Welcome Sailors

Race start sequences and racing courses

A bit of Trivia Where do the words Port and Starboard originate from? In times of old ships were steered by a Steering board mounted on the right side

of the ship, from this we get Starboard. Consequently the ship could not be berthed on this side, so the left side of the ship became the port side.

5 Minutes, one hoot Class flag up

4 Minutes, one hoot P, Z, I or Black flag up

1 Minute, one hoot P flag down

0 minute Start one hoot Class flag Down

Typical Race Start Sequence

Hints for starting

• Always look for the flags sound is delayed• Always check the SI’s for changes to starting.• General recalls are often signaled from a rescue boat• Buy a flags sticker for your boat• Never assume check the flag• Racing at Cowes check for the smoke• Get into position to see the raising of the flag before

prestart• If you miss the first signal use the second• Carry a count down device on board.

What is this signal and which

photo do you think it relates

too?

Windward Leeward Course

Windward leeward with offset markBasic windward leeward course

Trapezoid Course

Ok Interdominions Easter course Triangle, Windward return course