Roach to backstay clearance

[des]

There is a long, small diameter flexable rod that attaches to the masthead and the backstay that pulls the backstay away from the mast to clear the roach of the sail. I thought it was called a whip but I have searched several boat parts suppliers and haven't been able to find anything. Is there a different terminology for it? Does anyone know where to buy one?

 

[Jeff H]

Around here they are called "Flippers" and most are built by the boat owners using either batten stock and fishing pole parts or an old fishing rod.

Jeff