3 Best Practices for Pinging the Start Line

In this post, we review simple rules to ensure accurate GPS fixes at both ends of the starting line using the Pathfinder Sailing App. Before the race begins, you need to sail past the start line endpoints and ‘ping’ the exact coordinates so your app can compute the distance and speed needed to the line at the start of the race. You can use either Pathfinder Plan for this: the Plus Plan uses your instrument GPS for maximum accuracy, and the Basic Plan uses your iPhone GPS.

Assuming an upwind start, approach the line ends close-hauled and on the starboard tack. You want to be close-hauled for two reasons:

• Line ends can be congested with other boats and you want the right-of-way
• You can control your speed more accurately than if you are reaching or running down the line

Position your bow person on the bow.

1. Approach the start line ends slowly. The slower you go, the more accurate your ping will be.
2. Approach the line with a steady heading. If you are turning the boat while you ping, the GPS will be less accurate.
3. You will usually want to pass close to the buoy’s outside (away from the other starting end) so your bow person can sight down both ends of the line for the most accurate ping.

After getting your start line pings, be sure to keep an eye on the race committee boats to make sure they don’t move either end which will require re-pinging!