The Canard

From behind

Many of the boats have one or two stick-keels in front of the mast, to improve sailing upwind. With the central keel canted, there would be insufficient lateral area without the canard. It also allows to move the ballast keel further back. This helps to keep the bow up when running under spinnaker - a major problem with these little boats and their plumb bows.

"Still I pushed on instead of taking a rest - big mistake - put the big kite up, half asleep I think. Managed to drop it over the bow and under the boat, wrapping it around the canard, and then the keel. Total shitfight (excuse this word, but it is the only true description that fits!). 50 minutes of physical effort to haul it back, and a bunch of holes to repair when I can dry it."