In single wiring conditions
and less, the crew should be in front of the mast and crouched
low to avoid windage. The helm should be balancing the boat
from the wire.
The critical points in a light wind tack
are:
- The crew passes smoothly between the
mast and the jib and moves to sit in the same position
on the opposite side.
- The helm must cross the boat without
being jerky. If possible it should be one smooth movement.
Avoid slowing to hook on.
- Don’t over roll the boat when
you pull it up after the tack. This kills the speed and
makes balance difficult.
- If the top batten doesn’t pop
as you roll it upright then the crew should pull the cunningham
by the mast. This automatically pops the top batten. Don’t
do a second roll attempting to pop it.
Watch the video and note how the helm
hooks on and then swaps hands after the tack to keep the
movement smooth. Also note how quickly helm and crew settle
into their normal sailing positions.
|
