Page 63 - Race

10.7 Rule 42 Management

The Flags 'O' and 'R' Rule
The following rules (RRS Appendix P5) shall apply if the SIs so state:

(a) If the class rules permit pumping,
rocking and ooching when the wind
speed exceeds a specified limit, the
race committee may signal that those
actions are permitted, as specified in the
class rules, by displaying flag ‘O’ before
or with the warning signal. The flag will
be removed at the starting signal.
(b) If the wind speed exceeds the specified
limit after the starting signal, the race
committee may display flag ‘O’ with
repetitive sounds at a rounding mark to
signal that the actions are permitted, as
specified in the class rules, to a boat
after she has passed the mark.
(c) If the wind speed becomes less than the specified limit after flag ‘O’ was displayed, the race
committee may display flag ‘R’ with repetitive sounds at a rounding mark to signal that rule 42,
as changed by the class rules, applies to a boat after she has passed the mark.

Only certain classes allow this system to operate. The wind speed at which this rule is switched off
or on is very important and defined in the class rules. This can be very critical if two classes using
the same course area require different wind speeds. ROs are advised to argue strongly in favour
classes using this system to race on different course areas or to establish a wind speed that is
acceptable to both classes.

The Race Committee has sole responsibility for implementing the system. The information on wind
speed and direction that is provided by the mark laying boats at each mark must continue to flow to
the RO throughout the race so that he/she is aware of wind speeds across the entire course.

To avoid constantly turning off and restoring rule 42 the race committee should be certain that the
increase or decrease in wind speed is going to remain constant over the course area. The wind
speed should be consistently above or below the limiting speed before any change is implemented.
If there is any doubt that the wind speed is not reliable and that it will consistently be flickering around
the designated wind speed then do not make a change.

It is at this stage that consultation with the umpires is vital to the success of this system. Umpires on
the water have to monitor this rule very carefully, therefore if it is a marginal decision that has to be
made ask them for their opinion.

It is essential that umpire boats are kept fully informed at all times of the race committee's intentions
and actions. To avoid confusion the RO should use the following terms when informing the umpires
of changes concerning Rule 42 management; "Negative Oscar" or "Oscar displayed" at the warning
signal; "Oscar displayed" or "Romeo displayed" during the race.

The position of the boat that signals 'O' or 'R' follows the same principles as those for signalling a
change of course.

Version March 2018 61