The Rules Book –2009-2012

Publisher: Adlard Coles Nautical; £15.99
Publication Date: 2009

The name of Eric Twinane has been associated with the clarification of the racing rules since the 1970s and the first publication of this highly regarded work more than 30 years ago. Before that he had campaigned for some significant changes in the rules relating to penalties that were fully accepted. It was he who encouraged Bryan Willis to develop his interest and who has since been deeply involved in international racing for more than 25 years.

Being so steeped in the minutiae of some arcane material can render some written explanations impossible to comprehend by the less knowledgeable. It is wonderful to see this extensive knowledge translated into prose and diagram that clarify the amazing variety of situations that occur in yacht racing for tyro and old-hand alike.

This new edition explains firstly the new changes that will affect the rule and goes on to interpret all the rules that apply over the next three seasons. The unique way of explaining these sometimes difficult interpretations by taking each race stage in turn is very helpful. Although intended for racers obviously, it is an interesting read for those of us who sit bemused at seeing the occasional class racing on TV, are puzzled by the antics of our brothers and sisters who seem to go out of their way to make a pleasant afternoon’s sail much more uncomfortable, or who are even persuaded into a light-hearted regatta. – Michael Davey