When entrants face extreme weather

In the 2021-24 Racing Rules of Sailing, Rule 3 states that “The responsibility for a boat’s decision to participate in a race or to continue racing is hers alone.” But while it is easy to stay at the dock for a day race, distance race organizers have gotten involved when entrants may face extreme weather.

The latest event with a formidable forecast is the Three Kings Offshore Race, a 500 nautical mile course in Auckland, New Zealand. Intended to start on April 11, host Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron decided that headwinds up to 30+ knots for the first day and night would not do the race or the competitors any favors.

“We’ve made the call to delay the start to Friday 12th April, with the new start time being 0900 hours,” said General Committee Member and Race Director Scott Wilson. “The safety of our fleet is paramount, so delaying the start should ensure a smooth yet exciting race.” – Full report