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Before they even cross
the line the two boats engage in a tense, tactical dog fight
known as the pre-start.
Complicated strategy is
involved as they jockey for the best position to hit the
race track at speed, on their preferred side of the course
and right on the gun.
If one boat can force
the other into a penalty for infringing one of sailing's
myriad rights of way rules, all the better.
Nerves of steel and
consummate boat handling skills are required and it is not
uncommon for specialist starting helmsmen to hand over the
role once over the line.
They can enter the
starting box any time after the five-minute gun and no later
than three minutes before the start.
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