A lot of ground can be made or lost
with a good hoist. A few seconds quicker on filling the
kite can make a number of boat lengths as the boat leaps
onto the plane.
As you approach the mark the kicker and
cunningham need to be released so they are set for the downwind.
Keep the boat flat or slightly over to
windward as you bear away. Also move back as the boat accelerates
to stop the nose going down. If it’s wavy or windy
the helm should get his back foot into the footstrap to
keep himself steady.
Make sure you really ease the main and
jib as you bear off.
The helm stays on the wire and keeps the
boat steady while the crew jumps in, hoists the kite, fills
it and jumps back out on the wire. It’s important
the helm steers very deep for a quick hoist and to make
the crew’s life easier.
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