Training

Time on the water practicing is seldom wasted, however ‘training’ may well take you to the next level a lot quicker, and get those nagging questions (or some of them) answered on the spot.

The Dart 18 only has 4 bits of rope that you can pull, and the uncomplicated set-up is one of its main attractions. So how is it that some of the fleet can pull their bits of rope so much better than you, and make their boat so much faster than yours?

During the season UKIDA would like to arrange at least 2 sets of official training, and hopefully a little additional race coaching at some events.

In-Event Race Coaching

The idea of having some sort of on the water coaching at some events has been discussed and is, in principle, something that UKIDA would like to follow up.

This would be aimed at the tail end of the fleet and open to all those boats towards the rear. It would offer handy hints on obvious areas that crews could improve in, as well as providing a sounding board on what possible tactics could be changed. This would be run from a patrol rib, and advice would be given when practical, bearing in mind the need not to impinge on other members of the fleet, or to stop the rib carrying out its other duties.

This is still a ‘work in progress’, but if you happen to be reading this as a past mid- to top-end sailor, and you would be willing to offer advice to those at the back of the fleet, then please get in touch and we will see what can be done.

Club Coaching

Over the last few years several clubs have got groups of members together to arrange their own training days. These seem to have proved both popular and productive, and are often done hiring Windsport coaches on a club basis. Please, also feel free to talk to UKIDA about any coaching needs you might have as a club, and we will see if we can help.

Please contact us if you are interested in some Dart18 coaching