Dave Perry Interview Summary
Major Rule Changes for 2025-2028
Perry breaks down the most significant updates to the racing rules taking effect January 1st:
The "Slam Dunk" Modification: The biggest game-changer affects a maneuver used in match racing and team racing. Previously, if a port-tack boat could get an overlap before a starboard boat finished tacking, port could luff above close-hauled...Dave Perry Interview Summary
Major Rule Changes for 2025-2028
Perry breaks down the most significant updates to the racing rules taking effect January 1st:
The "Slam Dunk" Modification: The biggest game-changer affects a maneuver used in match racing and team racing. Previously, if a port-tack boat could get an overlap before a starboard boat finished tacking, port could luff above close-hauled. Now, the moment starboard passes head-to-wind, if port isn't overlapped, port must stay at close-hauled. This makes the slam dunk more effective but creates split-second judgment calls for umpires.
Windward Mark Changes: When two boats enter the windward mark zone on port tack and one tacks to starboard, the other boat is no longer entitled to mark room if they tack in the zone - designed to discourage risky port-tack approaches.
Communication Requirements: Sailors requesting room to tack must now specifically use the phrase "room to tack" rather than informal calls.
Collision Prevention: Rule 14 now prohibits causing contact between another boat and a third boat or fixed object, aimed at reducing damage.
The Rules-Making Process
Perry explains how sailing's international rule book evolves through a careful four-year cycle. Country rules committees submit ideas to World Sailing by August 1st each year. After public comment, the World Sailing Racing Rules Committee makes final decisions and publishes new rules on July 1st before implementation, allowing time for translation and familiarization.
"Winning in One Design" Legacy
Perry's classic book began as monthly columns in Yacht Racing Magazine from 1978-1982, written while training for two Olympics. Each chapter was "people tested" at racing clinics nationwide. Recent Olympic sailors praise it as essential reading, with eight-time Laser world champion Robert Scheidt calling it "the best book on tactics."
Match Racing Passion
For Perry, match racing represents "the ultimate tactics" - pure sailboat racing where equipment advantages are minimized. He describes it as 15 minutes of intense competition that forces continuous improvement and serves as excellent cross-training for fleet racing.
Youth Development: The Rose Cup
The US Sailing Youth Match Racing Championship emerged from Andy Rose and Balboa Yacht Club's efforts to develop American talent. After proving its value for three years, it became an official championship, serving as a crucial bridge from dinghy to keelboat sailing for 16-18 year olds.
Vision for Sailing's Future
Perry's biggest concern is sailing's limited adult education opportunities compared to golf and tennis. He advocates investing in coaching over equipment upgrades, noting that improved skills provide far better returns than marginal gear advantages. His vision includes more systematic adult education to help sailors improve and stay engaged. Show more - at USA

American Sailor: Bonus Episode w/ Dave Perry...

In this exclusive audio-only episode, host Janel Martin sits down with legendary sailing expert, coach, and author Dave Perry. They dive into the latest 2025 racing rule changes, share memorable life stories, and explore what’s on the horizon for the future of sailing. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or new to the sport, this conversation is packed with insight, inspiration, and a few laughs...