on the owner rather than skipper also removes the difficulty of ascertaining
who onboard the vessel is responsible at a given time and emphasises the requirement for the
owner to retain responsibility for the operation of their vessel even when they are not
onboard.

Additionally, local harbour authorities generally have powers to implement local bylaws
relating to the safety of water within their jurisdiction. Poole Harbour Commissioners already
have a bylaw which requires vessels to be navigated with care and caution, at such speed and
in such a manner as not to endanger lives or cause injury or be a nuisance, thereby covering a
vessel being operated in an unsafe way as a result of alcohol and at high speed.

RYA House

Ensign Way, Hamble
Southampton, SO31 4YA
United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0)23 8060 4100
www.rya.org.uk

As a result, the RYA believes that appropriate means already exist to address concerns relating
to alcohol and recreational boating. Accordingly, the RYA does not believe that implementing
Section 80 of the Railways and Transport Safety Act 2003, or otherwise introducing an arbitrary
alcohol limit for recreational boat users would be proportionate, effective, or indeed,
enforceable, and instead recommends that effort is focused on issuing guidance to the
recreational community around the impacts of alcohol and utilising the existing legislative
frameworks when it is appropriate to do so.

3) Lifejackets
The RYA is of the view that a lifejacket or buoyancy aid should be worn at all times unless it is
safe to take it off.

Any decision to mandate the carriage of personal flotation devices for all vessels would be a
matter for the Secretary of State for Transport and not for the RYA. The practical difficulties of
enforcing the carriage of lifejackets are highlighted, given that pleasure vessels are not subject
to the same inspection regime as commercial vessels, and it is also noted that the existing
legislation applicable to commercial vessels does not mandate the wearing of a lifejacket
unless there is an emergency or risk of entering the water, and accordingly applying the
commercial standard would not result in a blanket requirement to wear a lifejacket or
buoyancy aid. Therefore, the RYA remains of the opinion that the need to wear a lifejacket of
buoyancy aid ona pleasure vessel is best communicated via education and training rather than
legislation.

4) Use of Support Boats
The RYA is concerned by any adverse perceptions around particular boating activities.
Accordingly, the RYA will be talking to a range of event Organising Authorities to gather
evidence around the use of support boats to establish if the perception around a poor culture
associated with support boats is accurate, and if so, what steps are proportionate address this.

The RYA acknowledges that events held in public waters often see a number of boats in the
vicinity of the event, but notes that these may be spectator boats or general water users and
may not fall within the definition of support boat, or indeed, be part of the event. The RYA
wishes to encourage the safety of all water users, and therefore imposing requirements on
event Organising Authorities is not felt to be a holistic solution, or indeed effective given an
Organising Authority has no jurisdiction over boats outside of their events. If it is believed that
boats in the vicinity of an event are operating either unsafely or in breach of the existing
definition of pleasure vessel, then this is a matter for the relevant harbour authority and not
the Organising Authority.

The Racing Rules of Sailing (as set by World Sailing) provide that an Organising Authority
should issue a Notice of Race and go on to detail what an Event Organiser should include in
that Notice of Race. Accordingly, it is for each Organising Authority to determine what is
appropriate for its own event, and the RYA is unable to mandate particular provisions.

RYA House

Ensign Way, Hamble
Southampton, SO31 4YA
United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0)23 8060 4100
www.rya.org.uk

However, while an Organising Authority may decide to include provisions around the use of
support boats during the event, (for example stating that support boats should not interfere
with racing or should be used in a certain way) an Organising Authority has no jurisdiction to
impose rules on participants (or support boats) after the event has ended, and it would not be
appropriate for an Organising Authority to detail how participants should travel to and from
an event after racing, or from an event after prizegiving has concluded, even if they choose to
travel by boat rather than car.

There appears to be some confusion regarding the purpose of a risk statement in the template
Notice of Race. A risk statement is not intended to impose additional rules on competitors or
to remind competitors of their legal obligations, but to draw the specific risks of participating
in the event to the attention of participants for the purposes of managing the Organising
Authorities' liability, given that exclusion of liability clauses are generally ineffective.
Therefore, if an Organising Authority wants to include specific provisions around the use of
support boats (so far as it relates to the operation of support boats within the bounds of the
event) then this should be done within the general sections of the Notice of Race, and not
within the risk statement.

While the RYA does not believe it appropriate for an Organising Authority to be required to
influence the behaviour of boats in the vicinity of an event, such as boats unconnected with
the event or boats used after hours or after the event has finished, the RYA is actively
encouraging all Organising Authorities to have safety management systems in place for their
activities. A safety management system should include consideration of applicable risks and
detail the steps taken to minimise the risks identified. This will vary by event; however, the RYA
is aware that some Organising Authorities of events in coastal areas have already considered
laying on water taxies between venues or to return crews to competing yachts and therefore
reduce the need for private boats to be used for transferring people. While this would not be
a solution for every event, encouraging Organising Authorities to put in place measures
tailored to their specific event is believed a more pragmatic solution than attempting to
introduce blanket requirements.

Powers to take action

As set out above, the RYA is not a regulator, and accordingly is unable to take direct action either in
respect of general recreational boating or under the Racing Rules of Sailing to impose the changes
suggested. However, the RYA has the ability to offer advice and guidance and will continue to take
steps to highlight the importance of behaving responsibly on the water, together with encouraging
Organising Authorities to explore event specific opportunities to promote safety afloat.

RYA House

Ensign Way, Hamble
Southampton, SO31 4YA
United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0)23 8060 4100
www.rya.org.uk

Conclusion

To conclude, the RYA strives for safety afloat, and recognises the coroner's concerns, however the RYA
believes it appropriate to maintain a distinction between the requirements for commercial vessels and
the requirements for pleasure vessels, and highlights that changing the current definition is likely to
result in uncertainty and lead to disproportionate consequences.

The RYA believes the existing legislative regime provides appropriate tools to address the current
concerns, and notes that a successful prosecution was brought under current legislation. Indeed, given
that existing legislation was ignored immediately prior to the accident it cannot be said that
introducing additional legislation would have resulted in a different outcome, and accordingly the RYA
suggests that continued publicity and education remains a more powerful solution than increased
legislation.

The RYA does not believe that event Organising Authorities are best placed to tackle inappropriate
vessel use within the vicinity of their events and believes the purpose of the risk statement within the
Notice of Race has been misunderstood. However, the RYA will be working with Organising Authorities
to both establish if there are any specific trends around support boats, and to support Organising
Authorities in best managing the risks associated with their particular events.

In its commitment to safe and responsible boating, the RYA will of course be continuing to raise
awareness of the need for responsible behaviour to both its members and to Organising Authorities,
as well as the wider boating community.

Please do not hesitate to contact me should you require further clarification.

Yours sincerely,

Head of Legal
Royal Yachting Association

The report

Responses

Related reports

Other reports by Rachael Griffin

More reports categorised “Other related deaths”

Track Rachael Griffin