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Racing Rules explained – Rule 12

Rule 12 – Clear ahead/clear astern

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

This rule comes into play quite a lot in our racing, with twilights, winter series and the Rolex Sydney Hobart start lines a buzz of different boats. It is important for us to keep our distance when overtaking, remembering the manoeuvrability of other yachts when this rule comes into play. It is also important to think of the bigger picture when overtaking. Whilst going to windward will give you clear air, once you become overlapped, the rules change to the Rule 11, and you could be luffed. Generally, if you are overtaking, you are the larger, faster yacht of the two, so going to leeward might be the better option.

Quick Tip: When you are on a crowded start line with different boats, try and pick a spot with fewer boats in close proximity and try to stay to windward (2-3 lengths if you can get it!) of a bigger boat. This way, they should speed off down to leeward of you and provide a nice gap to the next boat.

Click here to view the full Racing Rules Explained series.

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