I feel like posting a somewhat silly post in a thread dedicated to performance. This is performance of another kind.
The configuration of our kite spot in Bali requires the foilers to board drag clear of the boats, buoys and anchor lines
in front of the beach.
I've been working on improving my technique, both to make it effortless and as efficient as possible going windward. So halfway on my last session, I made a couple of drag-tacks to work out my speed, VMG and polar. I should repeat the exercise over a longer stretch to get a cleaner and more accurate output, obviously.
Approximate results, with Zeeko Alu and FS Race in 10 knots wind:
- top speed: 3 knots
- average speed: 2 knots
- angle to wind: 60 degrees
I'll post a video of the technique, which differs a bit from the one Gunnar shows in his video. I'm holding the board's edge far more forward (in front of the front strap) and my body is against the board, almost belly up. Very comfortable position. No need to paddle the feet to help. You want to hold the board more forward to use the forward wing as a keel AND to prevent it from stalling. Center of pressure somewhere between your front hand and where the body presses on the board, in line with the wing's center of lift.