Hello all,
I don't own an O-30, but I subscribe to your e-mail system because I like to stay in touch with active one design classes. Let me just say that your discussions are always interesting and usually entertaining as well. Normally I do not intrude, but on the subject of whether or not to have #2 sails I do have a bit to say based on my experience in other one design fleets.
Over the years, I have actively campaigned two types of boat that allow only the #1 and blade, the Santana 20 and the J24. During this time I came to realize that, although the limitation does save money, it often a severe determent to light or untrained crews and to neophyte owners. Basically, carrying a #1 out to 20 knots is not a picnic. Sure, a practiced crew can do it effectively, especially when trying to stay powered up for chop, but it is damn intimidating to a new owner with untrained crew. The alternative, changing down to the number #3 when no one else does, can be very humiliating, especially when the entire fleet powers off and leaves you wallowing. The problems are even worse if you are still trying to build a crew and often find yourself light or short. I can't tell you how many times I wished the classes I was involved with allowed a #2 so new people could at least come out and compete without being either, totally knocked about, or horizoned.
OK, I don't know exactly how your class rules are now, but I personally recommend that you continue to allow some type of #2 as an option. On the other hand, it need not be a requirement and if you don't think you need one, don't get one.
Lance Purdy
Banks Sails
(415)290-8080 (day)
(916)684-0639 (evening)
(800)436-9330 (message only)
(916)684-0945 (fax)
seabear@ardennet.com (e-mail)
Received on Wed Feb 23 23:16:53 2000