Starr class forestay?

[Hwoodworks]

I have a Starr class #3553 woody, with a very thin lower fore stay 1/16”. The upper forestay is much larger 3/16”. I have to replace the lower one and was wonder why it is so thin. At first I thinking that maybe it stretches in high winds giving the sail a flatter shape, but it would give the sail more shape in higher winds, and that would be opposite of what you would what, right. Maybe you would start from low winds and as the wind increased to a medium speed it would then stretch and make the sail the right shape, fuller. Or maybe someone just put the wrong size lower forestay on, and that is why I have to replace it.
Looking for information on standing rigging sizing for small boats, and sail shape and air foils.
This boat also has two adjustable back stays. and both forestays are adjustable, on the go.

John

[Martin Nelson]

Several classes use very light forestays, and have a larger wire in the jib luff. The light forestay keeps the mast in place while at anchor. The wire in the jib carrys all of the load while sailing. I sailed 470's that had the same arraingement.

[Hwoodworks]

Thanks, that's right, wish I had though of that.