A B14 Project for P&B and Race Saving Tips!

by Ben McGrane, P&B 2 Feb 2014 15:51 GMT 2 February 2014

A BI4 PROJECT FOR P&B!

After this years success at the B14 Europeans & Worlds I made a big step by deciding to get my own boat...cue 'Lucille' my new Ovington built B14. Each week we will be giving you a quick run down of what developments and changes we make to give you a little insight into how we produce championship winning boats. Sign Up to the P&B South weekly newsletter or Like us on Facebook and stay up to date with Lucilles progress!

RACE SAVING TIPS FROM P&B SOUTH

Last weekend while out practising in the International 14 we were going upwind and had the sudden realisation that the leeward cap wire was no longer attached to the boat, no serious gear failure but the pin and ring that attached it was simply no longer there!

We always carry a few spare bits for these instances where no matter how much time you spend on your boat, something breaks.

A quick rummage through my buoyancy aid pocket and we had another pin in place and we were off again. This got me thinking, we have had a few things like this in the past few years and always fixed it on the water without losing a race. Last year at Castle Cove open James took a tumble on the jib cleat and snapped it in two, I had to hold the sheet for the next two laps but then between races with a metre of rope we managed to lash it together well enough for the next two races. Another slightly more serious one was finding that in Roger Gilbert’s 14 on POW race day the kicker was trapped under the centre kick bar we had removed the night before. While I steered Roger removed the bolts with a multi tool on the water and we made the start of the race going on to win it.

So with this in mind and some fast approaching championships I thought I would put a list together of must have bits for on the water, nothing major but a few key bits can save your race and championship!

We always carry the following in our buoyancy aid or hatch bag.

Pins and split rings
Electric Tape
Gerber multi tool and knife (I carry both)
5mm Shackle
30mm block
2m 4mm rope
2m 4mm shockcord

Hatch bags are brilliant as they normally allow enough room for a spray top and hat to be carried without them getting wet and heavy!

Thinking of maximum potential this year, there is still time to get your boat into the workshop for those few hull and foil scratches and dings along with a full polish. Top teams in the RS200, Flying 15 and International 14 are all taking advantage of our expertise, why not give us a call this week to discuss the services we are offering?

MICRON 2 ANTIFOULING PAINT 2.5L!

£89.95
Normal Price: £126.88
You Save: £36.93 (29%)

Micron Extra 2 is a high strength polishing antifouling that provides 2 seasons protection from just one application

GILL INSHORE WINTER JACKET

£126.00
Normal Price: £140.00
You Save: £14.00 (10%)

The Inshore Winter Jacket features zoned insulation keeping the warmth where you need it, protected by a fully taped hydrophobic waterproof shell. This jacket locks out the elements, making it perfect for cold weather sailing.

GILL NEOPRENE SOCKS100

£14.40
Normal Price: £16.00
You Save: £1.60 (10%)

Gill Neoprene socks provide warmth when and where you need it most. They can be worn on their own or over latex socks for added insulation. A must have when sailing this winter!