Structured approach of Racing

Principles

• Time is precious, use it as effectively as possible
• Prepare as well as you possibly can
• Learn as much as you can from every race

How?

• Set goals - How much do you really want to win?  How important is this really to you?
• Work out how much time you have - where are you going to find 300 hours?
• Follow a structured approach to every aspect of racing
• Record everything thoroughly
• Plan plan plan - Prior preparation prevents (p*ss) poor performance

Prior to any racing in season

• Print out the rules
• Get a tape measure
• Measure boat
• Centreboard position

• King Pin and leading edge of board
• Mast position
• Mast rake
• Position of jib tracks
• MARK THESE ON THE BOAT

• Is boat fast?

• Check hull, fill and sand any damage
• Check foils - fill and sand any damage
• Check centerboard gasket
• Check centerboard and rudder are aligned
• Polish hull - Starbrite Marine Polish with Teflon - Buy it at Canadian Tire

• Buy a note book
• Buy a china graph/grease pencil
• Buy a compass

Prior to going to a travelling event

• Write a list of what you are going to take
  • Basics e.g. sails
  • Spares
  • Tools
  • Documents
  • Gear/clothing - boots
• Print off a list and check you have everything

Prior to leaving dock

• Read notes from last sail
• All repairs from last sail completed
• Check of key components - particularly if sailing a club boat
  • Mast rake
  • Condition of ropes
  • All clips taped
  • All woollies/burgee etc. intact
  • Shroud pin position

• Check of key items on board
  • China graph/grease pencil
  • Paddle
  • Bailing bucket
  • Spares - line, shackles, multi-tool
  • Compass

• Forecast
  • What is the wind strength?
  • Is it forecast to change strength during the race?
  • How should the boat be set up initially?
  • Might it need to be changed in the race or between races?
  • If so, how?
  • Is the wind forecast to change direction during the race?
  • If so, how and where on the course will get the advantage?
  • Is there any tide?  What time is high/low water?  How will it affect the race?

• Course?