Re: [bolger] Re: Has anyone modified Surf to take a centreboard instead of a ...

In a message dated 8/21/01 1:38:16 PM Central Daylight Time,
pateson@...writes:


> Centerboards or daggerboards must be properly designed
> or they will to leak and jam. They are also always in the
> way.
>
>

I think centerboards have been overly maligned and feel an obligation to
stick up for them. There are times when even "gentlemen" are unfortunately
obliged to sail upwind. In boats designed with ergonomics compatible with our
gentle dignities, (not a category that includes "Surf", alas) a centerboard
trunk makes a very convenient footrest when the boat displays its
unfortunately unavoidable tendency to heel when sailing to windward. (This
does require relinquishing the tiller to someone else, but this can generally
be done in such a manner as to persuade the innocent unfortunate helmsman
that the bestowing of such a grave responsibility is a mark of grace and
favor.) They also make fine depthfinders and good "lunch-hooks" in
appropriate conditions.

Bill in MN


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]