Two boats, same wind, heading for the same leeward mark. One sails straight at it, the other zig-zags all the way down. Which gets there first?
The zig-zag. Blue heads for the first gust, rides it, and when it runs out gybes into the next one. Blue links the gusts all the way down, sails about a fifth further than Red, and still rounds the mark four lengths in front. Isn't the straight line shorter? It is, and in even wind it is just as quick. The zig-zag only pays because it keeps you in more wind. Downwind the gusts come from behind you, so look back for the dark patches on the water and gybe to stay in them. No racing rule is involved: the boats never meet.
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<p><a href="https://sailing.kiwi.nz/v/VA9VnjXIzkQ/">Source: Sailing Kiwi</a></p>Go deeper: books and gear
- Tactics Made Simple by Jon Emmett — Racing tactics, explained simply.
- Elvstrøm Explains the Racing Rules 2025-2028 — Every rule, with plain-English explanations and diagrams.
- Racing Rules Companion 2025-2028 by Bryan Willis — Spiral-bound pocket guide to the current rules.
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