Twin Cities Sailing Club2015 Handbook

New Member Orientation Club Sailing Days Sailing Basics Guide to Club Sailboat Racing

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This handbook belongs to

Club Website: tcsailing.comDiscussion: groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/tcsailingNewsletter: eepurl.com/MRXsH

Table of Contents

Section 1: Orientation...............................................................................................................................3Welcome to Our Sailing Club!........................................................................................................................3The Club’s Guiding Philosophy.......................................................................................................................3Becoming a Skipper........................................................................................................................................32015 Executive Committee & Fleet Officers...................................................................................................4Membership Expectations.............................................................................................................................4Club Rules......................................................................................................................................................5Information and Communication...................................................................................................................5The “Skipper-Out” Process.............................................................................................................................6“The Deal”......................................................................................................................................................7Our Fleet........................................................................................................................................................7Boat Maintenance & Upkeep.........................................................................................................................8

Section 2: Club Sailing................................................................................................................................9Before You Arrive...........................................................................................................................................9Roles & Responsibilities...............................................................................................................................10Getting On the Water...................................................................................................................................10

Section 3: Sailing Basics...........................................................................................................................11Useful Knots.................................................................................................................................................11Sailing Terms................................................................................................................................................12Points of Sail.................................................................................................................................................14Rigging & De-rigging.....................................................................................................................................16Leaving the Dock..........................................................................................................................................17Landing at the Dock.....................................................................................................................................17Slowing and Stopping...................................................................................................................................18Right of Way Rules.......................................................................................................................................19Tacking (Coming About)...............................................................................................................................19Jibing (or Gybing).........................................................................................................................................20In and Out of Irons.......................................................................................................................................21Man Overboard Rescue Procedure..............................................................................................................22Capsizing......................................................................................................................................................23

Section 4: Racing.....................................................................................................................................24How Do I Get Involved?................................................................................................................................24When Are the Races?...................................................................................................................................25Fun2SailFast Program: for New and Returning Racers.................................................................................25How Do I Get A Racing Score Number?........................................................................................................25Racing & Financial Responsibility.................................................................................................................26

Appendix: TCSC Suggested Reading List...................................................................................................27

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nSection 1: Orientation

Welcome to Our Sailing Club !

The Twin Cities Sailing Club is a non-profit organization for adults of all skill levels interested in sailing. Our goal is to provide a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all members.

The Club’s Guiding Philosophy

When you join the Twin Cities Sailing Club, you are not just learning to sail or just sailing boats – it’s so much more than that. You are joining a community of fun-loving people dedicated to the sport of sailing. Our sailing club operates much like a cooperative; it is owned and operated by its members for their own benefit. As much as possible, the club promotes a “self-service” philosophy, meaning that your experience is dependent upon your initiative. More than anything else, individual member initiative is what creates a positive experience for each individual member – and improves the club as a whole.

Becoming a Skipper

You are encouraged to become a club-certified Skipper by learning how to sail and completing the club’s Skipper-Out Process. In addition to the prestige (and responsibilities) that come with being a Sailing Club Skipper, the biggest benefit is that you will gain access to club boats outside of club sailing times. Information on all the required sailing skills is included in this handbook, but we believe the best way to learn is to show up and sail!

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2015 Executive Committee & Fleet Officers

Executive committee officers and captains are a group of elected and appointed officers who volunteer their time and are responsible for managing the day to day operation of the club. For contact info, please use our online directory at http://tcsailing.com/oss/

Position Name Position NameCommodore Matt Stark Fleet Co-Captain John BergVice Commodore Alex Rodich Fleet Co-Captain Mike McDonaldRear Commodore Walton Stanley Boat Captain Jemiah AitchTreasurer Leif Helgeson Boat Captain Joe AllenSecretary Paul Clausen Boat Captain Shannon CraryHead Instructor David Smith Boat Captain Alan EnglerAssistant Instructor TBA Boat Captain Chris EtzRacing Coordinator John Berg Boat Captain Kara FancyShore Team Coordinator Steve Mahowald Boat Captain Geneva FinnBoat Launch Coordinator Joel Neisen Boat Captain Geo GiulianiBoat Launch Assistant John Humleker Boat Captain Jeff MittelmarkBoat Pull Coordinator David Weingartner Boat Captain Trudy OhnsorgSocial Coordinator Bobbi Dahlstrom Boat Captain Laura SilverTechnology Coordinator Kraig Larson Boat Captain Dennis SilversNew Member Coordinator Nicole Smith Boat Captain Donald SlanecJibs and Jybes Coordinator Orest Ladyzhynsky Boat Captain David SmithBoat Acquisition/Divestment Brian Cermak Boat Captain Tom SpielmanApostle Islands Coordinator Len Schmid Boat Captain Jerry TennisOfficer-At-Large Sarah Wisneski Shed Captain Lee Piechowski

Membership Expectations

The Twin Cities Sailing Club recognizes that its membership exhibits a diverse mixture of backgrounds, cultures, faiths, ages, genders, orientations and sailing abilities that adds to its vitality and the positive experience of its members. The club continues to thrive, thanks to the members who volunteer their time to maintain our fleet, manage club activities, and instruct new sailors. A main objective of the club is to establish a welcoming environment for all members, free from harassment and discrimination; an environment that promotes mutual respect, trust and open communication. As a member of the club, you agree to abide by the club’s policy prohibiting sexual harassment (available on our website). The expectation is that you, as a member, will share these values and strive to treat every member fairly and equally, with dignity and respect. Club leaders will help obtain our objective by modeling the positive behavior they wish to see, being available to hear any and all complaints, managing these complaints, handling conflicts in a fair, consistent and confidential manner, and consulting the Executive Committee when necessary.

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nClub Rules

1. There must be a Twin Cities Sailing Club Skipper on board a Sailing Club sailboat when under sail. That Skipper is fully responsible for the sailboat.

2. Guests must have a signed Sailing Club liability waiver on file with the club before they can sail on a Sailing Club sailboat. Find the waiver form online at tcsailing.com.

3. Everyone on a Sailing Club sailboat or tender must have a lifejacket on board. Guests under age 18 and non-swimmers must wear their lifejacket at all times while on board.

4. Each Sailing Club sailboat must have a paddle, bailing bucket, and throw-able flotation device onboard.

5. Before sailing any boat, look over the boat to make sure everything is in working order.6. In the event of a capsize, all sailors must stay with the sailboat. Our sailboats usually float

when capsized.7. If something breaks on a Sailing Club sailboat, the Skipper in charge should either make the

repair or report the damage to tcsc-boat-repair@googlegroups.com. An online report form is being developed that is expected to greatly improve this process.

8. If a member of Sailing Club causes damage to a non-club boat or property with a Sailing Club sailboat, the Skipper must report the incident to the Commodore.

9. All Sailing Club sailboats are reserved for club use during regularly scheduled club sailing.10. Sailing Club sailboats cannot be reserved for pleasure sailing. First-come, first-served is the

rule when there are no scheduled club times or races.11. Sailing Club sailboats must be reserved with the Racing Coordinator for use during scheduled

races with the Lake Harriet Yacht Club (LHYC).12. Sailing Club sailboats must be tied up to their assigned buoys on the lake after use.13. Sailing Club sailboats can be sailed only on Lake Harriet, except by prior arrangement with the

Commodore.14. Sailing Club sailboats can be sailed only during daylight hours.15. Sailing Club sailboats cannot be sailed when lightning is visible at the lake. If lightning appears

possible while you are already out on the lake, return to the dock immediately.16. No alcoholic beverages are allowed on Sailing Club sailboats.

Information and Communication

OSS: The Online Skipper Scheduler – The OSS (http://tcsailing.com/oss/) is the club’s web-based scheduling tool for lining up skippers and shore team on club sailing days. It also doubles as the Member Directory for the club. Ask the Membership Coordinator (membership@tcsailing.com) for access to the OSS.

Weekly newsletter - The club’s weekly electronic newsletter, Jibs & Jybes, contains up-to-date information about club events, including information about racing, learning opportunities, and social events. It also has links to instruction resources. This email is sent to all members each week during the season. If you are not receiving this important newsletter, contact the Commodore or sign up at http://eepurl.com/MRXsH

Website - The club’s web site is http://tcsailing.com. Important information, especially as it pertains to the public and potential new members, is posted on the website.

Google Groups Discussion Forum - Club members use Google Groups to connect with each other to sail outside of club times, to report maintenance issues, and much more.

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https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/tcsailing To get access, send your email address to membership@tcsailing.com

Club Document Library – An archive of club information for members and the Executive Committee. A link is available from the club’s main website. Use your Google account (the same username and password your use for the Google Groups Discussion Forum) to log in.

The “Skipper-Out” Process There are many benefits to becoming a Sailing Club Skipper, including the ability to take out club boats during non-club times and to enter races on Lake Harriet. New members with significant previous sailing experience may be eligible for a fast-track Skipper-Out process. If you believe you might qualify for fast-track, contact the Club’s Head Instructor. Members interested in becoming Skippers, but new to sailing, must complete the “Skipper-Out” process:

1. Obtain a “Skipper-Out Card” from the Dock Captain. Hang on to this card!!! It will be used to document your progress. All of the skills that you need to know to become a Skipper are listed on this card and explained in this handbook. If you don’t understand something, just ask a Skipper!

2. Practice your sailing procedures. You are responsible for your own development towards becoming a Skipper. Come to the dock at club times. Skippers will be available to sail with you, guide and document your improvement. If club times aren’t enough, talk to a Skipper about practicing outside of club times, or ask on the Club’s Google Groups Discussion Board.

3. Ask a Skipper to initial a skill box. When you are ready to test a skill, tell your Skipper. You need to demonstrate proficiency at a skill before your Skipper will initial the appropriate box on your card. Some skills will need to be demonstrated several times and under various wind conditions. You will be expected to describe the procedure as you do it, to demonstrate your understanding and ability to communicate with other crew members.

4. Skipper for a Day. When you have finished all the skill boxes on your Skipper Card, you will be ready to practice teaching others how to sail. An experienced Skipper will sail with you, but you will act as the skipper/instructor for another member learning their sailing skills.

5. Turn in your completed Skipper-Out Card to the Dock Captain after all skill boxes (except the Final Written Exam) have been initialed by a Skipper.

6. Pass the Written Exam. The Dock Captain will arrange to administer the written exam to you. You need to score at least 90% on the Written Exam to pass. You will discuss your results with your exam administrator.

7. Obtain your Skipper Packet. Upon successful completion of the Written Exam, you will receive a Skipper Packet that contains a certificate, information on the benefits and responsibilities of a being a Skipper, and tips on how to be a great Skipper. Your exam administrator will discuss and review the packet, benefits and expectations with you.

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n“The Deal ”

Special privileges granted to Skippers include first-come, first-serve access during non-club times to all boats in the fleet (with the exception of our keelboat, which has an additional qualification process). You also will have access to the racing program, and additional training opportunities such as "Skipper Week". You will also receive a discount off membership dues ($50 off in 2015) when you re-join the Club as a Skipper in future years. In exchange, all Skippers are expected to give back to the Club and volunteer as a sailing instructor for other members on at least two club sailing days per month. When a member “Skippers Out” in the middle of a season, they are allowed a 4 to 6 week grace period to build their confidence and comfort before they start teaching regularly as a Skipper on club sailing days. New skippers are encouraged to use this time to sail with experienced “Senior Skippers” to build their confidence and instruction skills.

A Skipper's privileges may be revoked if the Skipper does not meet the obligations of this “Deal”. Alternative arrangements may be made to fulfill this obligation to give back to the Club (shore-team, boat captain or maintenance volunteer), but those arrangements must be made with the Commodore prior to joining the Club or becoming a Skipper.

Our Fleet

As of 2015, our fleet consists of 17 boats in four different classes. These include five daysailers, ten MC scows, one C scow, and one keelboat. More information about the fleet is available at the club’s website (http://tcsailing.com/sailboat-fleet/).

Daysailers: We have five daysailers in the fleet. They are all Catalina Capris, which are 16.5 feet in length, sloop rigged, with a small cabin for stowing gear. They have centerboards that can be raised and lowered into the water to keep them from sliding sideways in the wind.

Racing Scows: We have eleven racing scows in total. Ten of them are in the “MC” class; these are 16-foot boats, cat-rigged, with daggerboards on each side of the boat instead of a single centerboard. The MC scow is very quick and nimble, making it a great boat for racing. The 11th scow in our fleet is a “C” class scow. It is similar to the MCs, but is 20 feet long with a much larger mainsail. This powerful boat can be a little intimidating, but it’s a blast to sail!

Keelboat: We have one keelboat in the fleet. It is a Victoria 18, which is 18.5 feet in length, sloop-rigged, with a small cabin with enough headroom for sitting in. Instead of a centerboard or daggerboards, this boat has a heavy fixed keel underneath. The heavy keel makes the boat nearly impossible to capsize, meaning that it can be sailed in heavier winds. Because its sailing characteristics and equipment are different from the rest of the fleet, you’ll need to have additional training specific to the keelboat before you can be authorized to sail it on your own.

Our sloop-rigged boats have masts near the center of the boat, with a mainsail behind the mast and a jib sail stretched between the mast and the bow of the boat. Our cat-rigged scows have the mast close to the bow; these boats have large mainsails and no jib.

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Boat Maintenance & Upkeep

Maintenance of the Club’s boats is a shared responsibility. As you might imagine, our boats see more sailing in a month than most people’s personal boats see in a year. As a result, it’s important that every member does their best to help keep our fleet safe and in good working order. To make this possible, we ask each member to help in the following ways:

Assume an ownership attitude. The Twin Cities Sailing Club operates as a cooperative; all Sailing Club members are part owners of the club and its assets. Treat the boats accordingly.

Before setting sail, review the boat’s sail, control lines, and moving parts to make sure that everything appears to be in a safe and sailable condition.

If you break something, please help fix it. Begin by emailing a message to the repair group (tcsc-boat-repair@googlegroups.com) with as much information as possible. At a minimum, include the boat name and a description of the problem, along with your name and contact information so we can get more details if needed. Even if you fix the problem yourself, we ask that you let the maintenance team know, so that they can keep track of each boat’s maintenance and repair issues. If you can’t post to the message board, contact one of the Fleet Captains listed in this handbook. If something breaks during club times, communicate with the Dock Captain. Be sure to ask the Fleet Captain what you can do to help. Tie a bailer to the mast to communicate that the boat is not in sailable condition.

Volunteer. There are maintenance events during the season that require the help of the Sailing Club’s members. Please set aside some time to help in these pursuits.

Boat launch and boat pull. These activities to transport our boats to and from Lake Harriet at the beginning and end of the season are labor intensive. Your help will be much appreciated, particularly if you own a car with a hitch and can haul a boat to/from storage.

Boat maintenance days. Periodic boat maintenance days will be organized throughout the season. On these days, club members will perform major and minor repairs and general boat cleaning.

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Club Sailing

Section 2: Club Sailing The club meets for open sailing on Tuesday evenings from 5:30 until 8:00, and on Saturday mornings between 9:00 and 11:30. For the first 6 weeks of the season (but not including Memorial Day weekend), the club also meets for open sailing on Sundays between 1:00 and 3:30.

Before You Arrive

Transportation & Parking. Lake Harriet can be very busy with events in addition to sailing, especially on summer weekends. Many foot races take place around the lake, which often means road closures that can make it difficult to get to the dock. Keep an eye on Jibs & Jybes or the Park Board’s Events page, and leave extra time for navigating through the crowds on days when big events are scheduled.

Cycling to the lake is a good way to avoid traffic and parking problems. Pay parking may be available in lots by the refectory (concession building) and by the boat shed & launch area. A relatively inexpensive Park Patron Parking Pass may be purchased from the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board (www.minneapolisparks.org). Free on-street parking may be available on neighborhood streets near W. 42nd St and S. Queen Ave. and along Lake Harriet Parkway.

What to bring: Our focus is on being safe and comfortable while sailing. Only one piece of gear is required to sail with the club: a Personal Flotation Device, better known as a PFD or a life jacket. PFDs can be purchased at most sporting goods stores. Look for one that you’re comfortable wearing, and that allows you to move around freely. On club sailing days, we suggest wearing a nametag on your PFD so that other members can match names with faces; better yet, you can write your name on your PFD with a permanent marker. Apart from the mandatory PFD, the following items are optional, but recommended:

Sun protection: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses (filtered, w/ UV protection), lip balm.

Appropriate dress. Warm clothes on cool days. Light, but protective clothes on warm days. Keep in mind you might get wet! Quick-drying shorts or pants work well. It may also be a good idea to keep a change of clothes and a dry towel with your car or bike.

Water (or other drink) to keep you hydrated while on the lake.

Deck shoes. These should be non-marking shoes with good traction.

Sailing gloves. Gloves help protect your hands from rope burns. Paddling or cycling gloves can also be used.

Dry bag. A small waterproof bag to keep keys and phones dry. Secure storage on shore is hard to come by, so you probably don’t want to bring any personal items that you can’t keep with you on the boat.

Bad weather. Inclement weather may force the club to cancel Club sailing. This can happen on days with too little wind, too much wind, or especially lightning. Bear in mind that the weather on the lake can be very different from weather in other parts of town. Conditions will be assessed at the dock before club sailing begins, and the decision whether or not the club will sail will be made and announced in person at the dock.

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Roles & Responsibilities

Dock Captain – overall coordinator during club sailing; assigns skippers and crew to boats; assesses safety and weather conditions; ensures boats are on correct buoys at end of sailing.

Shore Team: First Mate – greets people as they arrive; facilitates sign-in; coordinates volunteers to assist Dock Captain or Second Mate; handles paperwork; answers questions.

Shore Team: Second Mate – manages traffic to and from the dock; coordinates tenders and boat retrieval; helps train new members on rigging sailboats and rowing tenders.

Skippers – As part of The Deal, club members who have completed the Skipper-Out process volunteer at least twice per month to help teach other members how to sail. Each boat has one skipper, who is responsible for the boat and its crew, and for providing instruction.

Crew – members who have not yet skippered out and are still learning, or experienced skippers who are not serving in the capacity of skipper.

Getting On the Water

Meet at the Lake Harriet boat shed (at the north end of lake by the boat ramp, just east of the band shell). If possible, arrive 15-20 minutes early to help with retrieving boats or other setup duties. Boat assignments are first come, first serve, so sign-in with the Shore Team as soon as you arrive. Don’t forget your PFD!

Club sailing is managed by the Shore Team, as described above. When you are signing in and waiting to be assigned a boat, please be patient. The procedures can seem a little chaotic, but they are the best way we know of to get everyone assigned to boats and on the water.

Crew Members and Learners 1. Sign in on the clipboard. 2. The Dock Captain will assign you to a

boat and direct you to your skipper, or ask you to volunteer for other tasks.

OSS Skippers 1. Report to and sign-in with the Dock

Captain. 2. The Dock Captain will assign you a boat,

and assign your crew as they arrive.

Once you’re assigned to a crew, your skipper will be in charge of directing the next activities. These may begin with some on-shore training, or with bringing your boat from its buoy to the dock and rigging it. Your skipper will work with you to identify sailing skills that you’d like to work on, and may have specific suggestions based on sailing conditions.

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Sailing BasicsSection 3: Sailing Basics

Useful Knots

Knots are very important to a sailor. Securing a boat to a dock, raising the mainsail and rigging the jib sheets are all aspects of sailing that require knots. Sailors may use many other knots, but these four will cover most situations on our boats.

FIGURE 8 KNOT

The Figure 8 knot is used as a “stopper” knot to prevent a line from slipping through a block or fairlead. (See sailing terms.)

SQUARE or REEF KNOT

This knot is used for tying two lines of equal thickness together. Take two lines, tie the right over the left (as one ties a shoe) then do the opposite (i.e. left over right).

BOWLINE

The bowline knot produces a loop that will not slip. The loop is often passed through a grommet or a fitting. It is one of the most common sailing knots. This knot will also undo quite easily even after being placed under considerable strain.

ZIPPER KNOT

In our club we use this knot to secure the rolled mainsail to the boom AND to stow the main sheet where it will stay dry. When done correctly, it is simple to untie the end knot and “unzip” the mainsheet when preparing to rig a boat.

It consists of a series of loops, one inside the other, using the main sheet, starting with a loop around the boom rest, and continuing forward along the boom, securing the rolled sail, ending with a simple knot such as a half hitch.

CLEAT HITCH

The cleat hitch is used to tie a boat painter to a horn cleat on the dock or tender. It is also used to secure the halyard to the cleat at the base of the mast. This knot is easily tied and untied. To learn to finish this knot smoothly, pay attention to and practice the correct way to twist the rope to form the last loop that you will place over the horn, as shown in the bottom illustration.

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Sailing Terms

DirectionsPort - The left side of the boat when facing forward.Starboard - The right side of the boat when facing forward.Bow – The fore (front) part of a boat.Stern – The after (back) part of a boat.Windward (or Weather) side – Toward the wind.Leeward – Away from the wind.

Types of BoatsScow – A flat-bottomed boat with a blunt bow. The Sailing Club scows are racing boats with two bilge boards (also called side boards) that provide the function of a keel. Daysailer – Typically, an open boat without sleeping accommodations. The Sailing Club daysailers have a mainsail and jib, have benches that can hold 4 to 5 people and one centerboard that keeps the boat from slipping sideways in the wind.Keelboat – A boat with a heavy keel running underneath. The keel works like a centerboard to keep the boat from slipping sideways, and its weight helps counteract the force of the wind on the sails, keeping the boat upright.Tender – A small rowboat used to bring sailboats from a buoy to the dock and back.

Parts of a Sail (for triangular sails)Head – The top corner of a sail.Tack – The corner at the bottom of the leading edge of a sail.Clew – The corner at the bottom of the trailing edge of a sail.Luff – The leading edge of a sail. A sail is said to be “luffing” when it flutters near the leading edge.Leech – The trailing edge of a sail.Foot – The bottom edge of a sail.Batten – A piece of stiff material inserted on a sail’s leech to help it keep an efficient shape.

Sail ControlsHalyard – A line that pulls (hauls) a sail up.Unfurl – To raise (haul) or unroll a sail.Furl – To take down a sail or roll it up.Sheet – A line that pulls a sail in or lets it out.Ease - To adjust the sail position by letting the sheet out.Trim - To adjust the sail position by pulling the sheet tighter.Telltales – Pieces of ribbon, string or recording tape that are attached to the sail or the stays to indicate the direction of the apparent wind.Vang (boom vang) – A line that pulls down on the boom.Cunningham – The line that pulls down on the sail near the mast.Outhaul – The line that pulls the sail out toward the end of the boom.Reef – To tie off the bottom part of a sail to make it smaller, to keep high wind from overpowering the boat.

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Sailing BasicsHardware

Block – A pulley through which lines pass.Fairlead - A fitting that guides a line to another piece of hardware.Stays – Wire ropes which keep the mast in place. On Sailing Club boats, these include the forestay and side-stays. Side-stays are also called shroudsKeel – A fin-like structure on the bottom of a sailboat that counteracts the force of the wind on the sails to provide stability in motion. Cleat – A fixture used to secure a line. A horn cleat has two arms protruding from it which a line can be wrapped around and secured with a cleat hitch. A cam cleat has two spring-loaded “jaws” that grab a line to keep it in place. A jam cleat has a v-shaped opening that a line can be “jammed” into to keep it in place.

Points of SailClose hauled - Sailing the boat upwind as close to the wind as possible. Sails are pulled in tight.Pinch - Sailing upwind so close to the wind that the sail luffs.Reaching - Sailing with the wind coming over the side of the boat. Sails are let out until almost luffing.Running - Sailing with wind coming over the stern of the boat. Sails are let out until the boom almost touches the side stay.In Irons - When the boat is pointing directly towards the wind and is stopped or even moving backwards slowly.Apparent wind – The combination of the actual wind and the boat’s motion. Sailing upwind, the apparent wind is higher than the true wind; on a run, the apparent wind will be lower.

ManeuveringFall off (bear off; bear away) - To turn the bow away from the wind.Head Up - To turn the bow toward the wind. Tack (come about) - When sailing upwind, to turn the boat’s bow through the wind, so that the wind comes over the other side of the boat.Jibe (or Gybe) - When sailing downwind, turning the stern of the boat through the wind so that the wind comes over the other side of the boat.Port Tack - When the wind is coming over the left side of the sailboat. The sail will be on the right or starboard side.Starboard tack - When the wind is coming over the right side of the sailboat. The sail will be on the left or port side.Beating to windward - Sailing a zigzag course upwind by making a series of tacks.Sailing by the Lee – Sailing on a run with the wind coming over the stern from the same side as the boom (danger of jibing).Heel – To lean the boat to the side due to the force of the wind on the sails.Hike – To lean one’s body over the side of the sailboat to counteract heeling.Capsize – To tip over a sailboat onto its side.Turtle (or turn turtle) – To turn the boat completely upside-down, with the mast pointing toward the bottom of the lake.Backwind – To force a sail to the windward side of the boat, often by pushing the boom to windward, or by tacking without adjusting the jibFeather – Close hauled, to head up carefully until luffing occurs and then fall off until it stops

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Points of Sail

The “points of sail” refer to the position of the boat in relation to the wind. The Sailing Club identifies three primary points of sail: close hauled, reach,

and run.

Close hauled - Close hauled is as close to the wind as a sailboat can sail. A boat is considered to be sailing close hauled when the bow is 45 degrees or less from the wind. At this point of sail, the sails of the boat should be sheeted all the way in; the boat will probably tilt to one side, also known as “heeling”. The telltale on the shroud opposite from the mainsail will be pointing mostly towards the stern, with a slight inclination towards the mainsail.

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Sailing BasicsIf the boat heels farther than you are comfortable, “sheet out” or “head up”. That is, let out the main sheet or turn the boat slightly toward the wind.

The term “beating” refers to sailing up wind by tacking, from one close-hauled position to another. This maneuver makes a zigzag pattern across the lake.

Reach - A reach is a middle-ground point of sail. As noted in the diagram above, there are three kinds of reaches: close, beam and broad. Your sails should be let out partway, but not all the way out, and you will probably not heel very much. The telltale opposite from the mainsail will point towards the mainsail. On a broad reach, the telltale will point squarely towards the mainsail.

This point of sail works very well for beginners, and a broad reach is (arguably) the fastest point of sail for the scows.

Run - A run is when the wind is blowing from behind the boat. This point of sail is also referred to as “sailing downwind”. A boat is considered to be on a run when it is roughly 155 degrees to 180 degrees from the wind. With the wind at your back, the sails should be let out all the way. On a boat with a jib, you can sail “wing on wing”, the only point of sail to have the jib and main on opposite sides of the boat. A run is a safe point of sail, but you should be careful not to allow an accidental jibe…

Rigging & De-rigging

To “rig” a boat is simply to make it ready to sail. A boat’s rigging includes the lines and wire ropes keeping the sail, mast and boom in place, and includes some colorful jargon. You will eventually learn to adjust the rigging on any boat in the club.

Before rigging a boat:1. Assess conditions to determine if it is safe and manageable to row a boat from a buoy to the

dock. If it’s safe…2. Row out to the boat and tow it back to the dock. Don’t leave tenders tied to buoys.

Rigging the boat:1. Remove the cover, stow it in the forward hull compartment (Capri) or in the aft corner (MC)

get out the jib sail (if applicable).2. Safety check: Do you have a:

Bailer? Paddle? Throw-able flotation device? PFD for everyone on board?

3. Do a “once-over”: Is there excessive water in the hull? (If so, bail it.) Is anything obviously broken? (If so, report it.) Is it dirty? (If so, clean it. This includes bird poop and muddy footprints)

4. Undo the zipper knot on the mainsail. Unroll the sail. Find the head of the sail.5. Loosen the main sheet (you need a lot of slack!), boom vang, outhaul, Cunningham.6. Attach the halyard to the head of the mainsail.7. Raise the mainsail. 8. Attach the Cunningham. (MC)9. Adjust the outhaul, boom vang, and Cunningham. (MC)10. Raise the jib sail, if applicable. Ready the jib sheets.

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11. Make sure the rudder is down and free of weeds.

12. Lower the cradle to free the tiller.13. Stow all free lines, covers, and

personal belongings away, so they stay dry and stay out of your way.

14. Put the board(s) down.15. Plan your path of leaving the dock.

Communicate with your crew.

De-rigging the boat:1. Raise the cradle and stow the

tiller. (MC), be sure that bailers are closed (on the MCs)

2. Loosen the outhaul, boom vang, and Cunningham (MC)

3. Lower the mainsail. Rest the boom in the cradle. (MC)

4. Unhook the Cunningham from the mainsail.5. Roll the mainsail and secure with the zipper knot.6. Stow lines out of the water by draping loosely over the boom.7. Raise the boards8. Remove all personal belongings from the boat.9. Put the cover back on.10. Attach flags to keep birds away (MC) Raise the rudder (Capri’s)

Leaving the Dock

Assess Conditions: Prior to rowing out to get the boat with the tender, assess conditions. This includes evaluating:

1. Wind speed (Is the wind too strong? Look at the flags.)2. Weather (Are there thunderstorms in the forecast?)3. Waves (Are there whitecaps? Is the lake calm?)4. Ability of the crew (Have they sailed before?)5. Appropriateness of the boat you intend to sail.

Prior to leaving the dock: Before leaving any environment:1. Locate hazards and dangers around your departure area.2. Plan a route before leaving the dock.3. Plan alternate routes if something were to happen on the original route.

Leaving the dock:1. Once settled in the boat, crew unties boat from dock.2. With the sail luffing, push back from the dock.3. Push the tiller in the direction you want the bow to head.4. Drift away until the bow has swung 45 degrees away from the wind. Then straighten the

tiller, trim the sheets, and sail!

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Sailing BasicsLanding at the Dock

Before landing at the dock, make your plan. Discuss the plan with everyone on board. Look around! Are there other boats arriving/leaving soon?

Your goal: to drift slowly into irons while the boat is pointed directly at the dock, so the boat stops just inches away from the dock.

1. Sail for a point two or three boat lengths downwind of the dock.2. Furl the jib sail, especially if on a roller furling.3. Luff the mainsail to lose momentum. Trim and ease the main sheet to speed up or slow

down your approach.4. When directly downwind of the dock, turn into the wind and loosen all sheets.5. Lose momentum and drift towards the dock.6. A crew member will grab the painter and step onto the dock.

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In the diagram below, Figure B shows a good landing. Figure C shows a landing that is too cautious. (The boat goes into irons before reaching the dock.) Figure D shows a landing that is too bold. Don’t do this! People could get hurt, and the boat and dock will take a beating.

Slowing and Stopping

There are safer alternatives to going into irons if you need to stop your boat in the middle of the water. Knowing how to stop your boat is an important part of being safe on the water, and is useful when changing skippers, picking up a man overboard, taking a moment to speak with the crew, or just catching your breath.

Heaving To: Heaving to the best way to stop a larger boat, and also works for the daysailers with jibs that we sail at TCSC. To heave to, tack the boat but do not pass the jib (starboard tack preferred for right-of-way). Let the mainsail out and help it luff over the lee side of the boat. Keep the tiller pushed to leeward. The tiller and the backed jib will balance each other out when a boat is hove to. Heaving to is a great technique to use when you want to reef your mainsail while on the lake.

Safety Position: The safety position is an alternative to heaving to, often taught for dinghy sailing. It can be used with any of our sailboats. To execute the safety position, head to a close haul (starboard tack preferred for right-of-way), Ease the main sheet to let your sail luff, and push your tiller slightly to lee (toward the sail) to keep the boat pointed to a close reach. You may release the tiller without changing course. The safety position is the final step of the man-overboard drill.

Heave To Safety Position

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Sailing BasicsRight of Way Rules

1. A port tack vessel should keep clear of a starboard tack vessel.

2. A windward vessel shall keep clear of a leeward vessel.

3. A vessel clear astern shall keep clear of a vessel clear ahead. Any vessel overtaking another shall keep clear.

4. A vessel tacking or jibing shall keep clear of a vessel on a tack.

5. When two vessels are tacking or jibing at the same time, the one on the other's port side shall keep clear.

6. A vessel under way shall keep clear of one anchored.

7. Sailboats must give way to fishing boats that are fishing, as well as canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, rowboats, rafts, and tenders.

Tacking (Coming About)

Tacking is the way in which a boat can get to a point directly upwind from its current position. The actual procedure of tacking is when a boat on one tack (port for example), passes its bow through the wind until the sails fill on the other side (to a starboard tack). Tacking is a simple process, but to ensure the safety of both the skipper and the crew there are five steps to follow.

Steps to Tack:1. The helmsman looks around to ensure there is enough room

to execute the tack.2. The helmsman alerts the crew by calling “Ready about!”3. The crew replies “Ready!” For safety, all crew should clear

themselves of any lines or obstacles before responding.4. The helmsman will then call "Tacking!” or “Hard-a-lee!”, and

push the tiller towards the mainsail to turn the bow into the wind.

5. On a boat with a jib, the crew releases the jib sheet on the leeward side. Then, as the boat assumes its position on the opposite tack, the crew trims the jib sheet on other side.

The helmsman is responsible for controlling the mainsheet and the tiller during the tack.

Tacking is a relatively safe maneuver compared to jibing.

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Jibing (or Gybing)

Jibing occurs as a boat travels away from the wind (downwind), as opposed to tacking where the boat travels into the wind. Jibing is also different from tacking in that when jibing, the stern of the boat crosses through the wind - not the bow.

During a jibe, the skipper and the crew must be careful to

communicate with one another. They must also keep their heads low, doubly so on an MC. Due to the nature of a jibe, it is not always possible to control the movement of the boom. For this reason, the crew and skipper should be aware of where the wind is coming from and how the boom is behaving.

Steps to Jibe:1. The skipper should steer the boat so that the boat sails by the lee.2. The skipper alerts the crew by calling “Ready to Jibe!”3. The crew replies “Ready!” when they are ready.4. The skipper calls “Jibe Ho!” to indicate that the boat is jibing. The skipper pushes the tiller

slightly away from the mainsail so that the stern of the boat passes through the wind.5. Then, in a controlled manner, the skipper uses the mainsheet (grabbing all of the lines above

the block) to pull the boom over to the other side.6. The crew frees the jib sheet on the leeward side of the sailboat, and then trims the jib sheet on

the other side of the boat.

Beware! When the wind is coming over the same side of the boat the mainsail is on, you are sailing by the lee. At this point an accidental jibe is possible. This dangerous point of sail should be avoided by executing a controlled jibe as soon as possible, or by steering the boat to head up. Waves, wind shifts, even crew moving around the cockpit can make a boat jibe when sailing by the lee. Keep a close eye on the wind and keep the weight on the boat distributed evenly. Communicate! Watch the wind! Keep your head low!

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Sailing BasicsIn and Out of Irons

When the boat is pointed straight into the wind, it is said to be “in irons” – the boat slow to a stop, losing its ability to steer. Stopped In Irons is not to be confused with the Safety Position which is executed from a close hauled point of sail.

Getting in to Irons

1. Loosen the sails, point the boat into the wind, and drift.

2. Practice until you have the feel for how long a boat will keep its momentum in different conditions.

Getting out of Irons

Steps for getting out of irons are similar to those for leaving the dock.

1. As the boat drifts backwards, push the tiller in the direction you wish the boat to go. This causes the bow of the boat to move away from the wind.

2. Drift backwards until the sail fills. Sheet in and sail away!

3. It may also help to “backwind” the sail. Grab the boom and pull it to the “wrong” side of the boat, to try to catch some wind.

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Man Overboard Rescue Procedure

The man overboard (MOB) procedure applies in a number of situations, including rescuing somebody in the water, recovering equipment that was dropped overboard, or retrieving a hat that has blown away. The steps are as follows:

1. If a

person overboard does not have a life jacket, immediately throw one. 2. If available, designate a crew member to spot the person or object in the water. This person

should not take their eyes off the target, and should point to the target so that the skipper knows where to sail.

3. If the skipper is sailing alone, sail with only the mainsail. Furl the jib or let it flog.4. Immediately sail on a beam reach, heading away from the MOB. Resist the urge to turn back

right away; it’s easier and safer to allow room to maneuver.5. Head up to a close hauled point of sail and prepare to tack.6. Tack. Continue bearing away and head down to a deep broad reach.7. Cross your reach wake line until you are downwind from the MOB. As soon as the MOB is aft of

your beam, head up to a close reach. Approach the victim on a course of approximately 60 degrees off the wind.

8. Luff your sails and approach the MOB at the minimum speed necessary to maintain steerage. If you need more power, trim the mainsail appropriately.

9. Establish contact with the victim on the leeward side of the boat.

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Sailing BasicsCapsizing

The Day Sailors are self-bailing – if you capsize and right them, they drain without any effort on your part. The Scows are not self-bailing. In most cases, you either recover a scow virtually dry or you will need to bail it.

1. When capsizing is imminent, get out of the boat immediately to prevent it from swamping or turtling (which makes recovery nearly impossible). Avoid leaning on the boat while it is on its side. Stay with the boat. Do not swim to shore.

2. The Skipper should call out each crew member’s name: “Are you ok? Do you have a PFD?”3. The skipper will assign and direct crew to various tasks:

a) Crew at cockpit will loosen all sheets, release the boom vang, ensure all boards are down. b) Crew at the bow can use the painter to turn the boat into the wind. The boat should be in

irons when it comes up, to keep it from sailing away without the crew.c) Crew at mast head will ensure that the mast does not sink. If there is no float on the mast,

consider attaching a PFD or floating cushion to the head of the sail. Crew at the mast can also help swing the boat so that the bow points into the wind.

d) Crew or skipper will apply downward pressure on the boards. On an MC, stand on the lower board and hang on to the upper one. An MC will usually recover quickly. A C-boat often requires two people on the boards and possibly one lifting the mast.

4. The boat will come slowly come upright. Maintain the boat in irons while all of the crew scrambles in.

5. Reset sails, bail out the cockpit, and sail away.

It may not be this easy!

If the boat turtles (turns entirely upside down), you may need outside help to right it. Call for help; wave your arms to attract other boaters. An anchor rope thrown over the side may assist in pulling a turtled boat onto its side. Using the halyard to pull the masthead up to the surface is another method that may be successful.

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Section 4: Racing

Got a Need for Speed?

Through a long-established affiliation with the Lake Harriet Yacht Club (LHYC), our members can participate in MC scow races. LHYC has been around since 1941 and organizes the races and regattas on the lake. TCSC members can participate in one of three ways:

1. Skipper in a race2. Crew in a race3. Safety boat

How Do I Get Involved?

Skipper – If you are a club skipper, you can join the races by taking the racing assessment and racing quiz test. Once you have passed, you will be issued a score number. Your score number is used to keep track of your score across races over the course of the season. Email racing@tcsailing.com for info.

Racing Crew – If you want to do more than just watch the race, volunteer to be crew; racers are always looking for crew. As crew, you are usually expected to work the side boards, balance the boat, and give the skipper tactical information. If you are interested in being a crew person, contact the Racing Coordinator or members of the Lake Harriet Yacht Club.

Safety Boat – The easiest way to get out on the water during races is to hop in the safety boat. In the safety boat (a motor boat) your job is to watch the race. If any boats capsize, you ask if they need assistance, and provide assistance if necessary. In addition, you act as a ferry for the racers before and after the race. LHYC offers safety boat training once a year and all TCSC members are welcome.

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RacingWhen Are the Races?

Weekends: Races are held on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the season, May to September.

Two races are held on Saturdays; the first begins at 1:00 pm. From start of the first race to the finish of the second race is usually 2-3 hours. There is one race on Sunday that begins at 10:30 am. Monday holiday races begin at 10:30 am. From start to finish the race is often just over an hour long.

Wednesday nights: Informal racing is held on Wednesday nights, starting at 6:30, June through August. There are usually three or four short races. Races are typically 20-30+ minutes each. Wednesday night races are typically followed by a social gathering at a local food/drink establishment.

Fun2SailFast Program: for New and Returning Racers

Fun2SailFast is TCSC’s spring racing “how-to” and practice program, offering orientation and training for sailors new to racing. It also helps returning racers prepare for the coming season by reviewing basic strategy, rules and techniques. All Twin Cities Sailing Club members are invited to join the F2SF program and are encouraged to race all summer.

Fun2SailFast – Pre-season Racing Orientations: Feb-AprilIn winter/early spring months we prepare for the coming racing season with informal seminars for learning and improving racing skills and techniques.

Fun2SailFast – On-Water Practice and F2SF Challenge: Wednesdays in MayPractice: On Wednesday nights during May it’s time to practice, practice, practice! Beginners and returning racers do starting drills and practice power-ups, boat handling, up-wind legs, buoy roundings, and lots more.

So, you wanna race, crew or work on the safety boat? Get more information or sign up for training. Email the Racing Coordinator at racing@tcsailing.com.

How Do I Get A Racing Score Number?1. Join TCSC and become a club skipper. 2. Crew in a Race* 3. Complete the On-Water Assessment:* Rig a boat solo at a buoy; solo buoy departure and

landing; solo sail rolling and de-rigging at buoy; In-irons (30 seconds); 4. Read the LHYC Sailing Instructions www.lhycsailing.com/racinginfo5. Take the TCSC racing quiz. This is an open-book quiz (you may complete it at home, and

bring the finished race to the dock). 6. Get Your Racing Score Number. Obtained from the TCSC racing coordinator.

* Can be completed during F2SF On-water Practice in May.

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Racing & Financial Responsibility

Participating in racing is an activity separate and different from typical club sailing. As part of choosing to participate in racing, you understand and acknowledge that racers are responsible for any "at fault" damage (as determined by the racing rules) caused to a Club boat for which they are acting as skipper, or to the boat or property of another racing participant. The Club, at its sole discretion, may elect to submit an insurance claim for such boat or property damage, and if so, you agree, as a racing skipper, to be responsible for any deductibles and insurance-related costs.

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Appendix: TCSC Suggested Reading List

There are many great books written about sailing, all with differing strengths. If you want to read more on how to sail, beyond what is contained in this manual, the following are some texts our club members recommend.

There are also a number of books on tuning and performance that someone interested in racing might look for.

Start Sailing Right! By Mark Smith and Derrick Fries (U.S. Sailing small boat certification series.)

Covers all aspects of small sailboat instruction in an easy-to-read, non-intimidating format. The book is 100+ pages and amply illustrated. Recommended to anyone who knows little or nothing about sailing, this is a book that can be read relatively quickly, yet tells the reader everything he/she needs to know to get started.

Invitation to Sailing by Alan Brown

The Complete Sailor by David Seidman

A great companion for the lifelong sailor. This book has great information to help you get started on boat of any size, but also cover everything you need to know to start cruising. Great hand drawn illustrations.

The Twin Cities Sailing Club Instructor’s Manual by Peter Lockhttps://sites.google.com/a/tcsailing.com/tcsc/instruction

“Your First Sail” Online exercise; American Sailing Association (ASA) Online Courses website http://asa.com/online-courses/ (web search for: “ASA your first sail”) To improve your knowledge and understanding of the basics of sailing take this simple and informative course until you can get a perfect score.

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