Martini Sailing Team Gybing

Gybing the asymmetrical is a tricky move under race pressure and requires all the crew to be in sync and the timing to be perfect.

When doing the inside gybe from starboard to port, as the boat is turning downwind we start pulling the lazy sheet. Using 2 crew members is best. The current active sheet needs to be cleared and fed around the forestay. Make sure the crew has a stable base with feet apart, or they are leaning against the lifeline. When doing sail handling manoeuvres, always make sure you have protective gloves on to protect your hands.

In very light air, the spinnaker can be gybed around to the new side before the mainsail crosses the centre line.

When the spinnaker is on the new side, the forward crew member who was pulling the sheet around then pulls down on the new sheet, which helps set the sail.

It is best to ease the mainsail out slowly so that it does not disturb the airflow in and around the newly set spinnaker.

As the spinnaker sets on the new side and power is increased, it is critical that all available crew weight is on the new windward side of the boat to keep it flat. At this stage the helm can then be steering a slightly lower angle. Make sure one of the two crew pulling the sheet around is the lightest weight team member to help reduce weight to leeward.

Club Member Tony Cuschieri and his Martini Racing team show us how it’s done in this small video. Tony steers a very smooth curve, and sits down as soon as possible to have a clear view and a stable position coming out of the gybe.

Enjoy your weekend and if you see Adrian around the club make sure to say hello and search for his tips and advice to help your sailing!