I'm looking for advice going upwind. I've heard many sailors say that one should sheet in the main as hard as possible, implying that it can't be overdone. I sail a Spitfire, which has a fairly fat head, although not as extreme as this year's sails. I have noticed the boat stalls if I sheet too hard upwind. Is the 'block to block' advice outdated, related to pin heads, or just as good as it ever was? Does the downhaul come in to play at this point, to reduce the profile of the sail, as seen from the front, and hence reduce drag? But that would alo reduce power wouldn't it? Now you can see I am somewhat confused! Unfortunately I don't have another Spitfire to sail against at my club - but I love it!
Simon