Weight Placement Downwind

When sailing away from the wind:

• Weight moves more toward the center
• In lighter wind, crew moves slightly forward
• Keep the stern from dragging

If the stern digs into the water:

• The boat slows down
• Steering becomes harder

In stronger wind, stay centered but ready to move quickly if the boat starts to roll.

If the centerboard has been raised and the boat feels unstable, lowering it slightly can increase stability and control.

When sailing downwind, the crew should:

• Keep one hand on the boom to prevent an accidental gybe
• Stay balanced and ready to move
• Look out for other boats that may be hidden by the sails

During a GYBE:

• Remove your hand from the boom
• Keep heads low
• Move smoothly across the boat
• Reestablish boom control once the boom has crossed

Boom awareness downwind prevents sudden movements and increases safety and control.