This weekend i set out to learn to heli tack. After a lot of swimming i pulled a few off in lighter winds, BUT in slightly stronger winds, (and i mean slightly stronger , F2max) the second i pull the sail across my body and become back winded the wind just forces the sail onto me and knocks me off the board! Its exactly the same problem i have when i`m trying to sail back winded. I just dont seem to be able to hold the sail vertical yet not let it push me off the board!



Any help, or advice?



Chris

Lean The Mast into the wind more and don't push with your backhand

yeah, the trick is to control the power of the sail with your backhand, then it doesn´t throw you off the board any more...

ahh i c, i think thats the problem, i`m pushin the sail square to the wind with the back hand, meaning more power in the sale to push me off! If you dont push out with the back hand you will spill more wind and have less power! is that the idea?



I`ll have a go next time i`m out!

Chris

BIG TOP TIP!!!!



Keep your front arm STRAIGHT as this this will let your back hand sheet out when you pull it toward yourself.



Try and stop the the rotation for a split second clew first to stop the rig from falling to the back of the board.



punch foward to keep the rig upright, keep your head up and look where you are about to go NOT at your feet or hands!

Windy John, your top tip was great!!!!! I tried it today, i was using a new 7.3 niel p sail tho so i was finding controling the sail full stop difficult as it was the first time out (previously been learning on a 5.7). However i still had way more control and i`m sure to pull them off easier with a bit of practice!!