Too light for a GP14?

Conchir

Hey everyone.

I sail a mirror, but I'm getting a bit too heavy for it now and I'm looking to move into something a bit bigger. GP14's are the most popular class in my club for racing, so that would be ideal. However, combined helm and crew weight would only be around 18 stone with my current crew. Is that too light, or would we manage? Also, I've never sailed a GP, is it difficult to move into?

Thanks guys

murphym7

Conchir wrote: »

Hey everyone.

I sail a mirror, but I'm getting a bit too heavy for it now and I'm looking to move into something a bit bigger. GP14's are the most popular class in my club for racing, so that would be ideal. However, combined helm and crew weight would only be around 18 stone with my current crew. Is that too light, or would we manage? Also, I've never sailed a GP, is it difficult to move into?

Thanks guys

Optimum weight of helm and crew: 120-150kg: you would be coming in on light side. Racing in light airs you will have an advantage - heavier airs above force 4 and above you might struggle a bit. I would go for it though, eat more burgers and you will be grand! They are a lovely boat to sail, don't be afraid of it.

Conchir

Thanks, I'm gonna go for it. Hopefully it just means I'll have to hike hard for a season or two

mr_plow

This has the crew weights for the top10 in the UK nats this year

http://gp14nationals.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/2011-Gear-Guide1.pdf

I started in GPs this year, great people, great events, great racing. Like any boats, the basics are the same, crew work is the most important thing to get right.

I would definitely recommend goign for it.

Stuboyovo

Conchir, how are you getting on in gp's? I hope you're having a ball, I raced GP's throughout my teens and 20's, best craic ever.