Bill,
When you get everything going the J/30 is fantastic when the it really starts blowing. First at 18-20 you should not have to reef - I know that is hard to belive but with a frac rig it is possible.
Here is what I have found to work:
Tons of backstay. When it is going to be windy we shorten the backstay for the most effect and then crank it down so it is level with the stern pulpit.
The other real important thing going upwind is to point very high. The J/30 has a great groove when the wind is cranking like that and she can out point nearly everyone. Just keep sailing higher until the boat starts to flatten out, suddly it will click into a nice groove that is very balanced. And then work to keep it up there and drive the waves. To get there you will need a bunch of leach tension on the main so it is very flat, also there may be a big bubble near the mast but as long as the back part of the main is driving you are good (does not look pretty but it works). And have someone ready on the main to dump it because you will not be able to crack off with out easing the main.
Also if the jib and main do not feel balanced, check that your blocks are in the correct spot.
And also what red said - big butts on the rail!
Hope this helps.
David
#387
