TEACHING STUDENTS TO SAIL


SAIL CONTROLS Sail controls are the lines or mechanical adjustments that a sailor uses in order to


change the features of a sail and to change its power. Essentially, sail controls are used to control and adjust sail shape and angle of attack.


Mainsail Controls Here are some basic descriptions of mainsail controls. They include some teaching tips and techniques to help your students understand and remember what the various controls do.


Mainsheet The mainsheet controls angle of attack of the mainsail to the wind and is the primary control for leech tension. Remember, leech tension directly affects the ability of a boat to point closer to the wind.


E Mid-boom sheeting: Sheet tension affects leech tension and forestay tension. E End-boom sheeting: Sheet tension affects leech tension to a greater degree than mid-boom sheeting by pulling down on the outboard end of the boom and forestay tension.


Outhaul The outhaul pulls the foot of the sail out along the boom. In addition to making the lower third of the sail flatter, it allows the lowest batten to “open up” or hook less to windward.


TEACHING TIPS: To demonstrate this, put the four fingers on your right hand together (with your thumb upward like a mast), flatten out your palm and point your hand directly away from you towards your students. Put a dry erase marker between your third and fourth fingers, parallel with your fingers and protruding about one inch. Slightly cup your palm. That’s the sail with the outhaul eased -- the marker is the lowest batten. Have your students watch the batten as the sail is flattened (palm is straightened). The marker will hook less and point straight back.


Draft


Table of Contents


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