Take on first event - Jesse

After the completion of the Worlds, there are several different areas within skiff sailing which we were exposed to.

Positives
-Our straight line speed was quite good, however, sailing at such a shifty event did not see this emphasized.
-Our starting has improved much from our first start. We are beginning to catch on to the proper technique and manuevers required on the starting line. That said, we still need to fine tune the final 15seconds prior to the start, but we are getting close!
-We continually improved our tacks and gybes throughout the event.

Observations/comments on the racing
-Judging/managing the fleet
• Determining who is beating who is much different in the 49er due to their extreme angles both up and downwind.
• Can be potentially radical speed differences across the course. Implication- can lose or gain 100 yards in minutes.
-Approaching the leeward gate is an incredibly critical time as there are usually many boats all converging on the two marks. There is a lot of potential of gaining boats at this stage of the race since there are such great speed variances, and developing the proper technique/plan can permit us to capitalize on this. For example, being on either the starboard(obviously more powerful) or port layline in the final 100 yards to the gates enables you to have power heading into the mess at the leeward mark. More specifically, it allows you to have your spinnaker up longer, and avoid being swallowed in the middle of the course.
-Since the speed of these boats is so great, it is pertinent to develop game plans far in advance of situations. Whether it be planning convergences with other boats or planning which side you want to hit on the downwind, thinking well ahead is not only recommended, but required as your doing 12-15knots.
- Developing/improving our intuitive sense of balance within the boat no matter the breeze. In other words, in response to breeze changes knowing precisely how much body weight is needed, and where to place it. This is incredibly important, but naturally will be improved with time in the boat.