Before the start sequence a quick series of short sounds are made so you know it is about to begin. For the start sequence, any time a flag goes up or down, a horn also sounds. The Class Flags can be any solid colored flag that identifies a group starting together, i.e. Open Fleet might be green or pink , whatever they say at the skipper's meeting. The 'P' Flag is navy with a white square in the middle.

At five minutes before the start the Class Flag goes up.
At four minutes before the start, the 'P' Flag goes up .
At one minute before the start the 'P' Flag comes down.
At the start the Class Flag comes down.

I wear a watch with a timer and simply start it when the Class Flag goes up. If I miss that, I just wait for the next flag/horn.

nm

Based on results, you have to discount anything from n.m. The oft used expression to describe the last place finisher is "DFL" (dead f'ing last). In my case DFLWB (way back). I'm selling all my stuff.

nm

Another question. Can you change sails between races if the wind changes? (Assuming you don't go bigger than max size)

NM, can I have all your stuff??? anyone who has not been DFLWB is lying or never raced

I didnt race the last race either, but thats another story...

Randy, yes you can change sails anytime during a series of races as long as you do not go larger than the limit for your class. It is always a good idea to sail by the comittee boat after a change to let them know, especially if the number on the sail is different.

I usually will tell the comittee I am going in to change a sail before heading back just in case i miss the next start they already know.