[Rhodes22-list] Sailing Technique Question

[Tatflies at cs.com]

Flat is fast... I will admit little experience on the R22, however these 
techniques have worked for me on many other boats.

If fast is your goal, try to keep the boat flat. When not steering a 
particular course, set the headsail (smaller early, then bring more out as needed) and 
steer to the tell-tails. The main can be dumped if a gust hits while still 
maintaining a trimmed headsail and as a result not losing much speed. If you are 
generally overpowered (i.e. without gusts) reduce all sail area. A an evenly 
balanced rig will also help with rudder control. Burying the rail may be fun 
for some, it is never fast.

Rummy is also very right about lowering the center of effort on the main when 
the winds dictate.

Many hours of racing and cruising have taught me to respect Mother Nature. If 
simply enjoying an afternoon sail, there is no reason to test the limits of 
the equipment. Simply reduce the sail area and head up if needed. The loss of a 
headstay reported on a recent post reminds me of accidents that did not end 
so favorably. We should never forget that this simple sport can be dangerous 
and should not be treated lightly when (not if) foul weather arrives.

Tom Trenkle