Paul Elvstrom Explains the Racing Rules of Sailing

Adlard Coles Nautical 1997; 208pp; linedrawings; £11.99;

Paul Elvstrom, that master Olympic racing helmsman, has, in this new edition of his book, yet again penetrated the arcane “gobbledegook” of the Racing Rules of Sailing. He thoroughly explains the inticacies, implications and applications of them , even for a cruising yachtsman. His task has been partly helped by a general simplification of the 1997-2000 rules regarding definitions of “overlap”, “proper course” and “tacking”.

The book is user-friendly with excellent quick reference aide-memoires using colour coding which relates to “on water” situations with explanatory diagrams supplemented by interpretative text. It is a neat little book 6”x 4” in a waterproof case and contains a set of model yachts for illustrating situations in protest meetings, which can also be used on an overhead projector. There are ample appendices covering protocols for racing organisation, protests and flag signals making this the definitive work for all established and aspiring race officers. CM