I put the boat in the water pulled the rudders down as I went on a starboard beat in a force 3, avoiding moored boats, the boat steered well and felt nice.

Beyond the moorings I decided to change tack so with only a main I assumed it would be difficult - I was wrong - it was impossible. I did usual and tried to back up reverse rudders all the usual but no go. I eventually got moving forward on old tack direction - so once up to speed I tried again keep back, keep out no voilent movement, slow and gentle wait for sail to cross stay put but boat stationary back to same problem more reverse rudder more reversing still not able to go about.

After a while I do manage to go off on other tack. I open up to reach down coast not risking going about I gybe round I feels really good cuts through waves, a very wide boat so feels safe. I try another tack same thing - obviously the boat is wrong - now I worry about getting ashore.

I decided to come to jetty down wind slowly jump off and spin it head to wind - easy.

Jetty clear, good, I head in - just as I arrive two boys pull a Topper into my path I shout to ask them to catch me they don't take any notice I steer to avoid them jump off the rudders bang up, I can't get enough grip, the cat pushes forward, I push into boys and Topper we all go over the side. The boys are OK, apologies all round, I get rudders down and I am back to square one sailing away.

I eventually back the cat ashore, once on the beach I drop the sail and walk it along to the jetty. Later I saw boys who laughed that I had had so much trouble and told me to buy a jib.

I have consulted a Prindle 15 racer and will test it once I have set up the boat properly.

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