Oct 19, 2010

Governor's Cup: Viper Report

To make the story short, a couple of days prior to the regatta I drove 59 hours from Dallas to Long Island (back and forward, a touch and go trip) to pick up hull #107. This was the only way we will make it to the regatta. At the beginning the idea sounded crazy but now a couple of days later I look back and all the effort was so worthy.


"It has been a long time since I had so much fun at racing sailboats!"

On the first day, races where postponed and rather that just sit and wait, the Texas Viper group (which is really crazy) pop up the blender and start having drinks like it was the end of the planet. From there, it was pure FUN! 4 races in shifty 8 to 12 knots, lots of lead changes, 4 winners in four races... What else can you ask for? Ok, maybe a couple of big swells for downwind surfing but it cannot always be perfect, right?

Sailing with Giacomo, my 13 year old son and Rod Favela (145 lbs) meant that we will need to hike extra hard and since it was over 11 years since the last time I had to hike it, it had been painful at times but we always end up with a smile. How did we manage to win the regatta?.. I don't know and I will leave it for later, in the meantime, I am looking forward to the next Viper event: Wurfest Regatta (San Antonio, TX).

Drinking Final Tally from the Pisco Sour Bar prior to the first gun (as reported by our Fleet Captain):

- 4 bottles of Pisco,
- 2 pounds of sugar,
- 40 limes,
- 16 pounds of ice,
- yielding about 20 batches of Pisco Sours.

Don't let your Viper sit at your garage, see you at the next event!!!

Juan Mauri

Oct 5, 2010

Crotch Straps & Thigh Straps – Why they Matter

Recent research by UK Maritime & Coastguard Agency confirms why the hated crotch strap is necessary. It can stop a badly-adjusted lifejacket from riding up over your head and mouth when it inflates in water.

The Deckvest’s double-buckle helps reduce this risk by making chest belt adjustment easy and instinctive, but for human error reasons, Deckvest owners are still advised to use the special thigh strap which Spinlock provide.

Deckvest are also tested and approved with and without the thigh straps.

The 2010 Deckvest thigh strap is designed to fit comfortably around the hip joints. It can also be used as a single crotch strap between the legs if preferred.

Visit our Spinlock Deckware store to order the Spinlock Deckvest

The New Gill Sail Jacket now available!

The Sail Jacket from Gill combines striking new graphics and contemporary design with the classic elements of the popular Crew Jacket.

Constructed from a 1 dot laminated soft-touch fabric with fully sealed seams, the jacket is both waterproof and breathable. A Synthetic-fill lining provides warmth and is much easier to put on than a conventionally fleece-lined jacket. A thin reflective strip is incorporated into the back of the collar and sleeves adding a subtle trim detail.

The jacket has a drawstring waist and there are multiple pockets. With striking design and a durable and lightweight finish, the new Sail Jacket is perfect for active sailing or wearing on-shore, and is available in Black or Silver Grey.

Visit our Gill store to order the new Gill Sail Jacket

Harken UniPower Radial® Electric Winch Increases Headroom Belowdeck

Harken’s electric UniPower Radial® winch is the answer for sailors that want more headroom belowdeck. The motor of this one-of-a-kind winch is partially embedded inside the drum so only 4 1/8 in (105 mm) projects under the cabintop, an important feature for smaller boats where space below is limited. The compact UniPower is available in mirror-finished chrome or lightweight aluminium to match boat style.

The skirt and self-tailing jaws are made of high-strength composites, which save weight without sacrificing durability. Composite roller bearings reduce friction when the winch is under load and do not require lubrication. The UniPower winch has a maximum pull of 900 kg (1,984 lbs). In the event that the boat loses power, the winch can be operated manually by using a standard winch handle.

Visit our Harken store to order the Harken UniPower Radial Electric Winch

Sep 7, 2010

Sailing with the Mauri Pro Sailing Team

By Kerry Pelton (Texas A&M Sailing Team)

I joined the Texas A&M Sailing Team in the fall of 2009, racing 420s in the Southeast Intercollegiate Sailing Conference. This is the beginning of my competitive sailing career. This past march, I was lucky to be invited to sail with the Mauri Pro Sailing team on their Farr 39 at Lake Texoma during Lakefest and several other regattas as part of their support program to local College Sailing Teams.

My experiences with Juan and his crew have taught me more about sailing in a few short weekends than I ever have understood before. By racing on bigger boats, I have begun to understand the uses and purpose of the fine-tuning adjustments.


My favorite aspect of racing with Mauri Pro Sailing is their sense of focus and determination to dominate on the race course. From the preparatory flag to the finishing gun, they mean business. I have learned that each race is a new start and you have to race yourself, push the limits and never take it easy. Even if you are in the lead, no place is guaranteed.

I love assisting on the bow. Each mark rounding with spinnaker hoists and peels leaves me with a huge adrenaline rush. I certainly get nervous every regatta when the gun goes off, but I am glad to be in such a wonderful learning environment.


I love Juan Mauri and his team welcoming personalities and immediately felt like part of their family, more than just a teammate. The international aspect of their crew really intrigues me because I have a Spanish background and plan to minor in Spanish. I am very thankful that I was introduced to the Mauri Pro Sailing crew and cannot wait for future regattas on board their boats, improving my sailing skills while developing lasting friendships.

Kerry Pelton
Texas A&M Class of 2013

Sep 1, 2010

Ronstan Core Blocks now available at Mauri Pro Sailing

Ronstan’s new Core Block Series evolves the concept of the basic sailing block beyond the simple ball bearing design from decades ago. With class-leading performance and contemporary race-inspired styling, Core Blocks now offer sailors an attractive and affordable option appropriate for today’s refined sailboat designs.

The heart of the new Core Blocks is an exclusive 2-stage bearing system housed in durable alloy cheeks. Stage one is an ultra-low friction system for moderate loads, while stage two engages when loads increase for superior high-stress performance.

Core Blocks also complement the looks of any modern sailboat. Block cheeks are shaped with precision from the highest quality alloy to maximize strength, minimize weight and allow for easy maintenance. The unique cheek design reduces rope wear by incorporating a flare at the block throat. Other great features include: removable becket pins for use with pre-spliced sheets, a fully articulating support base for the stand-up models, and a universal head system that can be locked in either of two planes, or left free to swivel.

Core Blocks are ideal for sheet blocks on cruisers or racing cruisers and are also a good choice for high static load applications like halyards and backstays. They are available in two sizes:
Series 60 and Series 75, generally suitable for boats up to 14m (46 feet) depending on the application. Alloy sheave models are available for use with wire cables.

Visit Ronstan Blocks store to order the new Ronstan Core Blocks now!

The New i5 Gill Crosswind Midlayer Jacket and Salopettes

The i5 Gill Crosswind midlayer jacket and Salopettes has been redeveloped with an improved fit and new color scheme. The Crosswind comes in to its own when the temperature drops or the sun goes down, providing excellent cold-weather insulation.

Using the latest in laminate fabric technology, the garments are waterproof and breathable, providing an extremely soft, low-bulk mid-layer.

Thermally lined in all the key areas with highly insulating non-water absorbing synthetic internal lining that features a high CLO rating (Insolating factor). The Crosswind has a slippery lining making it extremely easy to get in to in a hurry when the weather conditions deteriorate, even over other layers.

A stretch material in the shoulder panel of the Salopettes complements the most aerobic moments on the boat. An elasticized waist and abrasion resistant seat and knees all contribute to an extremely comfortable and versatile product that can even be worn as an outer shell in less aggressive conditions
.

Visit our Gill Sailing Gear store to order the new Crosswind Jacket and Salopettes

Aug 6, 2010

New Sailing Gear & Apparel Clearance Section

Novasail Speed GPS Compass We just launched a new sailing gear and apparel clearance section with products up to 50% off their original List Price. Featuring all of the top sailing brands such as Gill, Harken, Slam, Camet and Henri Lloyd, this is the place to pick up a bargain.

You can find sailing shoes, hiking pants, jackets, smocks, spray tops, life vests, PFD´s, rashguards, tech tees, shorts, pants, trousers, sunglasses and more.

Most of the items we have on clearance are brand new products (unless other wise stated) still on their original package.
Most of the items we have on clearance are brand new products (unless other wise stated) still on their original package. There is a chance once in a while there will be one item that was opened and then returned to us unused and/or that it is discounted (last year model). Either way we hope you take advantage of these low prices.

Quantities are limited so get advantage of these offers today!

Visit our Sailing Gear & Apparel Clearance section.

Jul 9, 2010

New Spinlock Zero Vest available at Mauri Pro Sailing Store

Spinlock Zero Vest The Spinlock Zero is designed especially for performance keelboat sailors, targeting the particular needs of this competitive and fast-growing group. Zero Vest combines articulation and a slim profile with unique ventilation features, creating a low-bulk vest for the Sportsboat sailors.

A fresh approach to the design and ergonomics of the product allows Spinlock Zero Vest to be worn like a close-fitting performance garment. Ultra stretch neoprene panels allow free articulation in the key body zones for active hiking and trapezing. The unique Body Fit adjuster ensures a streamlined fit for any shape of user across the whole size range.

Revolutionary new venting and fast-draining features increase breathability, allowing functional garments such as spray tops to perform underneath, as well as preventing water overloading - all problems that can impede best performance.
Visit our Spinlock Deckware store to order the Spinlock Zero Vest

Jul 5, 2010

Wichard MX Shackles at Mauri Pro Sailing Store

Wichard MX Halyard Shackles Wichard's new MX is a High Resistance halyard shackle fully forged in 17/4 PH stainless steel to take on the high loads. MX has been specifically designed for static load operations and can be used to replace the terminals on flying sail furlers (i.e. halyard block) or as a 2:1 purchase for your mainsail and is now available for you on Mauri Pro Sailing Store.

Thanks to its unique design, the MX can excellently distribute the stresses and its particular shape enables it to perfectly position the line to avoid undue and excessive wear on the line.

The Wichard MX shackle can effectively replace the terminal of your flying sail furlers, especially the halyard block, by providing an outstanding strength/weight ratio. When luff tension is needed, it can be used to replace the halyard block on top swivel or to replace the lower terminal on spool (snap shackle etc.).

Wichard have specifically designed the MX shackle to adapt itself to the heads of most mainsails. Thus it can be used in place of a 2:1 purchase on a mainsail halyard making it easier to tension the halyard and hoist the mainsail.

Visit our Wichard Store to find Wichard MX Halyard Shackles

Jun 25, 2010

Ronstan Latest Launches at Mauri Pro Sailing

Ronstan is always developing new products to improve the sailor’s performance. This time, Ronstan has launched a new segment of furlers for free flying sails, the new RF45130 Orbit block with soft Dyneema loop becket and cam cleat, a spinnaker pole mast slide (ring type), new colour combinations for the c-cleat to easily code your control lines and a tough mini snap shackle ideal for halyards.
Mauri Pro Sailing Ronstan Sailboat Hardware StoreThe flying sail Ronstan Furlers are the result of an extended development program that have already been seen in action on number of high profile racing boats and have proven themselves to be extremely efficient and reliable.

The Ronstan Spinnaker Pole Slide is the latest addition to the Series 25 T-Track range. It features a sleek, high performance composite construction. The grade 316 stainless steel ring and glass reinforced nylon body are designed for maximum strength.

The ever-popular C-Cleats and accessories have had a facelift with new colour combinations, which Ronstan have introduced recently. Their "classic" C-Cleat with grey cap/grey base, and T-Cleat with red/grey base, will remain in production but the rest of the range has already changed to the new look.

The Ronstan Mini Snap Shackle is the latest addition to the range of fixed bail snap shackle. Stainless steel is used throughout for excellent corrosion resistance. It is only 32mm in length and weights 10g.

Finally, Ronstan recently added the Orbit Block Series 40 BB single with a becket, cleat and swivel head (RF45130) to the popular S40 Orbit Block range. This new block is the same as the existing RF45131 with the only difference being the stainless steel swivel shackle head.

Visit our Ronstan Sailboat Hardware Store to find Ronstan new items!

Jun 8, 2010

ZHIK: Deckbeaters Shorts

Mauri Pro Sailing: Zhik Deckbeaters Shorts The Zhik R & D team has finally cracked it! Over twelve months of design and testing has gone into Zhik’s latest product to hit the stores: the Deckbeaters.

Deckbeaters began life when keelboat sailors told Zhik that the existing padded/hiking shorts in the market were uncomfortable, didn’t fit right, too hot and sweaty and inconvenient as you have to wear them to the bar later. So with that in mind, Zhik R & D team enlisted some of the world’s best sailors to help them develop the best sailing short in the market.
Designed to be worn either underneath your normal sailing short or over your suits, Zhik Deckbeaters provide the ultimate in hiking comfort, which also being extremely breathable to keep you cool. The pads have perforated holes in them to aid the breathing process and there is Zhiktex fabric on the bum panels for added durability.

These shorts will become vital pieces of sailing clothing for all keelboat racers, once someone wears them on a boat, the rest of the crew will follow suit. Visit us and order online your ZHIK Deckbeaters now.

Visit our Zhik Sailing Gear Store

May 20, 2010

GILL: Garments Care

Mauri Pro Sailing Gill Products Care Gill sailing apparel is designed to withstand the tough life and environment of the boating world. However, like any clothing, it will last longer when cared for properly. That's why at Mauri Pro Sailing we have developed a new special section that will help all sailors maintain the performance and life of their Gill sailing gear.

Check out this new Gill Garments Care section!

Visit our Gill Sailing Gear Store

Optiparts: WinDesign Dinghy Sailing Gear

Mauri Pro Sailing Optiparts Sailing Gear Store Optiparts has continuously developed a wide range of products for the Optimist dinghy and under the trade name WinDesign, Optiparts manufactures not only spars, fittings, sails or covers but also technical clothing.

Now you can order online at our Optiparts sailing gear store a complete range of WinDesing dinghy gear. Gloves, boots, hiking pants and everything is needed for dinghy sailors.
Visit our Optiparts Windesing Dinghy Gear Store

May 5, 2010

One Design Sailboat Parts: New Classes Added

Mauri Pro Sailing One Design Parts Store We keep adding more and more classes to our One Design Specifics section. It is rapidly becoming one of our most visited areas with in our store.

Our web designers and sailors keep working to provide you with an easy to use guide for each boat. Help us to build the best One Design parts and selection guide by letting us know if you will like to see specific products listed.

Note:
If your class is not listed yet contact us and we will be able to assist you with hardware or rigging selection.
Visit our One Design Parts Store

Mar 25, 2010

Mauri Sails: New Hobie 33 One Design and PHRF Sails


Mauri Hobie 33 one design sails came fast out of the blocks winning the 2010 Nationals. Our new MX5 Technora sails allow the winners to sail higher and faster in everything from light 5 knots up to blade conditions.

For more information contact: Mauri Sails

Visit: Mauri Sails | Mauri Racing Sails

Feb 26, 2010

GILL: High Performance Race Gear Collection

The ultimate performance racing range, the Gill Race Collection has been designed, tested and race proven for use in warmer conditions where weight, performance and protection can be the key to success. The Race Collection is the end result of 14 months of research and development with input from Terry Hutchinson and Team Quantum (TP52) and sailors from Barking Mad (Farr 40) and Team Aqua.

Each piece of the new collection was tested and proven under race conditions in Mediterranean, USA and Caribbean – Audi Medcup, Rolex Farr 40 Championship, Key West, Miami and congressional Cup. The end result of the program achieved Gill's objective - to design, develop, build and test the best, most innovative, highest performing, collection of performance day gear ever.

Here are the results of testing:

• The Gill Race Collection jacket is the lightest performance sailing jacket on the market.
• The waterproofs are highly breathable, incredibly flexible and as light as is possible with current technology.
• The Collection covers most of the protective needs of the sailor, from fast drying wicking, tops with high UV protection, to warm stretchy soft shell, mid or outer layer all the way through to full waterproofs. The collection is visually coordinated to give a professional, sporty look across the boat, regardless of which pieces each member of the team is wearing.

Gill Sailing Gear Gill Race Collection

GILL: OS1 Offshore Jacket and Trousers

The Gill OS1 is a tough, comfortable and functional choice for those who need a foul weather system that is designed to withstand the rigors of extended offshore boating.

This is the most comprehensive offshore suit to come out of the product development team to date and is made using Gill’s top of the range 5 Dot four-layer laminated fabric. As a result of intensive on-the-water research with professional boaters, Gill is able to deliver a cutting edge jacket and trouser combination that is extremely durable, waterproof and breathable.

Particular attention has been given to the area around the neck and chin where some jackets can be vulnerable to water intrusion and cause discomfort on the face. This has been resolved by an innovative closure system around the chin, and a comfortable micro-fleece internal lining that has very soft feel against the skin. As you would expect, the wearer of Gill OS1 offshore jacket is completely protected from the elements when the conditions deteriorate. With safety the number one priority, there are SOLAS approved prismatic reflectors on the chest, shoulders, cuffs and hood, and reflective piping all the way around the upper body section.

Gill Sailing Gear | Gill Foul Weather OS1 Gear