With Special thanks to Mike Hobson – J Boats, Chesapeake USA. SAILING PRINCIPLES divided into Tactical and Philosophical.
TACTICAL – SAILING PRINCIPLES divided into Tactical and Philosophical.
- Sail on the tack or gybe that points closer to the next mark.
- Sail in clean air.
- Sail toward, and in, the most wind pressure.
- Keep manoeuvres to a minimum.
- Form a game plan where you want to be after the start and first leg. What is your goal?
- Be flexible. Even though you have a game plan, be ready to change.
- A general rule is to be up-current of the rhumb line.
- Cross the pack when you can. Take advantage when you get it.
- Get a clean start; allow yourself the start so you can execute your game plan.
- Avoid the lay lines too early in the leg.
PHILOSOPHICAL – SAILING PRINCIPLES divided into Tactical and Philosophical.
- Go fast, don’t let outside distractions interfere with your boat speed.
- Sail fair, don’t break the rules. Like Elvstrom says.
- Stay out of trouble with competitors. Focus on getting around the course the fastest.
- Relax, and keep it fun.
- Think ahead; be observant of what the fleet is going to do on the next wind shift.
- Don’t panic, be patient, and wait for opportunities to develop.
- Be prepared; have weather, current, and sailing instructions.
- Don’t think too much, rely on your experience.
- Don’t gamble or get greedy.
