What is the term for the standing rigging run from the bow to the masthead that provides support?

• A. Forestay
• B. Backstay
• C. Shroud
• D. Cap shroud

Answer: (A)

This is about the mast’s forward support. The term is forestay. It is the standing rigging that runs from the bow up to the masthead, providing the forward support that keeps the mast from falling forward and gives the headsail something to attach to. The backstay runs from the stern to the masthead, providing aft support, not forward. The shrouds run from the masthead to the sides of the boat to keep the mast from moving sideways, and cap shrouds are the upper portions of those shrouds near the masthead. So the forestay is the correct term because it specifically connects the bow to the masthead to support the mast forward.