Abstract: A windsurfer sailing rig includes a mast with a top mast extension. A swivel connection connects the extension to the top of the mast. In use, down haul tension for the mast is applied to hold the swivel connection downwards in position.

Abstract: A sail tensioning device comprises a handle 70, an arm 73 and a tube 75 which fit together to form the device. The handle is fixed by a strip of webbing which fits in an opening 77 and is stitched to a sail to provide an anchor for the handle. The arm 73 fits in a cavity in the handle 70 to pivot about an intermediate point of the handle and urge the tube 76 against a batten (not shown), as the handle swivels about the anchor. Urging the batten in this way forces the batten against a remote end of a batten pocket to tension the sail.

Abstract: A sailing apparatus includes a sail having a batten which is positioned relative to the mast by a coupling member which serves to induce a camber in the batten and enhance and stabilize the draft or curvature of the sail. The coupling member can be installed and removed while the sailing apparatus is fully rigged.

Abstract: A sail for a sailboard is tensioned by use of a batten inserted in a pocket having closed ends. The batten has end cap having a tip on a screw for adjusting the overall length of the batten.

Abstract: A sailing harness adapted to be worn by a sailor and fastened to the sail assembly of a sailboard, for supporting the sailor during sailing and reducing fatigue. The harness includes a buttock-engaging member adapted to surround the sailor's buttocks, a coupling member connected to the buttock-engaging member at the front of the sailor, and adapted to be fastened to the sail assembly, and an elastic retaining member attached to the coupling member and adapted to be fastened to the upper torso of the sailor. The elastic retaining member keeps the coupling member close to the sailor's torso when no load is applied to the coupling member, and stretches to permit the coupling member to move away from the sailor's torso when load is applied during sailing. Substantially all of the load transmitted through the coupling member is therefore transferred to the sailor's hips.