Hi everyone
I just purchased my first boat, a 1963 28ft dragon class. It has running backstays in position. I am curious to know if they can be removed or are they required for extra mast support in strong winds?
I believe they can increase performance when used properly? How exactly do they increase sail performance?
Basically I am just wanting to do some weekend sailing for fun not looking to get into racing so performance is not that important at this stage. I would prefer to deciliter the cockpit and keep things basic while still learning if they are not required for mast support.
According to this http://www.afsid.org/DragonManual-Aus.pdf they are there for forestay tensioning and not keeping the mast in the boat.
That said, if learning in a Dragon the headsail is pretty big so I would personally be tempted to get a headsail cut down (must be plenty of 2nd hand ones going cheap) to use the same sheeting position to make it easier for just cruising.
Sounds like the mahogany Dragon off eBay. I would be inclined to leave it as it is. All those controls are there for a reason and even if you are learning, if there are two sailboats visible they are racing!
Thanks for the very useful link rumblefish!! My main concern was that if i do not use the runners there will be undue loads on the mast at the deck which it states can be the case. Seeing as i am only going to be sailing in light winds for a while i am still thinking about removing them and putting them back on later in the year. They really do get in the way when in the cockpit and i am just cruising. I also read that using the runners helps eliminate pumping of the mast. i have only used it in light winds so far and couldnt notice any significant movement or pressure on the mast.
Romana: no it is not the one on ebay i actually purchased off a fellow seabreezer. Thank you for the advice much appreciated. You are probably right but i prefer simplicity and less ropes in the cockpit so if it is possible to remove them without jeopardizing the strength of the mast or deck i would prefer at this stage.
Thanks again guys. 
I'm amazed the Dragon on eBay has not sold. $30,000 worth of mahogany shaped into a lovely boat, rigging and a road trailer, sails.
$4,500. Wish I had more space.
I am a yacht mast designer and have built a few dragon masts in my time and wish to advise you that in light airs below 10 knots in sheltered waters it is ok to take them forward and secure them. but in heavier winds use them or you will invert the mast.
