In most winds, especially big winds, more than 20, we take the top mark a bit high while coming to it. I would like to, if I could, get about 1 1/2 boat lengths high of the mark.

Before my crew goes in she eases the jib to the downwind setting. She goes into the boat, staying far back and readies with the spinnaker halyard.

By staying high of the mark it will force you to make a carving turn instead of a slam and you will be right next to the mark while you are passing it giving you back that boat and and half length. Send the main traveller down to the corner casting as you continue turning downwind. Do not sheet out.

In most conditions we sail Dead Down Wind to get the chute up as fast a possible. I rarely have someone on the boat capable of hoisting (read strong enough) when the boat is on a reach. As we come from DDW to the sailing angle we are able to ease ourselves into the strong breeze. When settled, the main traveller and chute come in at the same time.

Later,
Dan