The major reasons that all of the versions of the J/29 are better in light air is the lower displacement and larger sail area, improving the sail area to displacement ratio. The J/30 isn't going to compete well with higher performance boats typical of newer designs, however, against reasonably similar boats, optimizing what you have is your best bet. Pulling off unnecessary gear and supplies, 0.5 oz spinnaker, lightweight 163% genoa, clean and smooth bottom, etc. One final item is the keel shape vs J/30 keel templates.

GL,

-Chris