Team Race - CALL J 01  

Rule11 On the Same Tack, Overlapped
Rule 18.1 Rounding and Passing Marks and Obstructions: When this Rule Applies
Rule 18.2(a) Rounding and Passing Marks and Obstructions: Giving Room; Keeping Clear. Overlapped – Basic Rule

Question
A and X are overlapped, broad reaching on port tack towards a leeward mark which is to be left to port. A has no proper course restriction, and is steering a course approximately 1½ lengths to windward of the mark. A maintains her course until she is 1½ lengths from the mark, then gybes to give X room. X protests. What should the call be?

Answer
Rule 18 starts to apply when boats are about to round the mark. This is at the latest when A reaches the two length zone. From that moment A must sail a course to give X room at the mark. By maintaining her course to position 2, A breaks rule 18.2(a). Penalize A.
It is not significant whether or not X hails for room.

A boat required to give room at a mark or obstruction is required to give room from the time that rule 18 starts to apply.