I have learned from use that the WAAS enabled GPS units are very accurate which is both a source for reduction of errors AND introduction of errors. I have a very small Garmin unit that can be warn on the wrist. It is so accurate that it will record the speed my wrist is moving as I hoist a spinnaker, trim the mainsheet, or make any other high speed arm movements. So I get the max speed of my WRIST, not the boat. If my wrist is moving in the same direction as the boat then it can be a pretty dramatic increase in max speed over what reason would inform me is the boat speed.

We have taken our GPSs downhill skiing and been amused by the amazing speeds that have been produced in some spectacular "skiing pitchpoles". The speed of the hand holding the GPS while the arms go flailing adds to the downhill speed so that my personal record is 132 mph! You can amuse yourself with your GPS by "throwing" it as fast as possible (DON'T let go!) to see what "Max speed" you can produce while standing still. Try it yourself and report your findings back here on the forum.

Mike Fahle Toledo (Had our season first snowfall yesterday)