Play the percentages

Most races aren’t won by bold moves — they’re won by sailors who make high-percentage decisions consistently.

That means:

• Starting in a strong, low-risk spot

• Sailing the lifted tack going to the next mark

• Staying between rivals and the mark

• Avoiding unnecessary corners

Big risks have their place — usually when you’re behind and need to gain. But if you’re near the front, your job is simple: minimise losses and stay in phase.

Over a series, the sailor who avoids poor results often beats the sailor with one race win and several disasters.

Play smart. Stack the small gains. Let the percentages work for you.