I am in the market for a new sail this year. I had a debate with myself and my sailmaker about which sail I should buy and main or a 150%. After reviewing the sail he suggested a new 150% and some work on the main. The work he suggested was to make the 2nd batten full length. We checked the rules and this would be illegal:

"The length of the upper batten is not restricted, and shall be located a minimum of 5 feet 8-3/8 inches from the top back edge of the headboard down the leech to the bottom of the batten. The two middle battens shall be no longer than 3 feet 6-1/2 inch."

It seems as though the intent of most of the sail rules are minimize expense. But this rule seems to have cost me $, as I now will be buying a new main. Can someone please explain to me the intent of this particular rule? Thanks Scott