Which term represents a depowering technique during a run in moderate to heavy wind by reducing twist and adjusting sail trim with vang and centerboard?

• A. Sculling
• B. Lulls
• C. Drag
• D. Avoiding Capsize To Windward

Answer: (D)

Depowering a boat in strong wind on a run means taking some power out of the sails so the boat remains controllable. Flattening the mainsail by tightening the vang reduces twist, which makes the sail act more efficiently but with less driving force. Adjusting the centerboard helps balance the boat and reduce sideways drift, making it easier to steer and less likely to heel excessively. When you combine these adjustments, you reduce the risk of a capsize, especially toward the windward side, by keeping the boat’s attitude and trim more stable. That’s why the term that fits best is the one describing avoiding capsize to windward—the depowering is aimed at staying safe and controllable in heavy wind. The other options don’t describe a depowering technique.