The Light Air Traveler (LAT) system was developed to create a relatively simple and adaptable system for quickly tacking the traveler in light air conditions. In the TP 52 and other boats that us a Harken Pro Trim for their traveler adjustment, the gearing of this mechanism makes it quite difficult to move the traveler from side to side during tack. This “direct drive” style system allows the Pro Trim to be dis-engaged and can move the traveler car quickly and independently from the pit area, and then re-engage the pro trim after the LAT is done. This simple modification allows the boat to be more nimble during tacks and pre-start maneuvers.
This system was designed to be a simple and lightweight solution that requires minimal modification to the boat. Each LAT is fairly modular an can be tailored to fit different boat designs and configurations.
More than half of the TP 52s in the GL52 Fleet are using a Kingspoke LAT that has been configured to fit their boat.