Laser Sailboat Racing Techniques

Fast laser sailing requires an advanced level of fitness in order to endure the straight legged hiking and body torque techniques essential in getting upwind and reaching quickly.

Laser sailboat racing techniques.

Rigging a laser for racing as supplied by the builder the laser is equipped for sailing but not for highly competitive racing. Although the one design rules for a laser are very strict the sail adjustment methods can be refined by using appropriate techniques and ropes of the correct type and size. Laser sailboat racing is a fun challenging and exciting sport that requires excellent physical and mental endurance to be competitive on a high level. Choose the right race ask around and pick a race that s not ultra competitive.

Some don t care for the pressure it can bring about but a few sailboat races is great for learning the ropes quickly. Luffing no propulsive force 0 30 b. Broad reach lift drag 135 e. Press the space key then arrow keys to make a selection.

Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. In sailing the conditions are constantly changing so there s always something new to learn in the sport of sailing even if you re an olympic gold medalist or america s cup helmsman. Since 1998 laser sailing has increased not only to be physical upwind and reaching but also to include far more demanding sailing. Here are eight tips for the first time sailboat racer that will make the challenge a bit more manageable and a little less daunting.

Beam reach lift 90 d. Running drag 180 true wind v t is the same everywhere in the diagram whereas boat velocity v b and apparent wind v a vary with point of sail. Laser sailing and racing present a unique set of physical and skill based challenges.