if you are into speed, knowing one's velocity made good is an
important metric (both upwind and downwind). historically dinghies
have not had the telemetry to inform a sailor of their VMG (but this
is an essential tool for larger forms of sit down sailing).
a small company has made a simple and compact device that tells one
their VMG based on two inputs: the location of the leeward and
windward mark. this device can be used on virtually any dinghy (or
even windsurfers for that matter).
while i believe this device is strictly illegal for racing a dinghy,
it can be helpful to use during practice or training to gain insights
on how much one should foot, pinch, what angles going downwind are
fastest, etc.
more info available here: http://www.velocitekspeed.com/products.php?
p=s5
they also have a great explanation of what VMG is.
respectfully submitted,
bryan mcdonald
us sailing appeals committee member
p.s. i'm not affiliated in any way with velocitek but am sharing
information on this new device as a potential training aid for the
benefit of our beloved sport of sailing.
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