How to start ahead of the fleet

Dear Curmudgeon: I consider myself a good starter, but my advantage never seems to last too long after the start. Any tips? – Can’t Hold Lane

Dear Lane: Quantum Sails shared good advice on this topic. They noted how a “good start” is useless if you’re forced to tack 30 seconds later. Winning the start means winning the next three to five minutes of clear air. And to do that, you need a lane.

Your primary goal in the final 30 seconds before the start is to protect a “hole” to leeward. This allows you to put the bow down and rumble at the gun without being pinched off. But this is a total team effort:
• Bow: Your eyes for the line and nearby boats.
• Trimmers: Constant adjustments to keep the boat at “minimum controllable speed” until the trigger pull.
• Helm/Tactician: Managing the “hole” and the countdown.

If you can sail straight for five minutes after the gun, you’re already ahead of 80% of the fleet. – The Curmudgeon