mast raising and support pictures
Click on the link below and check the pictures. There is one there that describes single handed mast raising. Note other pictures of a mast support at the aft end of the boat which makes the process easier. I'm almost 50 and over 200# and have no problem doing this, usually with one hand to start from horizontal, then a shoulder at the 45 degree position, then two hands for steadying near the upright postion, then holding it in place with one hand while snubbing the jib halyard with the other, which holds the mast in place. The picture caption explains the details of using a short leash rigged from the business end of the jib halyard to the stemhead.
