After reading the headboard discussion, I'm wondering if there is a literal interpretation that makes the existing rules ok as is. The rule as written specifically calls out the headboard and says nothing about the sail. Maybe that's the way it was intended!

Paragraph 5.12.2.4 rules - existing
5.12.2.4 The width of the headboard measured at right angles to the mast shall not exceed 158 mm.

The interpretation being the measurement is strictly for the headboard itself and not the sail cloth, luff tape or slugs. I don't think people can "game the system" by having more sail cloth at the top with a headboard that is 158mm max.

What if the following rule interpretation was added:
Paragraph 5.12.2.4 rules - proposed
5.12.2.4 The width of the headboard measured at right angles to the mast shall not exceed 158 mm.
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It is intended that the dimension at the head of the sail measured perpendicular to the mast be generally controlled by the maximum specified size of the headboard insert. This measurement excludes variability due to any extension provided by luff tape, track slugs or minor additions of sail cloth around the perimeter of the headboard for finishing.
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