Rules & Tactics - Online Class
Dave Perry
Thu February 26th & Tue March 3rd, 2026
4:30 PM PT / 7:30 PM ET
79

RULES & TACTICS
AROUND THE RACE COURSE

with Dave Perry

The racing rules turn sailing into a game of strategy. Learn how to use them confidently at the start and around the marks, with one of the sport’s most respected rules experts guiding the way.

2 x 90-Minute Live Session
On Demand Replay Available
Live Q&A

Whether you race every weekend or only a few times a season, the Racing Rules of Sailing shape every decision you make on the course. Understanding not just the rules, but how and when to apply them, is what separates reactive sailors from confident, strategic racers. This online class focuses on the moments where rules matter most and tensions run high.

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RULES & TACTICS

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ONLINE COURSE OVERVIEW

In this engaging online class, Dave Perry breaks down the most important racing rules and tactics in clear, real-world terms. Session 1 focuses on the starting line, where positioning, timing, and right-of-way decisions can make or break your race before it even begins. Session 2 moves to the windward and leeward marks, where tight boat handling and smart rule application often decide the outcome.

This is not a lecture. Dave encourages questions throughout both sessions, using discussion and examples to make the rules intuitive, memorable, and usable on the water.

Who is this online class for?

This online class is for sailors who already race or are starting to race and want to feel more confident in close-quarters situations. It’s ideal for club racers, one-design sailors, and anyone who finds themselves unsure at starts or mark roundings. Race officials and coaches will also benefit from Dave’s clear explanations and practical approach.

What Will I Learn?

Sailors can expect to gain a working understanding of the rules that most often come into play during a race. You’ll learn how to anticipate situations before they develop, protect your position legally, and avoid costly mistakes. The goal is to help you sail more assertively, with fewer surprises and better results.

List of Topics:

  • Key right-of-way rules every racer must know
  • Starting line tactics and common rule traps
  • How rules apply when boats meet at the windward mark
  • Leeward mark situations and overlap decisions
  • Protesting basics and understanding penalties
  • Tactical decision-making under pressure

MASTERING THE GAME ON THE RACE COURSE

From Uncertainty to Smart, Confident Decisions

The Racing Rules of Sailing don’t just govern competition—they define the strategy, flow, and outcome of every race. Starts, mark roundings, and close-quarters situations are where races are won or lost, often in seconds. This live, interactive online class removes the confusion around the rules by showing you how to apply them with confidence in the moments that matter most. Guided by one of the world’s leading rules experts, you’ll learn to anticipate situations, make decisive moves, and race with clarity instead of hesitation.

Smarter Racing Through Rules and Tactics

This online class goes beyond memorizing rules and focuses on how they actually work on the water. Dave Perry breaks down common scenarios at the starting line and around the windward and leeward marks, explaining not just what the rules say, but how to use them to your advantage. Through real-world examples and open discussion, you’ll learn to recognize right-of-way situations early, avoid costly traps, and protect your position legally under pressure. The interactive format encourages questions, helping turn complex rules into intuitive, practical tools you can use immediately in your next race.

Essential Knowledge for Competitive Sailors

Ideal for sailors who race—or are beginning to race—this class builds confidence in the most intense and tactical parts of the course. Club racers, one-design sailors, coaches, and race officials alike will benefit from Dave’s clear explanations and proven teaching style. If you’ve ever felt unsure at the start, second-guessed yourself at a mark rounding, or wished you could race more assertively, this course will give you the understanding, judgment, and confidence to compete smarter, cleaner, and with better results.

YOUR HOST

DAVE PERRY

Dave Perry is known worldwide for his enthusiastic and highly effective teaching style. He is one of sailing’s leading coaches and rules experts, respected by sailors and race officials at every level. Dave serves on the US Sailing Appeals Committee and was the Rules Advisor for the US Sailing Team at the 2024 Olympics.

He is the author of Understanding the Racing Rules of Sailing through 2028, Dave Perry’s 100 Best Racing Rules Quizzes, and the best-selling Winning in One-Designs. His ability to turn complex rules into clear, practical guidance has helped thousands of sailors race smarter and with more confidence.

Dave Perry

ONLINE CLASS REGISTRATION

THURSDAY,  FEBRUARY 26th
TUesday, March 3rd
@ 4:30 PM PT / 7:30 PM ET (2X90 min)
Regular Price

$79

ASA Member Price

$59

ON-DEMAND ACCESS

All registrations include unlimited on-demand access to the recordings of the live online class. So if you are unable to attend live you can still register and watch at your leisure.

ASA MEMBER DISCOUNT

American Sailing Members can claim their discount in the Member Portal. If you're not a current member then for only $59/year you can join or renew today!

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