Look out for the leeward mark/gate early. If there is a gate check the bias before the start of the race and also look out for boats in front of you and which mark they choose.

Try to plan ahead to get the inside position at the mark. This gives you clear air and all options to either stay on the right course side or tacking over to the left side, depending on your plan for the upwind leg. If you cannot get the inside position slow the boat down and go round the mark behind rather than to leeward of the boat ahead of you.

 

When approaching the mark “come in wide and round tight”. Sail on your close-hauled course as your bow passes the mark on its leeward side to avoid losing distance by drifting away and to be at your top speed when starting the upwind leg.

 

When going around the mark right in front of another boat, pinch a little bit for a brief moment to gain some extra height. This will slow you down a little, but the boat right behind you will have to bear away, getting them into the disturbed air leeward to you and forcing them to stay on port tack. This also gives you the option to tack without having to worry about a boat right behind you, especially when you think the left side of the course is favoured. Just make sure not to overdo it and stall the boat as then the other boat can pass you to leeward.

 

Lastly, don’t forget to set your controls in time. I usually do it in this order: daggerboard, outhaul, cunningham and kicker.

 

 

I hope you’re doing well and hope to see soon, maybe in Eastbourne.

Juliane, GER '

 

Photos; Weymouth Worlds 2018 and Garda RS Aerocup 2017