Abstract: A tiller-crossbar connector for catamaran rudder control includes a central bolt member passing through a spherical nylon member at one end and through a hemispherical nylon member at the opposite end with a spring member disposed between the two nylon members. Each nylon member is positioned within the bolt-retaining recess of a corresponding standard end cap and the spherical curvatures of these nylon members conform to the hemispherical curvature of the standard bolt-retaining recess. With the spring member disposed between these two end caps, the entire connector and end cap assembly is able to be tightly clamped together by means of a nut threadedly received on one end of the central bolt member.

Abstract: A sailing jacket for use by a sailor in competition sailing includes a plurality of identical vest sections. Each vest section has an inner panel and an outer panel joined together along their margins to form an interior compartment. A mass of water absorbent material is disposed within the compartment such that when the jacket is wetted a predetermined increase in weight becomes available to the sailor for use as trim ballast for improving the operating efficiency of his sailboat.