OCTOBER 24, 2017 SHORT RACE, BEAUTIFUL SUNSET

SHORT RACE, GREAT SUNSET

As we left the harbor, I got a sinking feeling.  There were about a dozen boats floating around the start mark with zero wind.   As we approached the start mark, I announced the course (B6 with an option to call the race at Blacks) and gave a five minute horn at 5:55.  Almost on cue, the wind started to build as the 5 minutes ticked off. 

  There were several boats caught off guard by the building wind and were early to the line.  All boats ran the line and started correctly.  The wind seemed to be no more than 5 knots and we all seemed to be racing in slow motion.  About halfway to Blacks, I announced that we would finish at start-finish.

The first around Blacks was Pacific Spirit followed by Homer and Pair A Dice.  As we left Blacks, the wind seemed to be dying making the Start mark look very far away.  Alas the wind did die at Blacks and most of the twelve boats out just headed to the barn.  Pacific Spirit finished the race just ahead of Homer followed by Pair A Dice.

SAILING WITH HONOR:

Using the start line between the start mark and Blacks point, it appeared that all boats started correctly.  One of the boats touched the start mark and  took a penalty turn. It made me proud to be sailing with such an honorable crowd!

I am still learning rules.  It was pointed out that it is not legal to use a boat hook to hold the clew of a sail out.  This is rule 50 and indicates that anything that holds the clew out must be attached to the mast unless you are in the process of jibing. You can use your hand to hold out the clew, but your body must not be outside the life lines.  I am certain I have ignorantly broken this rule in the past.

OTHER REGATTAS:

Again, I would like to point out that SCYC is putting on the midwinters series. Being winter, these races are usually light wind races and can be very fun.  You will need a PHRF certificate (get one at the club). The first day of races in this series will be November 18.  There is usually a skippers meeting before this first race.  Check out the Notice of Race on the SCYC web site.  We have all learned a lot and it is now time to enter a real race. If three Jib and Mainers do not register for the race, we will be included with the B fleet which will be sailing with spinnakers and we will get a 12 second PHRF advantage.  If you do not know the flag sequence for starting sanctioned race, email me and I will go over it for you.  Better yet, ask me at the barbecue and we can discuss it.

THIS COMING TUESDAY WILL BE THE LAST TUESDAY OF THE YEAR AND WILL BE A BARBECUE NIGHT AT THE CLUB.  THE BAR WILL BE OPEN! BRING YOUR FAVORITE GRILLING FOOD! IT WILL BE HALLOWEEN, FEEL FREE TO DRESS UP!

We will discuss the coming year and ways to improve our Tuesday sails.  Please make an effort to at least come to the barbecue!

See you Tuesday,

Barry Keeler

Sailing Pair A Dice