Larger Spinnaker Trials

Updated January 27, 2000

At the 1997 505 World Championship in Gilleleje, Denmark, the class decided to evaluate larger spinnakers for the 505 class. Due in part to the tight reaches (55-60 degree gybe angle) 505s sail at major events, we have evolved a spinnaker that is rather smaller than the maximum allowed by the class rules.

A number of 505 sailors are interested in a longer luff spinnaker, which would allow us to increase the spinnaker to something approaching the maximum area in the class rules, while retaining an efficient shape.

These spinnakers � if the class votes to adopt them � would be used in conjunction with somewhat broader reaches. Using these spinnakers 505s should also be able to go high and fast on runs at a lower windspeed than the current 16-19 knots with current spinnakers.

• Class President Pip Pearson explains the rationale behind the larger spinnaker evaluation
   
• Proposed Alterations to Spinnaker Dimensions

Reports on larger spinnaker tests:

• Jean-Baptiste Dupont (France) Tests
   
• Tom Bojland (Denmark) Several Test Reports
  • Test 1
  • Test 2
  • Test 3
  • Test 4
  • Test 5
     
  • Discussion about Courses to compliment the larger spinnaker
  • Long Luff Spinnaker Trial VIDEO and photos

• BIG RED � The spinnaker � Bird On A Wire by Graham & Michelle Payn
• Does size matter? by Michael Quirk
• Large Spinnaker report by Dave Porter
• What a day! by Pip Pearson
   
• The Big Spinnaker � The considered opinion of a sceptic by Michael Quirk
• A Race with the Big One by Ali Meller
• Big Spinnaker report by Pip Pearson
• Big Spinnaker report by Dave Porter
• Active discussion thread on the trial spinnaker going