Rough day but we finished

[freddyray]

Just having gotten into sailing about 2 months ago I entered my boat (17 ft daysailer) in the local race. The race was yesterday. We stared out with winds of 13-18 mph gusting to 25 and the winds got stronger as the day went on. The first leg was 3.7 miles on a run. Got to the first mark in 40 minutes. Then had to turn back into the wind. The problem we had was not enough meat to put on the rail. There were only two of us and my captain could not get on the rail with me. I spent most of the day hiked out on the rail. Several times we had to dump the main to keep from capsizing. Without enough rail meat we could not take advantage of the winds due to heel. We did finish though and had a great time.

[Stillraining]

Good for you to just jump right in and go for it.

I doubt you have any reef points on a boat that small but as you can tell you could benefit from one or two..You will sail just as fast in a flatter angel...no additional rail meat required.

[freddyray]

I am having reefing point put in the sail this winter. There was some doubt about the sails, but if they didn't tear yesterday I think they are in good shape.

[runner]

Sounds like you had fun!