Where has the summer gone?


Wow, it's mid-August already. The blistering hot days are being replaced by cool mornings and the sun setting before 8PM. And I have not posted since launch day. Sorry about that, lots of stuff (sailing) going on, and my job has me on the road quite a bit. Still, it has been a great summer. I've got a bunch of topics I'm going to catch up on over the next week or so, so get ready.

Talking up Spinnakers.
To start up off, lets talk about spinnakers. When ever I mention to people that we fly one on Lake Harriet, I normally get the 'are you crazy' look. Well that's another topic but the real point is you can have lots of fun with spinnakers on small lakes if you plan ahead.

Use a snuffer. A snuffer (or sock) is key to use on small lakes. With it, you can get the sail up fast, and down faster. This is important because you only have a mile or so to work with, and if you take too long setting, it's time for it to come down right away. It's also much safer, as you can douse in a heartbeat, and then turn upwind. And away from the shore.

Think about an Asymmetric. An Asym is much more versatile on small lakes, and easier to fly. It also can sail to windward on light air days, and converts total no-sail days into fun sailing.

Sail reaches. Although the asym can go as deep as 150 degree AWA, you will run out of lake faster. Instead, bear up a bit and take the wind more on the beam. The boat will go faster, and you will get to cover more water. You will of course have to jibe, but that's all part of the fun!


Have crew on board. Figure at least three on board until you get the hang of it. Then you can try with two. Or solo if you are brave.

Think it through. There is lots going on, particularly in the setup. Make sure everyone understands how the sail is to be rigged. It saves on time. And water.

Have fun, be safe. The thing to remember about spinnakers is that they can overpower a boat, and that they MUST come down before you can turn to windward. If you think the conditions are too much, they probably are. Its kind of like reefing that way. Be prudent.




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