Racing 29.5
The 28.5 does very well if properly equipped/maintained. The rating on the Chesapeake is 174. Biggest bummer for racing is the small cockpit. I race my 28.5 extensively and do very well. Last year we won the CCV highpoint, and Southern Bay Fall Series, second in Spring and CBYRA Highpoint Region IV South . This year we have won Spring, Southern Bay Race Week, and are close to repeating the CCV highpoint. We were .25 points from winning the Stingray Point Regatta over Labor Day. I will say that its rating is not a gimme. I have a real seasoned team and I have spent (probably) too much money. I tell you though in 10-12 knots and flat seas we have not lost in a long time. I have added/upgraded wenches, clutches, solid vang.... The bottom is critical. I spent allot of time fairing keel rudder through hulls. Made a cover for the shaft box. Martec Folding prop I use North sails. The loft in Hampton VA is great. We have played with several combinations I use a mylar 144% No. 2. (Trust me on this) and a light mylar No.1 A kevlar No.3, and a dacron main, full batten top only. The boat is tender, No 1 comes down at 12 or so anyway. I use a 0.6 AP Kite. Bring the fairleads WAY back when over 15. The no 2 just kinda wraps around the spreaders, almost weird. It took me 2-3 years to figure out the heavy air setup. I have a 110% jib with track for the fairleads mounted on the top. I use Baltic Plate on the bottom. I have also been real impressed with a Hunter 26 or 26.5 that races here. If you are buying, and primary is to day sail and race, take a look at this boat. (I think it has a very sweet rating!) Good luck! Ulysses
