- Cowling
Rule: It Just Won't Go Away
- by Don Mock
- At the Ellensburg meeting we had another
in a long list of discussions about the "loss of cowl"
rule. We apparently had a few problems last season with either
missed or wrong calls. Although we had some proposed modifications
to the rule, it was voted to leave it as is. The problem stems
most likely from the fact that many members have not read or
understand the rule. Please read it. And if you plan on being
a turn judge or CD, read it twice. Just remember, the reason
for the rule is to encourage people to keep cowls and other major
parts on their boat. These floating pieces can be real hazards
on the race course. They are often very hard to see and avoid.
I'm on the list as one who has stuffed in a final heat after
hitting an impossible to see floating wing.
-
- The best solution, improve our mounting
methods for holding down cowls, fake engines and wings. Make
sure your parts can withstand a roostertail hit, or rough water
without separating from the boat.
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- I understand the dilemma of trying
to make your cowl quick and easy to attach and remove, and, stay
on the boat under rough racing conditions. Most of us use nylon
bolts to mount wings and other parts so they will sheer off keeping
damage to a minimum. Often these parts come off too easily and
end up floating in the path of an oncoming boat.
- .