RN1: Trimming lessons on Strewth

One of the other boats I sail on currently is Strewth, a first generation TP52 (formerly Trader). Having previously never raced anything over 38ft*, it is a big step up in terms of loads, complexity, and crew work. She is currently being worked up for the Hong Kong-Vietnam race, and then (maybe) the whole calendar of blue riband Pacific offshore races in 2011.

I'm very new to the boat, and so am taking whatever chances are thrown at me. This weekend included a huge (and probably un-merited) promotion to main jib trimmer, and as one of two downwind trimmers. The adrenalin was pumping as I took the kite sheet for a tight reach down to Basalt Island!

Upwind trim is where I have most to learn. Points to remember:

1. Oversheeting = slow. We only started hitting our target numbers once the jib was cracked off to the 3rd mark on the spreaders. In my defence, it's difficult to trim a jib that big and that new at first glance! However, it did mean we lost a lot of time on the first beat to the Ninepins
2. Percentage calls help tell the driver how near he is to being in the grove. 100% trim should only occur when you're at target speed, at target headings, and at a constant boat speed. Once it does, trimmer is probably best up on the high side until something changes. At which point, he'll probably be shouted at!
3. In-haulers close the slot. Sheet must be eased at the same time, or see 1.
4. Jib car forward reduces twist and adds power to the foot. Use as breeze gets lighter.
5. Jib car back flattens sail, and increases twist. Use as breeze builds.
6. The back of the boat is always right.

Downwind:

1. Face backwards to talk to grinders or they can't hear.
2. Code 0 trim is like a jib with a flexible luff - be prepared to let it roll.
3. Having a good foredeck means the back of the boat think nothing of sail changes.
4. Inside gybes and outside gybes need to be communicated, and speed of turn altered. 

Other things to note are:

1. There was a massive lift and better pressure under Table Island and the CWB Golf course.
2. Suncream needs reapplying at any quiet moment, otherwise your nose gets a layer of skin shorter.

Sorry, no pictures on this post. Maybe next time!

*Incidentally, the difference in length (14ft) is just about the length of the first boat I ever owned - a leaky Laser, purchased for all of 50 pounds sterling. It seemed like a lot of money as a student, but wasn't all that bad value given it was sold for a profit!