When I was still racing, I used non-furling sails. I started with a 152; then switched to a 135, and finally to a 110. Each switch gave me a higher PHRF rating. Switching to a 135 gave me six seconds more, and the 110 gave me an additional three seconds. Going from a 135 to a 110 cost me very little speed, but I pointed higher, more than making up for the slightly lower speed. More often than not I was first to the windward mark. Off the wind I used a spinnaker, so I didn't need a larger jib.
In answer to your question, I have a furling genoa with foam sandwiched between sailcloth layers (near the luff). I can sail with the furled genoa and still have good sail shape. It doesn't damage the sail, but furling on the wind in heavy air is difficult. I can use a winch, but I have to be careful not to get overrides. If you don't use a spinnaker, try using the furled genoa and non-furled genoa, depending on wind conditions. If you have a 110, try racing with that and get your PHRF rating increased. Another advantage of the smaller sail is it's easier for the crew to get it all the way.in much faster. Let us know how these suggestions work. Alan Bergen 35 Mk III Thirsty Rose City YC Portland, OR On Mon, Sep 12, 2022 at 7:12 AM David Knecht via CnC-List < cnc-list@cnc-list.com> wrote: > I was talking to the skipper of a J27 who nearly always wins our PHRF > class and he was telling me that while he wins a lot, he struggles in > heavier air. He said he had recently started partially roller furling his > large genoa for upwind legs and then unfurling downwind when the wind was > strong enough to overpower him. I have never considered doing that and my > larger genoa does not have “reef points” . What are the groups thoughts on > the value/feasibility of this? Any reason it would be bad for the sail? > It certainly would be easier than putting on my smaller sail when winds are > questionable. I worry about not only sail shape, but when partially > furled, the furler and genoa sheet are fighting each other, which might not > be a good thing for the furler. Dave > > S/V Aries > 1990 C&C 34+ > New London, CT > > >
