Hearing Decision

The 420 fleet was sailing in 20-25 knots in choppy seas

Prior to the start 55245 established an overlap to leeward of 56916 approximately 1 boat lengths apart

56916 was above close hauled near the start line

While the boat remained overlapped 56916 drifted towards 55245

Approximately 15 seconds after the overlap was established 56916's port forward quarter collided with the starboard side stay of 55245 with no damage or injury

56916 to windward failed to keep clear of 55245 to leeward as required by rule 11.

Although it was reasonably possible for her to do it, 55245, the right-of-way boat did not avoid contact with 56916 when it was clear that 56916 was not keeping clear, she is exonerated as the contact did not cause damage or injury. 

It was reasonably possible for 56916 to avoid contact with 55245 and she failed to do so, breaking rule 14.

56916 is disqualified from race 2