Are any kinds of certifications or licenses required to participate in the auto racing you describe? I think that this may be the deliniation between auto and boat racing. There is no requirement of any sailing knowledge or licensure whatsoever.

In theory, I don't even have to know how to swim. So I could walk up, buy or borrow a boat from someone, enter a regatta, duct tape the sail to the mast (cause I don't know how to hoist), float (because I don't know how to sail yet) out to where all the boats are (with no life jacket), and say I'm racing.

I know this because I witnessed it at a Steeplechase a long time ago. Two dudes with little experience and a new-to-them cat entered. They finished (which in some respects is a noteable achievement), but DFL is an overstatement. They definitely didn't know what they bargained for, and if the conditions were anything worse than what they were (I think that was the "easiest" Steeplechase weather I've ever seen) it could have been seriously problematic.

The SIs were clear. But they had none of the equipment, experience, or knowledge outlined. How they got through is a mystery, and I believe the OA did admonish the sailors once it was found out.

Now, hypothetically, if they had suffered injuries as a result of their inexperience, do you think an attorney would have been able to cause a lot of frustration for the PRO/OA? Heck yes. Even if the case was dismissed, the scarring (financially to defend yourself, and emotional) would be deep and long lasting.

Flame me all you want, but I'm merely trying to present this side of the discussion (and I'm probably not doing a good job because I don't really agree with this side).

The OA/PRO is providing a service that I choose to accept. They practically kill themselves to ensure I as a participant have a good time, and I am extremely grateful for that. I think if I screw it all up, it's my fault and obligation to "make it right".