The start line will usually be laid at right angles to the wind, often between a committee boat and a small buoy. The race officer will display flags or coloured boards and make sound signals to indicate the course and the countdown to the start. Unless the sailing instructions specify otherwise there will be a warning signal five minutes before the start, followed by a preparatory signal at four minutes to go, a one-minute signal, and the starting signal.
For your first few races don’t worry if you are left behind by the rest of the fleet – it will take you a little while to understand how to start on time and how to sail at maximum speed. The start and the first leg are of crucial importance. If you get