An IOM yacht is only one metre long but like a full scale yacht there are 101 things to check before a championship. Here is the list of little things I have been working through. I am sure you have yours.
Stop sheet fairleads sliding forward on the boom by wrapping tape around the boom just in front of the fittings.
Set jib booms as low as possible to keep the sails centre of effort low
Check there is no movement in the mast at the foot and where it enters the deck
Make sure all lines ar new and free running
Check all the knots are secure and super glued
Make sure you have spare burgees
Check the fin and bulb are the correct weight and smooth
Check the jib sheet angles are symmetric. Subject of a previous thought
Make sure your spreaders are secure and perpendicular to the mast
The hull is polished
Winch is checked.
Enough batteries available for 3 days racing
The mainsheet pulley is secured and aligned so there is no possibility of a snag
Check the boat still measures, for weight, bulb depth etc
Make sure you have elastic bands to tension leach line on the jib
Read the notice of race again to make sure you have everything required
Go through my web site to make sure I am fully prepared and remember what to do before during and after racing.
Make sure checklists are up to date
My goal is to go to the Nationals with everything well prepared so I just focus on the sailing. Niggling problems can be so destructive once the event gets underway when time is at a premium to learn about the water.
3 racing days to go at Gosport before champs.
