Starts

[Sean Coerse]

I race a H240 in the non spinaker class. For the most part I have the smallest boat on the starting line. The start includes both the non spinaker and the spinaker fleet at the same time. Usually 12-20 boats. Last year I noticed that having a great start at the favored end of the line didn't help as much as is does racing one designs. The larger boats to leeward sail right under me then I get all their bad air as we work our way up the winward leg. I changed my strategy to keeping in contact and covering the 2-3 boats that usually finish front of me. Any thoughts on strategies. I had some top 3 finishes but they were in light air when I could take advantage of off wind performance and raise the centerboard.

 

[Steven Gautney]

What are your racing goals?

We race our 23.5 with a spinnaker but the majority of our sailing club fleet is made up of J/22's, Flying Scott's, and Thistle's. I'm impressed with your 3rd place finish. Is there a handicapp or PHRF system used? My overall point is the 23.5/240 is a cruising boat and really isn't a club racer . . .but I learn more about sailing and have a great time . . .

 

[Sean Coerse]

PHRFI

I race PHRF. In light wind we beat H29.5, C27, Oday 272 straight up. In medium to heavy air finish towards back, but corrected time put in top 3 or 4.

 

[PJ]

12 to 20 boats is a big fleet

and it should not make a difference at the start if they are spin or Jam as you are going upwind. I suspect your 'smallest' boat means you have a PHRF rating of say 175 or so and the big boats may even have a rating of 110 or less. Any section with a spread of about 30 (PHRF) and the advantage goes to the faster boat. Its the inconsistancy of PHRF. Although sections should not have a spread of more than 30, sometimes you just will not get enough boats in a section unless you open it up.Good LuckPJ