When I sailed in company with Footprints about two years ago, it was noticeable that she was 1-2 knots slower than Tystie, on the wind, and pointed 10-15 degrees lower. David Thatcher has been pondering and cogitating ever since on how to improve that situation.
The present sail is of 16oz Duradon and extremely heavy (as is the yard). It is a flat cut HM design.
Well, we have settled on making a sail to the Fantail design, scaled up to 53 sq m. The lower panels will have 6% camber, as on Fantail, with decreasing camber towards the head. I have my Sailrite machine aboard, and David can organize the space.
The sailcloth has arrived in New Zealand, and David is in the process of getting it through
Customs. As soon as I arrive in the Mahurangi area, we can get to work. Can we get it finished for the NZ rally? Watch this space...