1) One important step is that I run a rope through the outhaul clew of the
main and tie it around the boom. I bring the sail right against the boom and
then secure it using a square knot. I pay attention that this will not bind
up when I have to pull the outhaul to tighten or loosen. Many times I see
fellow Potters sailing with their main 5 or 6 inches away from their boom and
no way can they flatten their main.
2) I run the outhaul through the outhaul fairlead and down to a cleat on the
boom where I can reach it even in high winds. I have a loop on the end of
the line to grab quickly. Make sure that the cleats are in good shape. They
need to be replaced every couple of years or the lines will slip.
3) I run my cunningham, halyards and line to pull down the jib on the edge of
my cabin. Thus I don't have to shift position, stand up or go forward.
There is no reason why I must go forward on the cabin except for anchoring or
to secure the jib after anchoring.
Watch other boats in high winds and notice the good sailors in how they
flatten their main.
Cyrus #629
Bellingham, WA