We got to the top mark in the top five and now the race will get sorted out on the first run.

The first run in a windward leeward race is usually the most important for positioning because the class is in close proximity. The boat that can gain a boat length or two and sail a little lower will have a big advantage when ahead or behind. Most spinnakers today are designed to work in a particular wind range and if trimmed properly should perform well. The keys to a good spinnaker are:

• Light Air ( 0-10 )
• Very light material
• Easy to fly, stable (not jumpy)
• Vertically straight
• Smaller upper girth
• Open leech area in head
• Moderate Air
• Light Material
• Easy to fly, stable yet not stretchy
• Maximum projected area, full size
• Leech and luff match
• Heavy Air
• Strong Material
• Easy to fly, very stable, strong
• Full Size, maximum projected area
• The material today is very light in weight yet will vary in stability. The choice in material will be based on the following questions:
  • Do I sail in chop and in an area where the wind speed varies? (need a softer to the feel material)
  • Is my boat very efficient and will take a puff and quickly generate boat speed? (firmer to the feel)
  • Is this sail used in only light air?
  • Is this sail used in med to heavy air?
  • Is this sail used in only heavy air?

The design of the sail will be based on:
1) Targets for your boat
2) True wind angle for the wind speed
3) The number of spinnakers your class allows
4) The number of spinnakers you can buy
A good spinnaker should help you either hold your position or gain on the boats ahead. This sail should be easy to fly and will allow the trimmer to trim the sail with a two panel curl with out collapse. Help your sail maker by supplying enough information about your boat, your crew and the conditions you race in to make the perfect spinnaker.

Happy Holidays,

Wally Cross