J/30 Class Association Forums J/30 Forum Racing Tools and Techniques Spinnaker Launching from Forward Hatch?

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?