JonesySail said..
What's the general consensus on best board size up there? Is it best to have something with a few extra ltr to float out to wind/sail zones etc?
2 Board option : Lighter riders 85 +110 > Heavier riders 90+120 1 Board option : Lighter riders 90-95 > Heavier riders 100-110 Would be a common consensus...
Factors / variables which can easily vary above by +/- 5 or more litres ;
Board style : (slalom/race usually more efficient for size and so can be used slightly smaller than same litreage freeride)
Sail tuning : Riders opting to carry larger, more powered rigs in a given set of conditions normally do so on slightly larger boards.
Rider preference : Ultimately, some guys simply prefer a slightly bigger (or smaller) board for a given condition/rider weight
GI for slalom and particularly GPS Freerace is an interesting venue as it can reward both low/er power+lower drag or
high/er power+higher drag combos depending on conditions, or even location within the sailing area due to water state variables.
Generally in smoother conditions yielding higher speeds a slighter smaller, lower drag combo can reward with better top end on longer runs
(more advantage than rougher waters where rougher water doesnt allow the board to accelerate as freely or to the same top end speed).
Also consider in Freerace you're aiming at full speed for an hour, and more likely running near beam reach angles (c/w broad slalom),
both of which tend to influence the optimum sail (and board+fin) size down a little over the downwind slalom choice in the same conditions.
Conversely, in short sharp slalom races with a lot of mark roundings relative to overall race duration, faster acceleration back to a
slightly slower top speed (big gear) normally rules over slower acceleration to a higher top speed (small gear).
Floating out should not normally be an issue affecting race performance; although transiting in/out of some lighter wind areas will be more
convenient on a larger volume board, racing would not be conducted in these shadow areas. Almost every rider would select the ideal board
for the course (not shadow area) and expect/tolerate some transit compromise in exchange for optimum on-course performance.
GI does have some underwater features that can be profitable for G10 suppliers, shares in Tuttle Corp or patient queues at McLeod Street Medical.
Most riders using reasonable skill and care will avoid contribution to the carnage, however riders wishing to reduce their transit challenge may prefer
to bring booties simply for surety transiting over uncertain terrain. Once offshore, these are easily removed and into the start or course boat.
Only for the most wary - but a reasonable precaution if concerned. Most especially for those not familiar with GI or sailing areas with extensive shallow reef sections. A decent reef cut is likely to take the edge off more than just the coral you kick..
Anticipated wind range is from around 15 to 25-30 kts and being tropical wind the power/grunt is slightly less than colder climes.
15 represents a common light wind day; our aim is a reasonable planing minimum. In winds 30Kts + safety and race management issues
would restrict safe racing in large groups (extreme offshore location plus boats cannot safely access reef areas in higher winds),
and a relocation to the more sheltered side of the island would be considered, where in moderate winds Freestyle could be a good option.
Overall, with modern equipment and a modest amount of tuning, the expected racing range should be very adequately covered by
2 well selected boards paired with 2 well tuned sails. Yes, carefully selecting your gear and making the most of the quota is an intentional part
of the challenge of this competition. Given the reasonably consistent conditions and moderate wind range expected, all very doable.
Bring on the team Freerace!!!!
I,m sad enough
