Re: Another "free" Boat
+1 on the previous posts. I learned on a 22 Columbia, which is a considerably heavier boat. The Southcoast seems like it would be a good learning boat.
The ropes are either sheets (they pull on the lower corner of the sails), or halyards (they raise the sails).
I'd recommend getting a copy of Chapman's Piloting. It's a tremendous reference for the terminology and basic techniques you'll need.
As for the sails, the small jib is generally a "standard" jib. The larger is probably a Genoa jib for lighter winds. You really want all three if you can swing it, but I'd keep the smaller jib for learning if you've got to sacrifice one. For patching, you really need to have the patches sewn rather than just glued. The problem is, if the sails are holed, they are probably somewhat rotted and pulled out of shape. You can use them, but you'll never get good sail trim and you'll eventually want to replace them. If you google "used sails" there are several places where you can buy new and used sails in pretty reasonable condition. You'll need to measure the sails you've got, but that might be a better way to go. You can also look into getting the sails repaired by a sail loft, but it might not be cost effective.
Some additional things to check out:
You really want to make sure the standing rigging (all the cables) is in good shape. You shouldn't have any broken wires or "fishhooks". Run your GLOVED hand along the cables. If you feel snags, those indicate that some of the cable wires are broken (I learned about "gloved" the hard way myself). Also look for evidence of corrosion, especially at cable fittings and such. Failure of the "ropes" will take down a sail, but failure of the standing rig under sail can easily take down the mast... HARD. Broken mast flying around can do some serious damage both to the boat and to you and your friends.
Also, try to get the keel blocked up and check out the pivot pin for the keel and the cable and winch that raise the keel. It's really hard to get back on the trailer with a failed keel winch. Lose the pivot pin and you can easily lose the keel. Your boat will normally self right under nearly any condition, but lose the keel and it will capsize pretty easily.
Good luck. I loved sailing when I was down in the bay area (SF). It's pretty satisfying to be able to get around with just the wind.
Carl
