Hi Kirt,
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<br>The many results that I have submitted do not distinquish between different courses selected around the bouy's. I do however indicate distance races when I submit results from such an event. I would think that reaching would occur more often in distance races, where the course is generally fixed, irrespective of wind direction. As opposed to a course which is set with respect to the wind direction. On the Portsmouth Committee, when we review a particular set of distance results (it is usually for research, to support or contradict a point of concern), we usually get a wind strength and general indication of direction. Around the bouy results usually only include a windstrength. If there is an indication the results are somehow annomalous,, and might lead to false conclusions, they would not likely be considered (ie: tossed).
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<br>But since windward leeward racing has become more prevelent in the last 10 years, it does stand to reason that the ratings would reflect that trend.
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<br>Frankly, I would like to see a little more reaching included in bouy racing. I don't buy the "its just a parade" arguement. If can push your boat harder than the next team on the reach you will gain ground,,, screwup and your competition will pass you. The ability to generate maximum boat speed on the reach is, for some, becoming a lost or unpracticed skill. Reaching is arguably less tactical, however white knuckle boatspeed is an exciting and very real aspect of cat racing too. Personally,,, I attack other boats and/or defend my air, similar to other encounters on the course. Things just happen faster and the leg is over quicker, given the more direct route to B mark.
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<br>Question,,, what were the wind conditions during that reaching leg,,,, why could the 20 footer not save his time against the other boats ?? Was it more a matter of him being disadvantaged by the shift ??
<br><br><br>Keep at least one hull in the air !!!
<br>Alan Maguire