Rick wrote:
My boat came set up for racing as I imagine a lot do. Apparently,
because my main is loose footed, I have a clew strap, but I don't know
how to use it correctly.

Would any of you care to explain this to me?


The clew strap goes around the boom. It takes the vertical load from the
leach of the sail and holds the boom closer to the foot than if it was
supported by the outhaul alone. It also allows the outhaul to be eased
have the clew slide a little bit towards the mast, in order to control
the shape (deeper curvature for going downwind or light winds).

Hope this helps.

Fresh Breezes
Doug King