Upwind in a chop [Kevin N.Wales]

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Kevin N.Wales wrote:

Without exception every sail this year at Pen S.C has been in a force 4-5, with a nasty 2-3ft chop. Pen S.C. sailing is always a bit rough, no flat water blasting here.

My upwind sailing skills are a bit crap in these conditions. I'm either dead in the water, or diving into the next wave with sea and spray everywhere. The waves tend to slam into the main beam and stop the boat. What is the best way to keep the boat moving? I tend to drop the traveller and bare away a bit.

We have a marathon race coming up which will involve a long..long beat in these conditions. Any suggestions?

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Bob replied:

I find the best way is as follows:
- Don't pinch - make sure you have reasonable boat speed.
- head up when going up the wave
- bear away a little on the decent
- get into a rhythm with the tiller and the waves
Best of luck
Bob