Simon Hiscocks Shares Tips on Planning a Leeward Gate Rounding When Flying an Asymmetric Spinnaker with Andy Rice
The leeward gate, or leeward mark, is often a pivotal moment on the race course where strategic navigation can either propel you to victory or lead to a costly mistake. As Simon Hiscocks highlights, cleanly entering and exiting this critical zone requires foresight and precision, especially with the complexities introduced by an asymmetric spinnaker.
Plan Strategy Early
Timing is everything when planning your approach to the leeward marks. Begin your assessment even before the start gun goes off; this will give you an advantage in anticipating shifts in wind dynamics. If the race committee has already set the leeward gate, take the opportunity to observe the marks and determine which one might be favored.
After racing the first windward leg, make a mental note of the prevailing conditions on either side of the course. If one side appears to have a clear advantage, position yourself on the run accordingly. Early preparation can set the stage for a smoother entry at the bottom of the course.
Find the Clean Path
Choosing which mark of the gate to approach is perhaps the most critical decision as you progress down the run. The instinct may be to gravitate towards the mark that points toward the favored side for the next leg, but beware of the crowded chaos that often ensues.
If the fleet converges on the left-hand mark (downwind), you risk a logjam that forces you into the dirty air of boats ahead. In such scenarios, selecting the mark that steers away from the favored side could prove wiser. Clear air coupled with tactical freedom will often yield better outcomes than being trapped in a fleet of boats, compromising your speed and trajectory.
Aim for a ‘Unicorn’
As you approach the leeward marks, avoid the temptation to occupy the middle of the course. Such positioning allows boats from both sides to converge, increasing your vulnerability and forcing you to bear away more than desired. Instead, aim for a “Unicorn” approach: gybe early at the windward mark to ensure that when you gybe towards the layline, you can approach the left-hand mark with full rights over the boats on your right. This gives you superior positioning and an advantageous angle at the leeward mark.
The VMG Window
In light winds, maintaining your boat’s momentum is crucial. With asymmetric spinnakers, the Velocity Made Good (VMG) window is narrow, making it highly susceptible to variation. Attempting to sail too deep often results in reduced apparent wind, causing stalls in your sails and ultimately leading to a lack of steerage.
In lighter conditions, it’s often better to approach the mark from a slightly higher angle. This strategy maximizes your boat’s kinetic energy, ensuring that you’re set up to execute a smooth turn at the mark. Conversely, in heavier breezes, over-standing can be disastrous; sailing past the layline gives away crucial distance. Moreover, dropping the kite while at risk of broaching can severely limit your options.
Adjust for Current
When strong currents are at play, modifying your approach is essential. If the current is pushing you downwind, it’s wise to drop the gennaker earlier than usual. As you navigate your turn back upwind, keep your bow pointed firmly at the mark. This approach minimizes the risk of allowing challengers to slip through gaps in your defense.
On the flip side, if the current is working in your favor by taking you upwind, you should keep the gennaker flying as long as possible. Adopt a healthier than usual angle to maintain flow across the kite. If the air becomes light, avoid dropping the gennaker until your transom safely passes the mark, ensuring that you maintain momentum and control.
With these tips from Simon Hiscocks, approaching the leeward gate with an asymmetric spinnaker becomes not just a tactical challenge but an exciting opportunity for strategic advancement in your race. Happy sailing!