Suggestions to point higher

[RickDuste]

When racing in J22 one class races it appears other boats can point higher on upwind leg. Any suggestions of what I might try or look at? 8 to 10 knot wind range.

[cdoyle]

1. New sails, or at least a new jib.

 

2. New keel job...makes a huge difference particularly in tight lanes.

 

3. Try making the headstay longer in 1/4" increments. If the headstay is to short, the skipper tends to pull on the mainsheet too much tottery to get the bow up.

 

4. Lately, I have used a little backstay in the 8 - 10 knot range unless the water is super-flat. That keeps the headstay from moving around.

 

Also, speed helps point. So make sure the boat bottom is smooth, too.