tammi5256
New Member
That's the question. Is there such a thing as "the Perfect Start". Ive raced lots of big boats but am fairly new to laser racing. Have raced a lot lately in smaller laser fleets (20 boats) and my techniques work pretty well. I'm interested to hear about different secrets to a good start in larger fleets. My basic approach (pin favored start) is to setup out of phase from the majority of the fleet which characteristically heads out to the right of the rc. Depending on wind strength (if it's light I stick on the line) I'll head down the line on starboard with around 1 minute 30 to go - scan upwind looking for pressure and direction, with 1 minute or so left tack, and head back up the line towards the starboard tackers making sure I have a clear lane to windward so when I decide to tack to starboard I'm not blocked. As I head down the line I see most of the fleet is bunched near the RC with a few guys setting up out in front. My perspective gives me a great picture of what's going on and allows me to tack below the lead guys coming down the line. I tack just below and head up to the line on starboard. I might need to stall the boat some but usually can head with speed towards the pin and get bow out. It,s fun to see the fleet coming towards you and try to thread the needle!