Chuck
Have you ever noticed that more often than not the guy who hangs back a little from the mayhem tend to do very well? Being right on the line is not always the best place to be as there will be others above and below you all pucshing for their own bit of water[:0]
I try - and try is the word - to place myself behind the main group of boats pushing to the line - invariably there are tangles and yelps of disgust and calls like "what are you doing? and UP,UP GO UP you (&*^)^". By being just behind the melee you have choices - i.e go below the tangles or cross the line, tack away and go off with clear air - your best friend
You can then tack back and cover or truck off on your own with your friend - clear air[;)]
No matter what - we can't always get the start the way we want but if as Dugout says, if you have a strategy - STICK WITH IT[:)] You then sail where you want too on the track and are not dictated to by other skippers.
By putting yourself in the advantage slot you get to control your own race.
Happy Sailing and good starts![8)]
Chris
NZL1 Longtack
&
NZL110 Swept Away