In a sport that is constantly challenged by the image of leisure enthusiast versus hardcore athlete, this is an easy way to start defining our sport. So when you are dragging a keg down to the hoist, try to remember to throw in a couple of sport drinks or sodas, because everyone gets thirsty but not everybody drinks. The current policy is to have umpires make calls only when the protestee does not exonerate himself and the protestor flies yellow flag, asking for judgment. Team racers are experienced and understand the rules. In this manner, competitors govern the majority of conflicts on the water without the aid of umpires.
Umpires are passive.
This takes away the opportunity for sailors to sail by the rules and make their own decisions on the water. Perhaps this style is simpler to follow for a spectator. Most of the crew, recruited from teams taking part in the sixty-foot multihulls circuit, are champing at the bit to experience the wild, exhilarating rollercoaster ride that the maxi cat can provide. This is more a time for fine tuning. The crew must be attentive to the slightest noise or movement of the giant cat that might indicate a minor adjustment to be made or a modification to some part when they return to port.