ASA 101 – Basic Keelboat Sailing Practice Exam

The line that runs from the top of the mast to the bow is the forestay (headstay). It’s the forwardmost stay that holds the mast in place by providing tension toward the bow, which helps keep the mast from tipping backward under sail load and gives a mounting point for the foretriangle and fore-sails like the jib. The backstay goes to the stern and resists forward bending of the mast, the shrouds run to the sides for lateral support, and lifelines are safety rails along the deck—not structural supports for the mast.