[C320-list] When do you reef?

[Rick Evans]

Kevin

One thing I realized I have found makes a huge difference is what keel you have. 

I seem to have to reef early because I have a deep keel. At first that might not make sense as it did not to me until someone from my club explained it. 

A wing keel in a gust will first be pushed sideways instead of heeling way over. A deep keel such as mine in a gust and heavier wind will not be pushed sideways do to the pointing and holding ability of the deeper fin. The energy then makes the boat heel over quicker in lighter wind. 

While racing with a good crew I have found I do much better in gusts against the othe 320 who has a wing keel because I point higher as he gets pushed sideways. 

This is not advantageous with the wife and two kids on board on a cruise. 

Hope this clears this up. 

Rick
724
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-----Original Message-----
From: Kevin <onedrop7 at yahoo.com>

Date: Mon, 9 Mar 2009 16:42:55 
To: <C320-List at Catalina320.com>
Subject: [C320-list] When do you reef?



Hi All,

I got my 320 in the late fall and she's been on the hard through the winter so I still have lots to learn about her.

Just wondering...at what wind speed do you reef? The 320 sails best with minimal heel, correct? Do you ever start by lessening the sail area of your genny before putting in a reef?

Thanks.

Kevin
#211