Umpires' area
In order to assist the competitors and other interested parties with the 2009 rule changes from ISAF and how these are reflected in umpire calls during team racing, we have posted here the most recent 2009 ISAF team-racing Rapid Response calls. Since most sailors are interested in how the revised rule 18 (room at a mark) and new definition of mark-room will work, as well as their relation to the new rule 19 (room at an obstruction), we have also posted some of the most relevant recent ISAF rules Q&As. Although developed for fleet racing, they apply as well for team racing.
Finally, it is worth noting that, in the ISAF Team Racing Call Book, it is calls B6, B8, D10, E2, E5, E8, F2, H1 and J7 that have had the most significant changes to their text in the light of the revised rules for 2009. Competitors should also be aware that there are new calls J6, J7, L6, M7 and M8, and, of course, we hope that you will note with a sigh of relief the disappearance of the old call E9!
It is hoped you will as always be able to ask an Umpire for clarification of any rules issues about which you are unsure.
Downloads of immediate interest:
Rule 17 - On the same tack, proper course; RRC 2009/2
Rule 18 - Mark room; RRC 2009/1, RRC 2009/3, RRC 2009/4 and RRC 2009/5; ISAF Q&A 2009017, 022, 024 and 025
Rule 19 - Room to pass an obstruction ISAF Q&A 2009021 and 024
The main authority is, of course, ISAF: The basic rule book (with highlighted changes) , the team racing call book and Q&As (these are Q&As on all the rules, not just those directly related to team racing).