[C320-list] Boat Speed

[Rick Evans]

I would second that the number one improvement you can make is sails. But I read an article about preparing a race boat and it said start with the bottom and work your way up. 

I followed this advice this year and stripped the bottom of 724 down to the epoxy coat then applied VC Offshore bottom paint. Once that was complete I wet sanded the paint with 400 grit paper twice. I club race and the difference between last year and this year is amazing. 

I still have a fixed prop will change next year. 

Also I recently got a used mylar 155 very cheap off the internet it should be here tomorrow at my first race I will let you know how it goes. 

Something no one mentioned that I think is a huge bang for your buck is a line adjustable jib lead cars. Every bigger boat I raced on had them and if you have a really good jib trimmer up wind and you constantly adjust them to slight wind and wave conditions I feel its a pure skill that could give you an advantage in a race. They are next on my list. 

Good luck
Rick 724
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

-----Original Message-----
From: jimc320 at aol.com

Date: Tue, 30 Jun 2009 07:24:16 
To: <C320-List at Catalina320.com>
Subject: Re: [C320-list] Boat Speed


Larrry,

I think the biggest gain?than a would be from a new set of good sails. I replaced my stock sails after 10 years and it made a nice improvement to the boat.? The boat now points higher and I and handles light and heavy wind better.? The sails I got were from Quantum. I went with a loose footed main which allows?much better sail adjustment/shape over the old sail.


Jim Mills
Elusive 2, 209

-----Original Message-----
From: Pam Rizzo <lrizzo at socal.rr.com>
To: c320-list at catalina320.com
Sent: Tue, Jun 30, 2009 12:44 am
Subject: [C320-list] Boat Speed



I am trying to prioritize some changes for my 2002/320 to improve speed and 
pointing ability.  I have a Gori 3-bladed prop, and am considering new sails and 
a backstay adjuster.  I usually race in the cruising class and have nine year 
old Catalina sails (135% genoa and main).  I race in the Long Beach, Ca area and 
enter the Newport to Ensenada Race each year.
Could anyone offer me some suggestions about which changes will produce the most 
noticeable results, and any other ideas on hand.
Larry Rizzo
Calibreeze #887