Principles of sailing fast upwind

Dave Dellenbaugh, member of the 2025 Class of the National Sailing Hall of Fame, shares some basic speed principles in WindCheck magazine:

If you want to win more races, improving your speed upwind is one of the best things you can do. By going just a little faster through the water and/or pointing slightly higher, you will have much more success in holding a lane of clear air after the start and arriving at the windward mark in better shape. Here are some basic principles you can always follow to improve your boat’s performance upwind.

• Copy what the fast boats are doing. Your competitors are a great source of go-fast ideas, so keep an eye on them. Pay particular attention to boats that are going faster than you, and don’t be afraid to copy their set-up. For example, how are they trimming their sails and positioning their weight? You can learn a lot just by watching them on the race course; many sailors will also be willing to share ideas if you talk with them ashore. – Full report