PHRF Fleet Starting Sequence
​Rabbit Start

• If the Race Committee decides to use the Rabbit Start racers must be notified prior to the beginning of the race.
• Equipment required: Whistle, 1 (optional mark), powerboat serving as RC boat.
• Goal/Focus: To create an even start for all competitors
• Rabbit Start Sequence: In a Rabbit Start, one competing boat serves as the Rabbit to start the fleet. Although either tack may be used, it is recommended that the “Rabbit” be on starboard tack and the remainder of the racing boats on port tack for the start. If using for Lasers, the three (3) minute starting sequence should be used, while the Townies & PHRF fleets use the five (5) minute sequence. The signals are made by the “Rabbit” and will be sound signals only, unless the RC boat chooses to otherwise. 
• The “Rabbit” will maneuver to pass by the “Pin” close hauled and to leeward. The “Rabbit” signals the start of the race with one (1) sound signal and the starting line becomes the line between the “Rabbit” and the “Pin.”
• All competitors will start the race on the opposite tack as the “Rabbit” and sail between the “Pin” and the “Rabbit” passing behind (crossing the “Rabbit’s” wake) the “Rabbit.” When all starters have passed behind the “Rabbit” all including the “Rabbit” are free to tack.
• Note: All competitors MUST stay on the lee side of the “Pin” and the “Rabbit” prior to the start.
• The finish line if not RC boat is an imaginary line extending 50’ from the “Pin” as viewed on the final leg, and perpendicular to the course from the previous mark. 

​Starting Sequence PHRF Fleet Rabbit Start
Race Committee Handbook
Bob Cusack - Revised September 4, 2017 ​