Basics

-What does bowman do?

At the Line

-Calling the line
-Keep clear
-Timing
-Communication

Windward Mark

Starboard approach
-Bearaway set
-Jibe set

Port approach
-Bearaway set
-Jibeset (acrobatics)

Jibing

-Rule of Thumb

Leeward Mark

-Leeward douse
-Windward douse
-Mexican takedown
-Stretch and Blow

Peels

Jib peel
-Inside
-Outside

Spinnaker
-Dip pole
-HOT WIRE

Climbing

One responsibility of the bowperson during pre-start and start is to keep the boat clear of the line and inform crew and helmsman about right-of-way traffic. While helmsman can usually see over a crew crowded cockpit and responsibility of looking forward is on bowman's shoulders. He or she becomes the eyes of the boat. The bowman must make their own judgments about situations behind the sails (that the helmsman may not be able to see). They must recognize potential collision courses, assess the intentions of other boats and, at all times, communicate with their helmsman and crew (and crew on other boats if necessary).
It is crucial for bowmen to know "Racing Rules of Sailing" and specifically right of way and overlap rules. These rules often become utilized during the start of a sailboat race and also become the content of many protests. Bowman should also have basic tactical knowledge to help the helmsman to get the boat in the right place on the start line. The bowperson must discuss strategy with the helmsman and tactician before they enter the starting area about their strategy, decide who to cover, which end of the line is favored and where they should start, etc. A clear understanding between helmsman and the bowman will help win the start. Any misunderstanding could not only lose the start but could lead to injury, collision or disqualification.

During the start of Port Huron-Mackinac Race 2001, DECISION (Andrews 70) ran into INSATABLE (Nelson/Marek 50), taking out a piece of her transom. After sailing 283 miles and breaking the existing elapsed time record, DECISION was disqualified. http://www.byc.com/

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