I just returned last month from the Hobie 16 Worlds in Fiji. We had an on-the-water judge who would race up and down the course so he could be at both the weather mark and leeward gate. Having "the eye" watching made a large, but subtle difference, I think.

I fouled everyone and everything on every race at that friggin' gate (or so it seemed). I would have done my turns without the judge there, but after each infraction I thought about him being there. I think having someone on the water -- even if they don't see it -- will help to keep the dishonest ones more honest. Even though the judge may not see the infraction, the sailor doesn't necessarily know it!

Side note: We came into the gate in one race in 3rd and, yep, fouled a guy coming out. I went about 10 boat lengths before peeling off and doing my circle. Came back and was able to finish 3rd in the race (amazingly!).

Afterwards, the judge approached me and after a few tense moments (on my part), told me he wasn't going to press the issue, but that I did my penalty too late! I knew I had pushed the envelope. I didn't want to do a down speed circle, so I waited to get my speed up before peeling off. But I was really surprised he approached me about it. It wasn't like I waited 1/2 a leg before doing it!

In another "gate" incident I managed to screw up, I fouled a fellow American competitor. He asked for a 'circle' (as opposed to saying 'protest'.) Even though I didn't cost him any places, I knew I was wrong, and did the turn.

I believe doing the penalties makes me a better sailor. I will remember the pain of that penalty -- and what I need to do to avoid another one -- next time that situation occurs. It also builds character, which is way under-rated in this society in my opinion.