[quote=maritimesailorWhile I have your attention, whoever it is out there who thinks you can back up to the line when called over early, you have NO rights when doing so, please don't do this unless you are not in anyone's way (which, if you were over early, is highly unlikely). [/quote]

I 100% agree with you on this. HOWEVER.....There was a rules seminar done by the judge at last years F18 North Americans. He was of the opinion that you could back up with rights (His rational was that if you went head to wind without tacking, then you were still on startboard tack, and that boats behind you are technically overtaking you......so, you had rights). If there are more judges out there with that opinion, then it could get intersting in the room!