MAY 16, 2017: SEASONAL WINDS

MAY 16, 2017

SEASONAL WINDS

The flag on the Crows Nest was as stiff as a board showing a strong northwestern breeze with no sign of lightening.  As we approached the start area. We saw winds approaching 20 knots.  We immediately put in a reef so we could control the boat.  We called for Whiskey 1: start to wharf, mile blacks start and gave a 5 minute horn.

As usual, Pacific Spirit and Equinamity were first off the line.  Pair A dice and Kicks came off the line at the same time, near the pin.  We all tacked over soon for the inside run toward the pier.  When Pacific Spirit and Equinamity tacked over, Pacific Spirit had us clear but rather than duck, we tried to tack on top of them attempting a lee-bow but were unsuccessful in getting close enough to affect their wind.  The tacking duel to Wharf was on with no drop in the amount of wind.  Early in the race we had to duck Perfect 36, but as we approached wharf, they had to duck us.  This was turning out to be a close race!

Perfect 36 and Equinamity were first around Wharf followed by Pair A Dice and Perfect 36.  Perfect 36 was slowly closing the gap on us toward Mile but we were able to round just ahead of them.  We then had the long slog down to Blacks.  At Blacks, Pacific Spirit and Perfect 36 rounded first followed by Equinamity and Pair A Dice. 

At the finish it was Pacific Spirit, Perfect 36, Equinamity, Pair A Dice, Kicks, Odonata, Aeolian and Tessa. Andiamo had to drop out due to a blown jib L.

We had a great dinner at the Crow’s nest with the crew of Perfect 36 showing up for the festivities!

To Reef or not to reef?

We all know our boats and when they should be reefed.  Larger boats seem to stand bigger winds without reefing.  On Pair A Dice, with a 135 jib, we like to reef with anything over 25 knots.  I learned a long time ago that being in control and being able to point better is a distinct advantage.  It does no good to slip sideways away from your destination.  Homer talks about being able to not reef and run the jib sheet out onto the rail rather than inboard.  I have yet to try this.

OTHER REGATTAS:

This Sunday, the 21^st will be the second of the SCYC score series.  Nobody took a score on the first race so the score is even.  All you need is a PHRF certificate and entry fee to take part in this official race with committee boats and the whole thing.  We have all learned a lot about sailing and racing.  It may be time to up the ante and take part in a real race. We have 3 boats very interested in entering.  It would be great to get Pacific Spirit out also!  I hope to see you out there.

I am looking forward to seeing all of you next Tuesday if not before (at the SCORE race on Sunday).

Barry Keeler

Sailing Pair A DIce