Jibe sounds easy on paper I just need to practice. I'm a bit nervous as the last time I raced in 20knots I was knocked over on the jibe. Not sure why exactly but I know it would have been more spectacular with a kite up. I'm think of bearing away and easing the traveller before the jibe just to soften the process a bit. Early on at least.
Actually, that's about the worst thing you can do! As Jake points out, going slower increases the relative wind speed. Letting the traveller out means that the boom will come across later and with a bigger bang, by which time the sail will be at a greater angle to the wind.
In my experience, this all gets easier, not harder, with the spi. In a decent wind, you should have the traveller pretty much centered with the spi. Keep the boat speed on during the gybe and you'll be amazed at how little fuss the main makes as it comes across.
Paul
