The Z flag
The situation
After two general recalls the committee flies the Z flag for the next start. In the last minute Pip is just over the line, inside the triangle between the line and the first mark.
The question
What does the Z flag cost her, and how is it different from the I and black flags?
The ruling
The Z flag (rule 30.2) adds a 20% scoring penalty for any boat in the triangle during the last minute before the start — even if she dips back and starts cleanly, the 20% sticks. Unlike the I flag she needn't round an end; unlike the black flag she isn't disqualified. If there's another general recall, the penalty carries into the restart. Under a Z flag you start a touch conservatively.
Z flag = a 20% scoring penalty for being over in the last minute. You still start — it just costs you points.
Opens the situation on the boat-length grid — scrub it and see exactly how the boats meet. Free, no account needed.
Rules cited
See the underlying rule: Rule 30 — U / Z / Black Flag — the Triangle.