John,

In my option I would have been right in front of the F18 after the tack (meaning he would have to tack too or go behind my back -> 1 full boatlength, which seemed difficult to me).
So IMO the F18 would not have had room enough to keep clear. Meaning I couldn't tack.

However I think you're saying the opposite John.

btw we got to the top mark in front of them ;-)

Gill