Forums > Windsurfing   Western Australia

Sailing through the lulls

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Created by Maddog49 > 9 months ago, 16 Feb 2015
Maddog49
WA, 102 posts
16 Feb 2015 9:38PM
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Any tips on sailing through the lulls .
I find I get going quite well in 15- 20 knots but when I hit a lull I come almost to stop quite quickly.
Many of the really good sailors seem to sail through the lulls without slowing down.
Any advice would be appreciated.

Hooksey
WA, 558 posts
16 Feb 2015 9:53PM
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I find that if I sheet out or point slightly more upwind during lulls that will often keep me going.

Im sure that someone here can provide the tech explanation re how this works and the comparison to an airplane wing.



sausage
QLD, 4873 posts
17 Feb 2015 12:14AM
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Take the weight off the back foot and transfer your weight forward through the harness lines to increase the mast foot pressure and therefore keep the board trimmed nicely through the water. Don't point too hard though as this can slow some of your speed and cause you to stall as will bearing off. Pick the smoothest sailing line without moving all over the place. Of course when that lull drops off even more you may need to start pumping the back of the board to generate some more fin lift.

Also positioning the sail slightly forward (more upright) by straightening the leading arm can give you some extra drive.

Maddog49
WA, 102 posts
17 Feb 2015 6:53PM
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Thanks Sausage. I was quite surprised about turning up wind.
I will try moving weight forward. Do you keep your feet in the straps or do you take them out?



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Forums > Windsurfing   Western Australia


"Sailing through the lulls" started by Maddog49