Start Line Protocol

You can see from the start line protocol that this is serious stuff. Good to have US and Canadian CG escorts. Lots of VIP boats, spectators etc.

Marblehead-to-Halifax Ocean Race Starting Area Protocol

The US Coast Guard will be represented by a vessel to be determined which will be stationed approximately 600 yards, 150 deg. magnetic from Tinkers Rock Gong Buoy. There will also be additional Coast Guard Vessels TBD monitoring operations. The U.S. Coast Guard has final authority and control of the area. The Coast Guard Auxiliary vessels are under CG command and can be identified by their blue and white ensign. They must be obeyed under all circumstances. Other boats should refer questions and problems to the Race Committee Signal Boat, Carl Alberg.

Canadian Forces.
A Canadian Forces vessel to be determined will represent the Canadian Forces and will be located at the Southeast end of the Starting Line, approximately 0.70 nautical miles (NM), and 150 deg magnetic from Tinkers Rock Gong Buoy.

Race Committee (RC) Vessels
The Race Committee is responsible for layout of the racing area and proper conduct of the start of the race. Race Committee requests must be respected by privileged vessels, spectators and racing competitors.

Boston Yacht Club Signal Boat; Carl A. Alberg Stationed at the signal end of the starting line, approximately 0.60 NM and 150 deg magnetic from Tinkers Rock Gong Buoy. Controls Race Committee operations in the starting area Flies the Race Committee flag, blue field with Red or Black anchor and the letters “RC” and an orange line flag. Communications central for race operations