Racing synthesizes all the best in sailing with plus factors that naturally stem from competition. Let the man who proclaims his preference for cruising and his lack of competitive spirit ask himself how many times, while lazying along, he has sprung into action when he sees another boat coming up from behind. It’s the natural response. Whether it be sailing or other sports, competition provides the necessary spark that makes you do your best.
As with other sports, there is advantage to learn young, but many people take up sailing in later life, often with sensational results. An excellent way to practice and refine racing technique is through dinghy racing.
The more I have raced, the more convinced I have become of the predominating importance of sails. In my opinion 75% of success of any racing boat is attributable to sails. This fact should compel the enterprising sailor to learn the characteristics of a good sail and how it is constructed so he will be able to suggest corrections to the sail maker if any defects appear.
No skipper in my opinion can win consistently with poor sails. There is no ability, magical touch or anything else that will overcome this most serious disadvantage. It is for this reason that I believe so staunchly in the complete One Design hull, rig, and sails. Of course , in open classes the hull design is very great importance but sails again must be the best for a well design hull to perform most effectively. It is fun to think that we have won on our own ability but don’t overlook the credit due the designer and sailmaker in open class, or to the sailmaker in the One Design without one design sail equipment.