6 June 2010

Swartswood Lake had gusts of up to 23.4 knots yesterday at race time as a cold front passed through from the west.  Racing was delayed until just after the storm passed, which left plenty of wind, with gusts in the 12-18 knot range.  Kevin and Jim had their hands full setting up the start/finish line and posting  an imaginative 4 mark race - CHGD.

M Scow "Spirit" (Peter & Mike) lost it's forestay shackle just before race time, but repaired it in time for a late start.  M Scow "My Mistress" (John & Mat) reversed course to join "Spirit" upon seeing her bringing up the rear (We did this to have a more competitive race and also to alleviate some guilt, as I had informed the committee that "Spirit" would be unable to race).

"My Mistress" tacked South toward "Spirit," which was on a run, wing on wing.  We approached from a reach and  fell in behind "Spirit" on the down wind tack.  We decided to jibe immediately.  Our main was not sheeted in enough as we jibed, and a big gust hit at the same moment sending "My Mistress" into a 360 degree spin and near capsize.

Lost ground was made up as we made a good move to "C" mark, passing "Spirit" and finishing 3rd overall.

Bill Shannon, and Lydia handled the conditions beautifully, and came in First and Second respectively, with no capsizes!

Lots of fun, and most exciting conditions!

 

All the best,
Johnny Beeeeee