I tacked inside the zone at the windward mark and got trapped — how is it my foul?
Because once you pass head to wind inside the zone with a starboard boat fetching the mark, every line you sail is a losing one. Under Rule 18.3 you must give mark-room to the boat that was fetching, and as windward boat you must keep clear under Rule 11 — you did neither, so you're disqualified. The boat forced onto the mark is exonerated under Rule 43.1(b). The mistake isn't the luff — it's the tack. (World Sailing Case 95.)
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yoEziUerfLs" title="Sailing Kiwi" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<p><a href="https://sailing.kiwi.nz/v/yoEziUerfLs/">Source: Sailing Kiwi</a></p>Recommended reading
- The Rules in Practice 2025-2028 by Bryan Willis — The clearest guide to the racing rules around the racecourse — updated for the current 2025-2028 rulebook.
- Advanced Racing Tactics by Stuart H. Walker — The classic deep-dive on racing tactics — starting, beating, reaching and mark rounding.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.