[Rhodes22-list] Gaff Rig

[Christine Allison]

> Gaff rigs seem to be popular in Britain, but you are right, they are not
> used on America Cup boats.>

The focus in sailboat racing today is going to windward.  For that reason
(because of their very long tack) Bermuda rig mainsails completely dominate.
As Roger pointed out it's elementary aerodynamics.

On other points of sail a gaff is at no particular disadvantage and on a run
is (arguably) superior.

It's interesting to look at photos of older gaff rigged racing boats.  They
carried enormous amounts of sail.  Much more then an equivalent sized boat
today.

Richard Smith