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Dick was never accused of not telling
us his opinion!
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Guy's, we did very well last weekend. As I looked over
everything that we did, I could see improvements all over the place. Yes, we could have done better - but we are still building our experience base. We are getting ready to trophy. It looks like the Genoa halyard belongs on the check list and checking the pole hookup to the shroud, before we do a tack. I'm not sure if that is when we were having the trouble with the halyard being fouled. You can see what a problem can be created by a boat constantly tacking on us. You either need to go off and hide, become more proficient at tacking, or get lucky and find a header that allows you to cross them on the next tack. We are not ready to get into a tacking duel - there are a combination of things we need to do better. I know that it is tough, but when I say ready to tack, it means that everyone is still hiking, but you have rotated so that you can move. If we start moving across before the tack, two things happen: first, I need to use more rudder to get around (putting on the brakes); and secondly, I will be going slower on the other side of the tack, and need more time to accelerate and will increase the slippage due to a lack of speed. So, what all of that says is we just need to be a little tighter on the timing. If I need to give more warning so that you can be better positioned to hold the hike better and move a little quicker, or if I should be giving a countdown, then I need to know. Also, the skirting can't be missed. It all needs to be perfect, if we are to win a tacking duel. I have ordered a new jib. Don't know the delivery date as yet - requested prior to June 13. Considering Sunday morning for the next practice. We will go over sail setup, and more trimming. There was a lot of conversation with the trimmer from Mr. Happy - what did you get from that discussion that we can do to improve our performance. For the amount of time spent, he should have provided a great deal of information. |
