How to avoid the situation in the first place

Avoiding a broach isn’t always easy, especially if you are pushing for extra performance while racing. Knowing your limits is one way but ensuring you have the best information on the boat will also help.

Good, well-rehearsed crew drills in breezy conditions are important. Try to practice as much as possible so the entire crew knows exactly what to do in the event of strong winds in a racing situation.

The kite trimmer can often prevent the broach but it is important that the helmsman and trimmer are in constant dialogue to gauge the limits. The two should be discussing the pressure on the spinnaker sheet and on the rudder and, when required, calling for that allimportant ease.

Nominate a crew member to call the breeze. This person needs to keep an eye on the breeze as it approaches across the water, as well as around the racetrack, and communicate their observations clearly.

The better this information is, the more likely the helmsman and trimmer are to pre-empt the broach. Indeed, if the spotter can see more wind coming down the course, it may even lead to a spinnaker drop, or a delayed hoist

Gathering a good weather forecast at the start of the day is also key. In squally conditions it is important to check the radar to see where the showers are and how intense they appear. You can also check observations of places where the showers have already traversed to see how strong the wind speeds have been, which may then influence your decision. Interview by Sue Pelling