February 24, 2010
When to Split Tacks
Bill Gladstone of North U. is so excited for the upcoming 2010 North U. Race Trim Seminars, he decided to give US SAILING members a few racing tips starting in this week’s edition of the e-USSAILING Weekly Newsletter. Check the Trim Seminar schedule for more details. Read this week’s racing tip below:
When to Split Tacks
You know the old adage: “Can’t catch ‘em if we follow ‘em.” So, when you are behind you’ve got to split tacks to catch the leaders. In fact, splitting tacks is often a gamble with poor odds of success. To understand why, first answer this question: Which way are the leaders going, the right way or the wrong way? (Hint: they are in the lead.) If they are going the right way then splitting to go the wrong way is a low percentage play.
What to do instead:
First off, recognize that if the leaders don’t make any mistakes, you won’t catch them.
Don’t just split tacks for the sake of splitting. You’ve got to sail fast, and stay within striking distance so you can pass when they stumble. When the leaders are going the right way, then go that way. If they become preoccupied tactically and miss a shift, or fail to respond to a change in conditions (either tactically or in trim) then you get your chance.
But if you split for the sake of splitting and go the wrong way, then you will likely fall further behind; and you won’t be in position to capitalize when the leaders make a mistake.
Sail fast, be patient, and pounce when the opportunity arises.
North U. has partnered with US SAILING to provide our members with a couple great discounts.
- US SAILING members save $30 on North U. 2010 Race Trim Seminars.
- Purchase Learn the Racing Rules (2-DVD set) with Dave Dellenbaugh.
$60.00 Retail
$49.95 Members