Ross didn't mention that he has attached a poll. Please vote.

How about those with the skills to sail in 5 knots pass some of their secrets on so the rest of us can sail as well? Problem fixed.(Howls of "Yeah Right" from Hayden, Russell, etc) :-)

Rather than a wind limit perhaps a speed limit is a way to go? With an electronic timing system and a known length of the course its easy to calculate the average lap speed. The first 4 or competitors in a race have to be lapping at over 5km/hr. i.e faster than can be achieved by wheeling.... (This can be worked the other way as well. Having a maximum lap time for the top 4 competitors.)

In my last post I wasn't suggesting to limit the sail choice of any sailor. I just don't want to see the Super Heavies missing out because the light weights are sailing with a 5.5m and they can't get moving.

For the cost argument please consider the following. If you were buying your entire set up again with 2 sails – would you buy a 3 and 4 or 4 and 5.5? In which case the cost increase from 3 -> 5.5 is around $500. Already got a 3m and need a 5.5? -> the joys of being first in. I believe that most people should be able to get good use of the equipment with 2 sails. The super competitive would have a 3rd sail.

With BK Heaven Paul etc has figured out on light days the wind passes across in waves. In which case waiting 10 mins for the wind to be constant means starting the race with the wind dropping. Starting a race when the wind is starting to pick up is the way to go.

I think this topic deserves some good discussion on the issues. Keep it coming. :-)

Off to BPP now to practise light wind sailing.

Cheers
Nick ABC 37

"flatulating cow on a blokart would probably have beaten me." LOL. So much for a carbon neutral / global warming neutral sport... perhaps I should have baked beans for lunch.