Hi all,

amazing how many different systems to get mast up. Of course I think mine is best but you are welcome to dissagree.

I have been using this system to raise mast on my own for 8 years or so. In our area winds can be very high so it is also designed to give total support and control at all stages.

First boat is on rollers pointed into wind.

Mast is layed on ground straight in front of boat, bridle is already in place, mast step is lifted into position held in place by pin.

All stays and trap wires are attached to mast and layed on ground, forestay is tied loosely to bridle, (giving it enough rope that when upright mast lays back against forestay as it is past vertical).

At this stage I tie or clip trap wires to rope on main beam that later take the turning block for spin. (if you dont have these you can put light rope on beam just for this job and leave it there).

Then I slip sidestays in between ropes at bottom of trap wires so they don't swing about and get tangled up. Now I run spin halyard and tie end to bridle again stopping it from getting tangled.

Then walk to what ever height it is OK to pick up your mast at, and raise it over head and walk toward boat walking hands up mast as you go, until it is upright then let it rest gently against forestay. It is now held sideways by trap wires and can not fall down, so you can move side to side and connect sidestays.

Then move traps to normal position and tension forestay and tie off.

The advantage I have found of this system is the only thing you need to step over is the bridle and there is nothing for stays etc. to get caught on. Something I often find myself helping others with rear raising masts as they get caught half way up.

Hope it makes sense to you all.

Regards Gary.