Rule 26: Starting Races

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
5*	Class flag	One	Warning signal
4	P, I, Z, Z with I, U, or black flag	One	Preparatory signal
1	Preparatory flag removed	One long	One-minute
0	Class flag removed	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.

Definitions in Context

Race

A race is a sailing competition that is held under these rules and is conducted by a host organization according to the sailing instructions.

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.

Related Cases

Case 31

When the correct visual recall signal for individual recall is made but the required sound signal is not, and when a recalled boat in a position to hear a sound signal does not see the visual signal and does not return, she is entitled to redress. However, if she realizes she is on the course side of the line she must return and start correctly.