As I read Rule 5.4.2.1
5.4.2.1 Thru-deck running or standing rigging controls or thru-deck spinnaker launchers.
This prohibits the launching the spinnaker from the forward hatch, am I mistaken or has there been an addendum to the rule.
Neil

Neil,

That is intended to prevent somebody from modifying the boat to include additional holes with through the deck controls (e.g. my J/109 has the sprit pole control that is lead from the bow to aft of the companionway in a tube that runs through the inside of the boat). There is no intention to prevent people from using the companionway or forward hatch to launch or retrieve the spinnaker.

I understand that you are interpreting the rule, but the last phrase of the rule is explicit, "thru-deck spinnaker launchers."


Rule 5.4.2.1
5.4.2.1 Thru-deck running or standing rigging controls or thru-deck spinnaker launchers.
This prohibits the launching the spinnaker from the forward hatch, am I mistaken or has there been an addendum to the rule.

I hate to be a stickler for the rules, but are they there for a reason, or should we amend the rule?

If you feel strongly enough about a change, contact you district governor and provide proposed wording to be brought before the board of governors. I personally don't think there is a problem with the rules as written.

J-World teaches launching the spinnaker from the companionway hatch - similar to the forward hatch. By your interpretation, that is also a thru-deck spinnaker launcher.