Barton Marine has been selected to supply its Boomstrut to Petticrows Ltd, a leading Dragon keelboat manufacturer in the United Kingdom. The Boomstrut, which is now available as an optional extra aboard the 8.9 metre Petticrow Dragon, provides a fast response and a near constant force for vang efficiency to give racers more control of the mainsail.

"Customers choose from four Dragon models, which we then customise to meet each racer's specification," says Tim Tavinor, Production and Technical Manager at Petticrows Ltd. "When purchasing a Dragon, approximately 90% of our customers currently ask for the Barton Boomstrut to be fitted as an additional feature. It is appropriate for the boat's rig and assists the skipper as it supports the boom by releasing tension on the leach of the sail, which is particularly helpful in light winds."

"Many of the Dragons have beautiful inlaid decks and the Boomstrut avoids any damage by ensuring that the boom does not fall onto the deck when lowering the sail," adds Tim.

The lightweight design of the Boomstrut eliminates friction, sharp edges and sliding parts. Unnecessary drilling can also be avoided when installing, as its boom fitting is contoured to fit both flat and round booms and the mast fitting can slide in most luff grooves.

"With Petticrow Dragon teams dominating the top finishing positions in International Championships it is important that they use the most reliable equipment onboard," says Paul Botterill, Director at Barton Marine. "The Boomstrut dispenses with the topping lift so that less weight and windage aloft is created. Its two fibreglass rods support the boom at all times, so that when the boom is pulled down the Boomstrut flexes upward and when releasing the boom the Boomstrut straightens, lifting and securing the boom in position."

The Barton Boomstrut, designed to endure heavy usage when racing or cruising, is available in five sizes to suit yachts up to 12 metres.