Pinch or Sail?
I've frequently found myself trying to catch up and point higher than the boat in front. In some cases that guy will stall out and I've been able to ghost bye. More often, it's just a pinching battle, nothing is gained Of course, you have to try to point higher than the other guy, but if it's not working fall off to get boat speed. This brings me to my point: With the traveller and boom moved to the windward, the resultant force vector, emmanating from the center of effort, falls farther away and to the lee of the longitudal axis of the boat. Hense, the accelleration, which produces a change in the apparent wind, is very slow to happen and will force you to fall off anyway. Modern sail design, on Hunters, with 7/8 rig and full battened main means that the main sail is the primary driving force, unlike the old days when Genoa sails where 180% and the venturi effect was profound. Today, aspect ratios have increased. The leading edge of the main, where the power is, has been optimized by the reduction of drag from shortening the boom and needless sail area. Conclusion: Fall of to get optimum boat speed and you'll still have enough time to tack to make the windward mark. Not only is it more fun and less stressful than pinching, the air is cleaner when you're alone. Hunters sail higher/faster than most boats! NO Traveler is necessary unless you just want to move the main sheet farther forward to clear a Bimini and they are impressive. Respectfully, Larry B., v/s CNTRL SEA
