1-16-2010 RACING

by Pam

In the words of Burton, we had four crazies and three enablers. The weather actually turned out quite nice. It wasn't too cold and the breeze started out a little light and built nicely by the end of the day and we ran three back to back races.

Doug and Amber had duty and I tagged along for the education. Amber got to enjoy what I get to enjoy when doing duty with Doug which, as she observed, turns sailboat racing into an entertaining spectator sport. 'Where would you start and where would you go? What would you do if you were Sandy? How would you defend if you were Frank? Would you tack if you were Burton? Why do you think Bruce just tacked and would you do the same?' Doug pointed out who is lifted, who is headed, who is sailing in dirty air, who should tack, how Frank could get Sandy right at the end with one good tack, how Sandy could move up a few places by bearing off and stretching the puff and then sailing a hotter angle, and how to pass this or that boat at this or that opportunity.

We had the pleasure of watching Bruce ('here comes slopoke') go from last by a long shot to first in the first race and then from first to last in the second and win then third as the wind built. Burton had a very good second race where he was literally a leg ahead of last place Bruce. It was very educational to watch such good sailors and have commentary from another good sailor.

Amanda was out in her Sunfish displaying an incredible attitude and perseverance. Go girl! Amber and I were cheering for you.

Winter is definitely a good time to beef up your skills and education and get a jump on the fair weather sailors.