The Rules in Practice 2021-2024

Synopsis

Rules in Practice has been the best-selling guide to the racing rules for the last 40 years. Now, in its 10th edition, it has been updated for (and contains in full) the 2021-2024 Racing Rules of Sailing and features a brand new chapter on the luffing rules and how they are being applied. The latest rule changes are also described, along with their impact on you as a sailor. With over 20 new scenarios, reflecting the courses we now sail, it is as up-to-date and relevant as the first edition was in 1985. Unlike other rules guides which take you through the rules in order, this book tackles the subject from the sailors' point of view. It takes you around the race course, from start to finish, through the key situations that occur repeatedly showing, from the point of view of each boat in turn, what you may, must, or cannot do. You don't have to know all the rules off by heart, but you do need to know your rights and obligations on the water - the rules can be looked up afterwards. This knowledge will build your confidence while racing and enable you to make the most of opportunities when they arise. Colour diagrams throughout ensure concepts are easily understood. If you are going to buy one rule book - make it this one! For post-publication changes to the rules by World Sailing (most notably of trapeze harness weight - Rule 50.1(b)) please see the World Sailing or Fernhurst Books websites.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Rules in Action

This chapter introduces the core concepts of the Rules of Golf and how they are applied in various situations. Real-world examples are provided to illustrate the rules, such as:

* A player hitting a provisional ball after losing their original ball in a hazard (Rule 27-2)
* A player receiving a penalty for playing from an improper stance (Rule 18-2a)
* A player dropping a ball within a scorecard-designated area (Rule 20-7)

Chapter 2: The Basics of Play

This chapter covers the fundamental rules governing the game, including:

* Teeing off and establishing the starting point (Rule 6)
* Fair play and the penalty for strokes in penalty areas (Rule 17)
* The use of artificial devices and technology (Rule 4)

Example: A player is using a rangefinder to measure the distance to the green. This is permissible under the Rules of Golf.

Chapter 3: Scoring and Penalties

This chapter explains how scores are calculated and the various penalties that can be incurred for rule violations.

* The use of the scorecard and penalty strokes (Rule 6)
* The procedure for scoring out of bounds (Rule 27-1)
* The consequences of disqualification (Rule 33)

Example: A player is disqualified for using an illegal golf ball. Their score for the round is voided.

Chapter 4: The Committees of Golf

This chapter discusses the role and responsibilities of various committees involved in the administration of the game.

* The role of the R&A and USGA (Rule 1)
* The authority of the Committee in Charge (Rule 18-2)
* The use of local rules and qualifying scores (Rule 33)

Example: A local rule may require players to use a specific ball on a particular hole due to safety concerns.

Chapter 5: Definitions

This chapter provides definitions for key terms used throughout the Rules of Golf.

* Definitions of terms such as "hazard," "stroke," and "obstruction" (Rule 3)
* Clarifications on the meaning and intent of the rules
* Guidance for understanding and interpreting the Rules of Golf

Example: The definition of "hazard" includes any bunker, water hazard, or other area marked as such by the Committee.