On the Water 2015
Wednesday the 23rd of December Christmas Sailing.
The last entry on the 2015 Page
Six H28's made it out onto the water today with the pleasure of Les Brookers Nerrima joining the fray for the day. Glen Stanley's boat should have made it out even though he's in Sydney, but the person who was to drive in Glens place didn't front. Go figure ..... Otherwise the usual collection of SS22's popped up and a good day was to be had with a brisk 15 to 20 knots out of the sou sou west to sail on. Well done to the girls on Kate's boat Soraya. The wigs were "different".
For once the starters agreed and sent us off on a course two without the dash to Martin / Weaver and we managed to avoid the first of Div 1 from RP and get through before Div 2 caused any problems to the front runners.
The dash at the start had all the hallmarks of a match race with boats sitting, fluttering their sails, counting down the seconds before pulling the trigger. First away was Brian Cross with Mariner and hard on his heels and testing every inch of the way was Andrew Bell as he challenged to take the lead away. Swiftsure Saga was close by but was not able to catch the pair and elected to tack off early going for clear air up the middle as did Kate on Soraya and John Wright with Anna after a few moments. But Les stuck in, until going was the thing other than get caught up in the rubbish air from the RP fleet.
Down further we went to the Nor west with Andrew and he dropped away building speed and then tacked onto starboard, catching Mariner on the other board. Rolled and forced to go, we sailed in the bad air until we cleared the RP fleet and had another go to the Nor west to clear the run up to Hallmark. But Bill and SSsaga had other plans and the run up the centre was good enough for him to close up on Andrew and give us the slip. Two boats down.....?!
And thus the race progressed with the four front runners John Wright, Andy Bell, Brian Cross and Bill Richards more or less together in the battle for the top spots. Down and round the finish line we went and away to Sampson again with the dash to Dolphin West on the books. Up around D.West, Bill turned up, but no Andrew. Apparently he'd pushed the envelope a little hard and ran aground over near the sailboard area above Pelican Point. And then along he came, several minutes later. We took the advantage so kindly given and did not give second place back again. Over the line on Mariner, 2nd and happy about that. Bill RIchards took 1st and had sailed well. Andy Bell was doing his best and got past John Wright to take third but the cake was taken by Les Brooker with the employment of a low handicap and by finishing only 4 minutes behind Bill. Bingo and he took the win by 5 seconds from Bill with Brian Cross 3rd
The last entry on the 2015 Page
Six H28's made it out onto the water today with the pleasure of Les Brookers Nerrima joining the fray for the day. Glen Stanley's boat should have made it out even though he's in Sydney, but the person who was to drive in Glens place didn't front. Go figure ..... Otherwise the usual collection of SS22's popped up and a good day was to be had with a brisk 15 to 20 knots out of the sou sou west to sail on. Well done to the girls on Kate's boat Soraya. The wigs were "different".
For once the starters agreed and sent us off on a course two without the dash to Martin / Weaver and we managed to avoid the first of Div 1 from RP and get through before Div 2 caused any problems to the front runners.
The dash at the start had all the hallmarks of a match race with boats sitting, fluttering their sails, counting down the seconds before pulling the trigger. First away was Brian Cross with Mariner and hard on his heels and testing every inch of the way was Andrew Bell as he challenged to take the lead away. Swiftsure Saga was close by but was not able to catch the pair and elected to tack off early going for clear air up the middle as did Kate on Soraya and John Wright with Anna after a few moments. But Les stuck in, until going was the thing other than get caught up in the rubbish air from the RP fleet.
Down further we went to the Nor west with Andrew and he dropped away building speed and then tacked onto starboard, catching Mariner on the other board. Rolled and forced to go, we sailed in the bad air until we cleared the RP fleet and had another go to the Nor west to clear the run up to Hallmark. But Bill and SSsaga had other plans and the run up the centre was good enough for him to close up on Andrew and give us the slip. Two boats down.....?!
And thus the race progressed with the four front runners John Wright, Andy Bell, Brian Cross and Bill Richards more or less together in the battle for the top spots. Down and round the finish line we went and away to Sampson again with the dash to Dolphin West on the books. Up around D.West, Bill turned up, but no Andrew. Apparently he'd pushed the envelope a little hard and ran aground over near the sailboard area above Pelican Point. And then along he came, several minutes later. We took the advantage so kindly given and did not give second place back again. Over the line on Mariner, 2nd and happy about that. Bill RIchards took 1st and had sailed well. Andy Bell was doing his best and got past John Wright to take third but the cake was taken by Les Brooker with the employment of a low handicap and by finishing only 4 minutes behind Bill. Bingo and he took the win by 5 seconds from Bill with Brian Cross 3rd
Saturday the 20th of December The Frank Sampson Trophy
Madder and Badder with PFD's on.
No doubt about it. It was a doozie of a day. The starters quite rightly had us scurrying for lifejackets ( PFD's ) as the base load across the water was at least 20 knots with gusts into the 30's. Not a day for the faint hearted and the prospect of two runs to Brickies under the heavy breezes was leaning toward 2 hours of getting drenched and hoping that the bilge pump on Anna had enough battery to do the day.
I'd been given the main sheet on this occasion and Craig and Peter were trimming. Only two other H28's were going out, Nerrima and Swiftsure Saga and we collectively knew that it was going to be a hairy ride as the breeze was forecast to build. There was an oscillation in the breeze that wandered into the West and slammed back into the South periodically and this was going to be our free ride up to Brickies if we were careful. There were few boats out today with no boats from Royal Perth out on the water and just a few from Freshie popping out.
The first trip up to Brickies, all three H28's were in concert as we began overhauling Nerrima who started 5 minutes ahead of us and we had SSS on our tails as they started to reel us in from a minute behind us on the handicap system. And then around Deepwater, SSS staggered to a stop with the traveler blowing up, emergency repairs were effected and they continued on, keeping pace but a lot further back by now. Rounding Brickies for the first time we slipped in under Nerrima and committed ourselves to a chase scenario with keeping Les off our backs as a priority. SSS was not that far behind and with Glen Stanley opting to join Bill RIchards rather than take Wynella out short handed, they had plenty of talent on the boat.
The first downwind gave me the chance to rip off a few photo's, but lets face it, there weren't too many other boats to photograph and I prefer not to photograph people in the water... bad luck as far as I'm concerned. The three images don't really give you an idea of how windy it was, but we were getting up to 8.4 on the GPS ( downwind and down a wave) the rig was loaded up and flying a kite would have been absurd.
A turn at Dolphin West had us on our way to Brickies again and digging into Lucky Bay to get a good angle and the lift from the oscillating breeze. Again around Deepwater we had found the spot to tack and I chanced to look back at SSS who was really gaining. Then bang their jib track ripped off and with no choice but to retire, Swiftsure Saga rolled over onto the other tack and started to head for home.
Two left....
The battle was then to add to the time difference between ourselves and Nerrima hoping to get a chance at the Frank Sampson Trophy. We got to the line reasonably well with a lead of over 4 minutes. But to no avail. A red witch had beaten his confreres by more than 6 minutes and took the trophy home with him. So we were happy to take the win on the day and congratulate ourselves on having survived. Still would have liked to know how strong the breeze was though. It was blowing 35 to 40 knots at Rotto but how much of that would have translated to onto the river.... We'll never know.
Surprisingly the boat was well balanced and with the steady hands of John Wright on the tiller, the boat flew through the gusts. It was exhilarating to say the least and I'd do it again at the drop of a hat. The main felt good and with little or no back winding, the power was spread over the two sails nicely. A great day on the water.
Madder and Badder with PFD's on.
No doubt about it. It was a doozie of a day. The starters quite rightly had us scurrying for lifejackets ( PFD's ) as the base load across the water was at least 20 knots with gusts into the 30's. Not a day for the faint hearted and the prospect of two runs to Brickies under the heavy breezes was leaning toward 2 hours of getting drenched and hoping that the bilge pump on Anna had enough battery to do the day.
I'd been given the main sheet on this occasion and Craig and Peter were trimming. Only two other H28's were going out, Nerrima and Swiftsure Saga and we collectively knew that it was going to be a hairy ride as the breeze was forecast to build. There was an oscillation in the breeze that wandered into the West and slammed back into the South periodically and this was going to be our free ride up to Brickies if we were careful. There were few boats out today with no boats from Royal Perth out on the water and just a few from Freshie popping out.
The first trip up to Brickies, all three H28's were in concert as we began overhauling Nerrima who started 5 minutes ahead of us and we had SSS on our tails as they started to reel us in from a minute behind us on the handicap system. And then around Deepwater, SSS staggered to a stop with the traveler blowing up, emergency repairs were effected and they continued on, keeping pace but a lot further back by now. Rounding Brickies for the first time we slipped in under Nerrima and committed ourselves to a chase scenario with keeping Les off our backs as a priority. SSS was not that far behind and with Glen Stanley opting to join Bill RIchards rather than take Wynella out short handed, they had plenty of talent on the boat.
The first downwind gave me the chance to rip off a few photo's, but lets face it, there weren't too many other boats to photograph and I prefer not to photograph people in the water... bad luck as far as I'm concerned. The three images don't really give you an idea of how windy it was, but we were getting up to 8.4 on the GPS ( downwind and down a wave) the rig was loaded up and flying a kite would have been absurd.
A turn at Dolphin West had us on our way to Brickies again and digging into Lucky Bay to get a good angle and the lift from the oscillating breeze. Again around Deepwater we had found the spot to tack and I chanced to look back at SSS who was really gaining. Then bang their jib track ripped off and with no choice but to retire, Swiftsure Saga rolled over onto the other tack and started to head for home.
Two left....
The battle was then to add to the time difference between ourselves and Nerrima hoping to get a chance at the Frank Sampson Trophy. We got to the line reasonably well with a lead of over 4 minutes. But to no avail. A red witch had beaten his confreres by more than 6 minutes and took the trophy home with him. So we were happy to take the win on the day and congratulate ourselves on having survived. Still would have liked to know how strong the breeze was though. It was blowing 35 to 40 knots at Rotto but how much of that would have translated to onto the river.... We'll never know.
Surprisingly the boat was well balanced and with the steady hands of John Wright on the tiller, the boat flew through the gusts. It was exhilarating to say the least and I'd do it again at the drop of a hat. The main felt good and with little or no back winding, the power was spread over the two sails nicely. A great day on the water.
Wednesday the 16th of December
Mad, bad and dangerous to go out in.
Everyone had a good idea that it was going to be a rough one and with no information from Inner Dolphin Weather station, any guess was as good as the next. The wind was almost dead out of the south, bending a little around the shores of the bay and the whitecaps were foaming busily along the freeway end of Melville Water. We had the bonus of having Rob on board, a big fella with a lot of experience and a ready hand on the trimming. Verne and I were comfortable with the day and the skip, as usual, was thinking about the number two we had up. Vernes wife Judy had accepted Andrew Bells invitation to go out on Jindarra today. Interesting, she's going to get wet!
A quick duck out onto the river into the breeze told us that we would have to tighten everything up and we had to check all our straps and knots for if one of those let go today, we'd be in strife. We were given a Martin/Weaver start and a course three so it was a different course to most days and a welcome change. The start as usual meant everything and we found ourselves late to the line, but at the box end, so our job was to run along the jetties and try and get the best of the wind which was swirling off the Raffles hotel.
But every one else was late as well and we were cheek by jowl with the First Jindarra and Andy was climbing over us to get in front. Hard work got us up to the mark, shooting Martin as Andrew did and then bearing away for Weaver and the first gybe of the day. Close on our heels was Swiftsure Saga and the rest of the fleet, but some had had to tack to get up to Martin and consequently fell further back. I have great respect to all the SS22 sailors that started today and lots of time for the little yellow boat who completed the race. It couldn't have been easy.
All the boats were on the edge, with the toe rails constantly under water and all the mainsheet men working like Trojans to keep the mast pointing upward; once or twice on our boat the emergency release was hit as the gunnels were awash and water poured on board. It was a big day. Gybes were carefully thought out and poles were stowed early rather than the cavalier methods used in lighter weather. The first four boats were fairly close until Swiftsure Saga went the wrong way on the second time up to Robins. This let John Wright and Anna through and he was working the crew hard to get the boat going faster. He certainly had the height as well.
And then to the finish, with no abatement in the breeze. Thelma was not in consideration this time, so it was turn at Addison and head for the finish line keeping Como to starboard. By this time Jindarra was well in the lead and we had a good 40 seconds on John Wright. Bill Richards on SSS was 30 seconds behind John and then a bit of a gap till Glen Stanley and his valiant crew on Wynella crossed the line. The little yellow boat hit the line a couple of minutes after Glen. Kate and the girls had retired to drink champas in Archie's Bar claiming quite rightly that it wasn't a fun day on the water. Another two SS22's retired as well and frankly I couldn't blame them. It was a rough day.
Andrew picked up a first and fastest again, effectively screwing his handicap up, Brian Cross on Mariner was not unhappy to get second and second on handicap, but is considering doing something to that number two. Anna with John Wright can still cut the mustard with a third and third and Bill Richards picked up fourth and fourth.
And then the starters sent the twilighters out into the same breeze we had...... I wonder how many were able to keep the horsd'oeuvres platter flat on the deck let alone the champas glasses.
A note from the meeting last night. I wasn't there, but I gather that there is some discussion of the Freshie H28's wanting to sail with us on Saturdays. Good idea..... what do we have to do to get them here?
Mad, bad and dangerous to go out in.
Everyone had a good idea that it was going to be a rough one and with no information from Inner Dolphin Weather station, any guess was as good as the next. The wind was almost dead out of the south, bending a little around the shores of the bay and the whitecaps were foaming busily along the freeway end of Melville Water. We had the bonus of having Rob on board, a big fella with a lot of experience and a ready hand on the trimming. Verne and I were comfortable with the day and the skip, as usual, was thinking about the number two we had up. Vernes wife Judy had accepted Andrew Bells invitation to go out on Jindarra today. Interesting, she's going to get wet!
A quick duck out onto the river into the breeze told us that we would have to tighten everything up and we had to check all our straps and knots for if one of those let go today, we'd be in strife. We were given a Martin/Weaver start and a course three so it was a different course to most days and a welcome change. The start as usual meant everything and we found ourselves late to the line, but at the box end, so our job was to run along the jetties and try and get the best of the wind which was swirling off the Raffles hotel.
But every one else was late as well and we were cheek by jowl with the First Jindarra and Andy was climbing over us to get in front. Hard work got us up to the mark, shooting Martin as Andrew did and then bearing away for Weaver and the first gybe of the day. Close on our heels was Swiftsure Saga and the rest of the fleet, but some had had to tack to get up to Martin and consequently fell further back. I have great respect to all the SS22 sailors that started today and lots of time for the little yellow boat who completed the race. It couldn't have been easy.
All the boats were on the edge, with the toe rails constantly under water and all the mainsheet men working like Trojans to keep the mast pointing upward; once or twice on our boat the emergency release was hit as the gunnels were awash and water poured on board. It was a big day. Gybes were carefully thought out and poles were stowed early rather than the cavalier methods used in lighter weather. The first four boats were fairly close until Swiftsure Saga went the wrong way on the second time up to Robins. This let John Wright and Anna through and he was working the crew hard to get the boat going faster. He certainly had the height as well.
And then to the finish, with no abatement in the breeze. Thelma was not in consideration this time, so it was turn at Addison and head for the finish line keeping Como to starboard. By this time Jindarra was well in the lead and we had a good 40 seconds on John Wright. Bill Richards on SSS was 30 seconds behind John and then a bit of a gap till Glen Stanley and his valiant crew on Wynella crossed the line. The little yellow boat hit the line a couple of minutes after Glen. Kate and the girls had retired to drink champas in Archie's Bar claiming quite rightly that it wasn't a fun day on the water. Another two SS22's retired as well and frankly I couldn't blame them. It was a rough day.
Andrew picked up a first and fastest again, effectively screwing his handicap up, Brian Cross on Mariner was not unhappy to get second and second on handicap, but is considering doing something to that number two. Anna with John Wright can still cut the mustard with a third and third and Bill Richards picked up fourth and fourth.
And then the starters sent the twilighters out into the same breeze we had...... I wonder how many were able to keep the horsd'oeuvres platter flat on the deck let alone the champas glasses.
A note from the meeting last night. I wasn't there, but I gather that there is some discussion of the Freshie H28's wanting to sail with us on Saturdays. Good idea..... what do we have to do to get them here?
Saturday the 12th of December the 3rd Championship round
Nothing is easy.
Lockie was busily banging away in the bowels of Corella and Rita had been co-opted into taking part in the race with Glen and Wynella. Good to see the girl around the jetties. Les Brooker of Nerrima had his crew lined up with Jim Spittle ( Napier of Carrick ) joining him on board Nerrima as Napier of Carrick was being operated on by a diesel mechanic. Brian Cross was just finishing off re tensioning his rig and cleaning the hull and claimed that this might be the answer to the poor runs he's had recently on Wednesdays. We'll see.
A good day to be had on the water with a decent South Westerly of about 18 to 24 knots. John Wright was celebrating his 80th Birthday and it was put around the jetty that everyone should be nice to him today. "Fat chance", said AB. "You're a nice bloke, but it's different out on the water". And proceeded to do just that. With his usual pair of heavies and a guest he took off from the start and was not headed for the entire day. Even when he had a spinnaker stuff up on the cross to Dolphin East, he was still very much in the lead.
From the start it was going to be a two fleet race with Anna, The First Jindarra and Swiftsure Saga in one fleet and Wynella, Aloha and Nerrima in the other. Sure enough on a course one, the two fleets split early on in the day with the first mentioned taking the traditional route into the bay and trying to hit Applecross spit on the nose. Most of us took two digs to do it, but SSS managed it in one and then went right over to the north shore and came across onto Brickies on starboard. No loss no gain either, but it works for him. Anna and Jindarra went into Lucky Bay and then up the middle with both of us having to throw in small tacks to make the mark.
For us, the first ride down was champion and we began to reel in SSS, pulling in 30 metres, but Jindarra stayed in front in relatively the same place. Turning at Dolphin West we went back up to Brickies and repeated the dose, with the Jin and SSS getting that little bit further ahead. From Addison, the next trip was to Deepwater and it was achieved in good time, in fact it was only 4 pm when we rounded.
Then the fun began. The run to Dolphin East was a port pole and an early gybe with gusts coming through fairly heavily. ( we were recording 8 knots on the down wind. ) The next run was to Addison with the wind varying from the beam to on the lee and one mad moment a bit before Print, Anna went into a broach with water cascading into the cockpit and John working hard to get the boat back. Happy Birthday John. First one for us on Anna for a while. (9 knots registered on the GPS). Recovering, we continued on, with the kicker set a little lower this time.
All to no avail as the two boats in front were well and away. The other half of the fleet had been diminished by the retirement of Aloha (reasons unknown) so the results were: For the Championship.... Andrew Bell on the First Jindarra 1st, Swiftsure Saga 2nd and Anna 3rd.
On consistency Swiftsure Saga 1st, Anna 2nd and the First Jindarra 3rd with Nerrima taking 4th in both categories and Wynella in 5th place for both.
By the way we were being filmed off the start line by the club's keelboat coach..... I believe it's shown on Monday nights in the Heritage room.
Nothing is easy.
Lockie was busily banging away in the bowels of Corella and Rita had been co-opted into taking part in the race with Glen and Wynella. Good to see the girl around the jetties. Les Brooker of Nerrima had his crew lined up with Jim Spittle ( Napier of Carrick ) joining him on board Nerrima as Napier of Carrick was being operated on by a diesel mechanic. Brian Cross was just finishing off re tensioning his rig and cleaning the hull and claimed that this might be the answer to the poor runs he's had recently on Wednesdays. We'll see.
A good day to be had on the water with a decent South Westerly of about 18 to 24 knots. John Wright was celebrating his 80th Birthday and it was put around the jetty that everyone should be nice to him today. "Fat chance", said AB. "You're a nice bloke, but it's different out on the water". And proceeded to do just that. With his usual pair of heavies and a guest he took off from the start and was not headed for the entire day. Even when he had a spinnaker stuff up on the cross to Dolphin East, he was still very much in the lead.
From the start it was going to be a two fleet race with Anna, The First Jindarra and Swiftsure Saga in one fleet and Wynella, Aloha and Nerrima in the other. Sure enough on a course one, the two fleets split early on in the day with the first mentioned taking the traditional route into the bay and trying to hit Applecross spit on the nose. Most of us took two digs to do it, but SSS managed it in one and then went right over to the north shore and came across onto Brickies on starboard. No loss no gain either, but it works for him. Anna and Jindarra went into Lucky Bay and then up the middle with both of us having to throw in small tacks to make the mark.
For us, the first ride down was champion and we began to reel in SSS, pulling in 30 metres, but Jindarra stayed in front in relatively the same place. Turning at Dolphin West we went back up to Brickies and repeated the dose, with the Jin and SSS getting that little bit further ahead. From Addison, the next trip was to Deepwater and it was achieved in good time, in fact it was only 4 pm when we rounded.
Then the fun began. The run to Dolphin East was a port pole and an early gybe with gusts coming through fairly heavily. ( we were recording 8 knots on the down wind. ) The next run was to Addison with the wind varying from the beam to on the lee and one mad moment a bit before Print, Anna went into a broach with water cascading into the cockpit and John working hard to get the boat back. Happy Birthday John. First one for us on Anna for a while. (9 knots registered on the GPS). Recovering, we continued on, with the kicker set a little lower this time.
All to no avail as the two boats in front were well and away. The other half of the fleet had been diminished by the retirement of Aloha (reasons unknown) so the results were: For the Championship.... Andrew Bell on the First Jindarra 1st, Swiftsure Saga 2nd and Anna 3rd.
On consistency Swiftsure Saga 1st, Anna 2nd and the First Jindarra 3rd with Nerrima taking 4th in both categories and Wynella in 5th place for both.
By the way we were being filmed off the start line by the club's keelboat coach..... I believe it's shown on Monday nights in the Heritage room.
Wednesday the 9th of December Help.. we're sinking!
While I don't believe for a moment these were the words used, its an adequate description of Kates mob as they retired to the pens after the first lap. Kate's spouse Phil fixed the bilge pumps last week apparently.
The day started with the usual south westerly of sorts and at about 14 to 18 knots it was reasonable. Full of holes and the odd shift, it was workable but gave others a chance to have fun.
The starters had us away on a Martin Weaver run down south to the swirling breezes around the Canning Bridge and the Raffles tower that sits there now. Not without a bit of argy bargy on the start with the box end contested furiously by at least 4 h28's. We made it first out of the blocks but then spent the run to Sampson looking over our shoulders.
With an unevenly tuned rig (sorry skip) we battled our way up to Deepwater fighting off the advances of the impecunious Royal Perth Fleet as they swung into Waylen Bay on starboard. Dodging them all, we progressed to Applecross spit only to be the third boat in the line up at the spit as Huckleberry luffed up to stop another boat Frenzy ( both RP boats ) from getting the advantage, thus stymieing our chances of getting any pace on. Andrew drew further away...... So follow him and fight Bill off.
It wasn't to be. Rolled by Bill on the last down wind run, but not without a huge battle that gave Brian a bit of fun, The poor sod needed a bit of a break after that incident at Deepwater..... Hi ho now we had to keep Wynella off our tails. They were sailing well too. So the chance were that they could pick up a win, or at least a place. And so it was. The First Jindarra over the line for the double ( with Les Swinton on board ). Wynella second on handicap and 4th over the line. We got a 3rd over the line and 8th on handicap. Poor old Bill RIchards on Swiftsure Saga was second on the line and 9th on handicap. Not a good day for us, but good for some.
While I don't believe for a moment these were the words used, its an adequate description of Kates mob as they retired to the pens after the first lap. Kate's spouse Phil fixed the bilge pumps last week apparently.
The day started with the usual south westerly of sorts and at about 14 to 18 knots it was reasonable. Full of holes and the odd shift, it was workable but gave others a chance to have fun.
The starters had us away on a Martin Weaver run down south to the swirling breezes around the Canning Bridge and the Raffles tower that sits there now. Not without a bit of argy bargy on the start with the box end contested furiously by at least 4 h28's. We made it first out of the blocks but then spent the run to Sampson looking over our shoulders.
With an unevenly tuned rig (sorry skip) we battled our way up to Deepwater fighting off the advances of the impecunious Royal Perth Fleet as they swung into Waylen Bay on starboard. Dodging them all, we progressed to Applecross spit only to be the third boat in the line up at the spit as Huckleberry luffed up to stop another boat Frenzy ( both RP boats ) from getting the advantage, thus stymieing our chances of getting any pace on. Andrew drew further away...... So follow him and fight Bill off.
It wasn't to be. Rolled by Bill on the last down wind run, but not without a huge battle that gave Brian a bit of fun, The poor sod needed a bit of a break after that incident at Deepwater..... Hi ho now we had to keep Wynella off our tails. They were sailing well too. So the chance were that they could pick up a win, or at least a place. And so it was. The First Jindarra over the line for the double ( with Les Swinton on board ). Wynella second on handicap and 4th over the line. We got a 3rd over the line and 8th on handicap. Poor old Bill RIchards on Swiftsure Saga was second on the line and 9th on handicap. Not a good day for us, but good for some.
Saturday the 5th of December The Don Bourne Memorial trophy
2 seasons in one day. Wet and Cold.
No not one, three or four. A cold and miserable day on the water with the 5 boats agreeing belatedly to JaM so that all boats could compete on more or less equal footing. The wind was wandering all over the compass, though generally out of the south or the west. Despite our late request for a shorter course of the starters, they sent us off on a course one, the longest run of the choices available.
So off we went, all 5 of us... Anna, Swiftsure Saga, Wynella, Aloha and Koomela.
The race was tight with Wynella getting past Anna and Aloha ( two up ) still very much in touch. Swiftsure Saga with Bill and big John on board decided to go right about half way up the course and our battle with the continual wind shifts on the left hand side found us getting ahead of Wynella and Aloha, but the big surprise was Swiftsure nailing the run up the right hand side in the Westerly's and getting to Brickies well in front of the fleet. Once in front it was follow him for the rest of the day.
The rest of the day was spent watching the wind slowly diminish and putting up with the intermittent showers that came through. Coupled with the cold south westerly breeze we were glad we had several layers of clothes on for it was miserably cold for the time of year. A point to consider was that Wynella and Aloha were still in sight and with their handicaps, getting over the line was one thing, but handicaps would be another result. Then finally the wind came back in with a bang. A booming west sou westerly came in and the boats were all a little over powered, but the down wind run from Deepwater was fun in the big reaches that it gave us and even the gybe at Dolphin East became a little hairy with the GPS giving us a good 7.5 knots at the mark. Anna got over the line in second, managing to secure third place on handicap. Koomela still needs that time on the water to learn the courses and the river, but I think that Mark is enjoying the sail anyway. I'll wait for the first time he throws up a kite.. now there's a thought.
However the question was who would get first on handicap. Would Swiftsure Saga be far enough in front, would Aloha manage to steal first on handicap. Neither boat knew the result and a draw was not even thought of. But so it was and Bill Richards and Drew Minto ended up sharing the trophy for the first draw on handicap that I've seen and definitely the first for the Don Bourne Memorial Trophy.
Aloha is starting to earn her place in the fleet. Her handicap will shortly preclude her winning any more races as it rises, but she's been there every weekend when they can get the boat on the water. Two up on a rough day like Saturday afternoon is an indicator.
Many thanks to Ian Bourne who came along in his mother's ( Nancy ) place as she's just recovering from an op a few days ago. It was good to hear that she is still with us and apparently Ian is considering returning to sailing shortly. There is a standing invitation Ian... just walk down jetty three.
2 seasons in one day. Wet and Cold.
No not one, three or four. A cold and miserable day on the water with the 5 boats agreeing belatedly to JaM so that all boats could compete on more or less equal footing. The wind was wandering all over the compass, though generally out of the south or the west. Despite our late request for a shorter course of the starters, they sent us off on a course one, the longest run of the choices available.
So off we went, all 5 of us... Anna, Swiftsure Saga, Wynella, Aloha and Koomela.
The race was tight with Wynella getting past Anna and Aloha ( two up ) still very much in touch. Swiftsure Saga with Bill and big John on board decided to go right about half way up the course and our battle with the continual wind shifts on the left hand side found us getting ahead of Wynella and Aloha, but the big surprise was Swiftsure nailing the run up the right hand side in the Westerly's and getting to Brickies well in front of the fleet. Once in front it was follow him for the rest of the day.
The rest of the day was spent watching the wind slowly diminish and putting up with the intermittent showers that came through. Coupled with the cold south westerly breeze we were glad we had several layers of clothes on for it was miserably cold for the time of year. A point to consider was that Wynella and Aloha were still in sight and with their handicaps, getting over the line was one thing, but handicaps would be another result. Then finally the wind came back in with a bang. A booming west sou westerly came in and the boats were all a little over powered, but the down wind run from Deepwater was fun in the big reaches that it gave us and even the gybe at Dolphin East became a little hairy with the GPS giving us a good 7.5 knots at the mark. Anna got over the line in second, managing to secure third place on handicap. Koomela still needs that time on the water to learn the courses and the river, but I think that Mark is enjoying the sail anyway. I'll wait for the first time he throws up a kite.. now there's a thought.
However the question was who would get first on handicap. Would Swiftsure Saga be far enough in front, would Aloha manage to steal first on handicap. Neither boat knew the result and a draw was not even thought of. But so it was and Bill Richards and Drew Minto ended up sharing the trophy for the first draw on handicap that I've seen and definitely the first for the Don Bourne Memorial Trophy.
Aloha is starting to earn her place in the fleet. Her handicap will shortly preclude her winning any more races as it rises, but she's been there every weekend when they can get the boat on the water. Two up on a rough day like Saturday afternoon is an indicator.
Many thanks to Ian Bourne who came along in his mother's ( Nancy ) place as she's just recovering from an op a few days ago. It was good to hear that she is still with us and apparently Ian is considering returning to sailing shortly. There is a standing invitation Ian... just walk down jetty three.
Saturday the 28th of November Lockie rips his top off!
Before you start coughing and gagging at the thought of seeing Lockie with his top off, we are referring to the cabin top.....
A crowd of interested on lookers gathered to peer into the hull with comments such; as all it needs is a bow sprit and it'd be a couta boat and, gee was the bed that big? and where do you store the red wine Lockie... Such inane comments as these and others helped pass the time as we set up for an interesting day on the water.
Much against Drs orders, I ventured out with JW and hoped that the tape on my back would keep the stitches together. They did, so I'll mention no more of it. It was a classic day for a course one, though the wind had a strong oscillation in it and we had it wandering into the wsw and deep into the south as we battled up and down the river. With six H28s out we were able to welcome Mark Walters going out to reduce his handicap on Koomela along with Aloha and Nerrima. At the other end, Phil and Kate on Soraya were going to cause trouble along with Bill and Swiftsure Saga. Our chances were good as we had a full crew, but it was a going to be a battle between Anna, Soraya and Swiftsure Saga. Or so we thought.
Soraya dropped away early and Bill on Swiftsure had every chance of taking it away from us and blew it on the first down wind run to Dolphin West when ( in Andrew's words ) everything that could go wrong with the hoist did and then repeated itself once we had set it up to hoist again. Nevertheless Swiftsure managed to get right back up to us on the second work up to Brickies and they were in front of us on the second leg down. Only careful trimming and astute shadowing by the helm allowed Anna to slip past, but Bill wasn't finished yet and came within a whisker on the way down the third time, from Deepwater. Just had to keep going, avoiding potential issues that may have ruined our chances of staying in front.
However we knew that we gave Bill a fair bit on handicap so our chances of taking first and fastest weren't good. In fact Bill wasn't going to get first on handicap either. Aloha popped up to take the win, but the handicapper should be hard at work getting her off the bottom mark by now. Still it's the race that counts and first is still first. Many thanks to Bill and his crew for a damned good battle.
Sorry I couldn't get many pix, I had my hands full of the strings today.
Wednesday the 25th of November A great sailing day
The starters joined us for the day.
It was a roaring breeze out of the south west and I wasn't allowed out on the water sailing. Ok, so grab the camera, ask the club for an ok and jump on the safety boat with Mark and Pete.
Noticeable on the water were the club Wednesday starters. Geoff Sneesby had been on contact with Les Brooker and had borrowed his old boat Nerrima for the day. To help him he had Janis, John and Peter with Peter's wife Shirley to pass out advice. Well that would have been the case if it was a quiet day.... It didn't get under 20 knots all day and Christina Heydon as the starter for the afternoon sent us up to Martin/ Weaver on a course one. Alma wisely withdrew after going out to have a look at the river... a little busy for a learner.
Running along the piers is risky, but it's the quickest way and Mariner took the chance and got away with it. Bill RIchards went low and had to tack despite the huge lift he got toward the end. John Wright got his tack in early and various others had to go as well. Andy Bell had a disastrous start when a SS22 got in his road ( is this why we keep hitting them ). Andy did the right thing and ducked him, but was way behind for the start. Every one eventually made it, but there were a few mad moments as people tried to get up to the mark and then had to tack.
First to Sampson again on Mariner, closely followed by a plastic 24 and the boys from Nerrima weren't far behind. A busy corner and then it was pick your line and go for it. As I was on the safety boat, I couldn't follow all the changes, but by Deepwater Bill RIchards was ahead and Andrew was pushing it. The run down hill was lively and the return to Robins had them working hard. By now the boats had settled down and the race was a case of follow me. Bill was in front with Andrew and Brian panting at his heels. but being two up and having just put his stick back on that day, Mariner wasn't going to go much faster. The remainder of the fleet, Anna, Wynella and Nerrima were spread out with Anna not too far off our tails and the last mentioned having their own private battle.
The results had Andrew Bell first with Bill Richards second and Brian Cross third on handicap. Over the line Bill crossed before Andrew and Brian again had to settle for third again. How did the starters go? 5th over the line and last on handicap. Well sailed gentlemen (and Shirley)
Enjoy the images
The starters joined us for the day.
It was a roaring breeze out of the south west and I wasn't allowed out on the water sailing. Ok, so grab the camera, ask the club for an ok and jump on the safety boat with Mark and Pete.
Noticeable on the water were the club Wednesday starters. Geoff Sneesby had been on contact with Les Brooker and had borrowed his old boat Nerrima for the day. To help him he had Janis, John and Peter with Peter's wife Shirley to pass out advice. Well that would have been the case if it was a quiet day.... It didn't get under 20 knots all day and Christina Heydon as the starter for the afternoon sent us up to Martin/ Weaver on a course one. Alma wisely withdrew after going out to have a look at the river... a little busy for a learner.
Running along the piers is risky, but it's the quickest way and Mariner took the chance and got away with it. Bill RIchards went low and had to tack despite the huge lift he got toward the end. John Wright got his tack in early and various others had to go as well. Andy Bell had a disastrous start when a SS22 got in his road ( is this why we keep hitting them ). Andy did the right thing and ducked him, but was way behind for the start. Every one eventually made it, but there were a few mad moments as people tried to get up to the mark and then had to tack.
First to Sampson again on Mariner, closely followed by a plastic 24 and the boys from Nerrima weren't far behind. A busy corner and then it was pick your line and go for it. As I was on the safety boat, I couldn't follow all the changes, but by Deepwater Bill RIchards was ahead and Andrew was pushing it. The run down hill was lively and the return to Robins had them working hard. By now the boats had settled down and the race was a case of follow me. Bill was in front with Andrew and Brian panting at his heels. but being two up and having just put his stick back on that day, Mariner wasn't going to go much faster. The remainder of the fleet, Anna, Wynella and Nerrima were spread out with Anna not too far off our tails and the last mentioned having their own private battle.
The results had Andrew Bell first with Bill Richards second and Brian Cross third on handicap. Over the line Bill crossed before Andrew and Brian again had to settle for third again. How did the starters go? 5th over the line and last on handicap. Well sailed gentlemen (and Shirley)
Enjoy the images
Saturday the 21st of November The second of the Championships.
with a side note on Wednesday the 18th of November
That's good enough for me!
Six boats went out today, with Anna, Wynella, The First Jindarra and Swiftsure Saga carrying kites. Nerrima (welcome back Les) with a novice crew and Andrew Minto and Aloha. With the temperatures soaring into the high 30's the welcome nor easter was keeping us cool while it blew, but as the day wore on, so the breeze dropped out. A course 4 was on offer; generally given for light wind occasions, but the starters were prepared to stick it out..... right to the bitter end.
The battle began in earnest after rounding the day buoy, with Anna and Jindarra getting away well, with a run up to Deepwater on offer under kites. Smart work by Wynella had them draw ahead and the battle recommenced between the three with Anna losing out. Then up popped Swiftsure who had gone out to get clear air ( he does this quite regularly) and joined the battle. Across to Hallmark and then another kite run to Armstrong with gybes thrown in for good measure.
Then the troubles started as the beat back to Print and the conflict with the Freshie fleet left some boats pushed well out of their way. Anna found themselves in a " committed" position and threaded the needle through the on coming fleet. Others weren't so lucky. Then the breeze dropped and if you were on the northern side you were in strife. Vale Swiftsure and Wynella. Anna was left to challenge Jindarra and the closer we got, the better we felt on the second lap down wind to Deepwater. Jindarra went into the bay and gave away 100 meters but still retained a slender lead. Then the wind dropped even further and we could see Aloha and Nerrima making their way back up to Deepwater as we slowly worked our way down to Addison.
Then the wind gave up after Addison and we edged closer to Jindarra and for the first time, we were in the lead. It was 4.30 in the afternoon and the sun was burning off the water. Just then the start boat appeared, carrying an AP flag and honked imperiously twice.
"That's good enough for me." was the skippers remark and of one accord both the First Jindarra and Anna dropped their sagging spinnakers, fired up the engines and made their way home. We were not expecting any wind in the next hour or so and we got ourselves stowed away and headed up to Herreshoff Hill for some sorely needed refreshment. We were joined shortly after by Wynella and Swiftsure Saga who had like wise packed up and come home. ( but not without the start line giving Glen a hoot as he sailed across the line.) OMG what were they thinking up there? Glen RAF'd after this, but put up with some good natured chaffing about his great finish.
Then the easterlies began to swirl around us and we realized that there was a small chance that someone might actually make it over the line in time.... Hells bells! Nerrima is still out there. Sure enough they got a finish and it was just in time. Aloha was across the line after it closed, but well sailed them anyway.
So for results. Nerrima 1st and the rest of us were officially 2nd, but received the mandatory 7 points for a non finish. Given that it was Nerrima's first outing it hasn't hurt anyone so officially Aloha leads the consistency with Anna second and Soraya third. On Championship points The First Jindarra leads with Anna second and Swiftsure Saga third.
Many thanks to Les from Nerrima, who couldn't help but pass on the photo of the winning team of Nerrima and the flags. Photo's courtesy of Gina Pickering.
Saw Bella out on the water with the Freshie fleet sporting the numbers RF 128. Many thanks to the owners of Bella for keeping that number. It helps keep her alive.
A note on Wednesday the 18th. As I was away in Albany, Brian and Lockie took Mariner out and withdrew before the start with the cabin deck collapsing around the mast, leaning the mast forward. Continuing on would have very likely dropped the stick. Not a good thought. At present she is under repair with a solid base being added to the cabin top going underneath the tabernacle to spread the load of the mast.
Have look at the pictures.
with a side note on Wednesday the 18th of November
That's good enough for me!
Six boats went out today, with Anna, Wynella, The First Jindarra and Swiftsure Saga carrying kites. Nerrima (welcome back Les) with a novice crew and Andrew Minto and Aloha. With the temperatures soaring into the high 30's the welcome nor easter was keeping us cool while it blew, but as the day wore on, so the breeze dropped out. A course 4 was on offer; generally given for light wind occasions, but the starters were prepared to stick it out..... right to the bitter end.
The battle began in earnest after rounding the day buoy, with Anna and Jindarra getting away well, with a run up to Deepwater on offer under kites. Smart work by Wynella had them draw ahead and the battle recommenced between the three with Anna losing out. Then up popped Swiftsure who had gone out to get clear air ( he does this quite regularly) and joined the battle. Across to Hallmark and then another kite run to Armstrong with gybes thrown in for good measure.
Then the troubles started as the beat back to Print and the conflict with the Freshie fleet left some boats pushed well out of their way. Anna found themselves in a " committed" position and threaded the needle through the on coming fleet. Others weren't so lucky. Then the breeze dropped and if you were on the northern side you were in strife. Vale Swiftsure and Wynella. Anna was left to challenge Jindarra and the closer we got, the better we felt on the second lap down wind to Deepwater. Jindarra went into the bay and gave away 100 meters but still retained a slender lead. Then the wind dropped even further and we could see Aloha and Nerrima making their way back up to Deepwater as we slowly worked our way down to Addison.
Then the wind gave up after Addison and we edged closer to Jindarra and for the first time, we were in the lead. It was 4.30 in the afternoon and the sun was burning off the water. Just then the start boat appeared, carrying an AP flag and honked imperiously twice.
"That's good enough for me." was the skippers remark and of one accord both the First Jindarra and Anna dropped their sagging spinnakers, fired up the engines and made their way home. We were not expecting any wind in the next hour or so and we got ourselves stowed away and headed up to Herreshoff Hill for some sorely needed refreshment. We were joined shortly after by Wynella and Swiftsure Saga who had like wise packed up and come home. ( but not without the start line giving Glen a hoot as he sailed across the line.) OMG what were they thinking up there? Glen RAF'd after this, but put up with some good natured chaffing about his great finish.
Then the easterlies began to swirl around us and we realized that there was a small chance that someone might actually make it over the line in time.... Hells bells! Nerrima is still out there. Sure enough they got a finish and it was just in time. Aloha was across the line after it closed, but well sailed them anyway.
So for results. Nerrima 1st and the rest of us were officially 2nd, but received the mandatory 7 points for a non finish. Given that it was Nerrima's first outing it hasn't hurt anyone so officially Aloha leads the consistency with Anna second and Soraya third. On Championship points The First Jindarra leads with Anna second and Swiftsure Saga third.
Many thanks to Les from Nerrima, who couldn't help but pass on the photo of the winning team of Nerrima and the flags. Photo's courtesy of Gina Pickering.
Saw Bella out on the water with the Freshie fleet sporting the numbers RF 128. Many thanks to the owners of Bella for keeping that number. It helps keep her alive.
A note on Wednesday the 18th. As I was away in Albany, Brian and Lockie took Mariner out and withdrew before the start with the cabin deck collapsing around the mast, leaning the mast forward. Continuing on would have very likely dropped the stick. Not a good thought. At present she is under repair with a solid base being added to the cabin top going underneath the tabernacle to spread the load of the mast.
Have look at the pictures.
Saturday the 14th of November. The Jim Leach Memorial Trophy
It all happened at Hallmark. Or Port and Starboard
A seriously grumpy person would have had words with the race officer from Freshie, who laid a start line right across a line between Dolphin West and Hallmark. Of course they don't know what courses our starters are getting the boats away on and may be our starters should have chosen a light winds course 4 instead of a course two that dropped our fleet into the Freshie startline.
As we roared across from Deepwater, trying to pick up Hallmark all that we could see was a wall of boats covering the entire area. Not a good way to get it together. Four boats were competing for the mark within 10 seconds of each other and upon hitting the start area we had to dodge the fleets and get to Hallmark as soon as we could pick it up in the snarl of boats around it. Swiftsure went the wrong way! Oops, its a port rounding, not a starboard rounding and had to correct it. Soraya was correctly around the mark and Wynella had to change their minds in a big hurry. Anna was trying hard not to get involved in all of this and the result was a flailing jib set that didn't look pretty. However Swiftsure Saga was called back and the chase down wind was on. Tight spinnaker sets that were close to the beam and dodging other fleets was just part of the game on the way down to Print and a bolt back up to Robins. By the way, Aloha had joined us on the race up and had chosen to go out wide and take the Western side of the course. Did well too. Not so much confusion in getting there.
So the chase began. Follow Soraya and keep Swiftsure off our tails. Sometimes you are lucky, sometimes you aren't. Soraya got away and Swiftsure Saga got in between us and Soraya on a down wind reach. And all the time Wynella was following along, secure in 4th place.
Soraya took the line with Swiftsure Saga second. Anna was third and the other two followed suit. However Aloha took first on handicap, bumping Soraya down to second etc. Well sailed Aloha and the bell ring was noticed. Pity that most of the gang had gone by then.... the beer wasn't wasted though. ( Nerrima went out for a tune up sail with her new bunch of recruits. Lovely to see. Hopefully Les will be back on the water shortly.)
It all happened at Hallmark. Or Port and Starboard
A seriously grumpy person would have had words with the race officer from Freshie, who laid a start line right across a line between Dolphin West and Hallmark. Of course they don't know what courses our starters are getting the boats away on and may be our starters should have chosen a light winds course 4 instead of a course two that dropped our fleet into the Freshie startline.
As we roared across from Deepwater, trying to pick up Hallmark all that we could see was a wall of boats covering the entire area. Not a good way to get it together. Four boats were competing for the mark within 10 seconds of each other and upon hitting the start area we had to dodge the fleets and get to Hallmark as soon as we could pick it up in the snarl of boats around it. Swiftsure went the wrong way! Oops, its a port rounding, not a starboard rounding and had to correct it. Soraya was correctly around the mark and Wynella had to change their minds in a big hurry. Anna was trying hard not to get involved in all of this and the result was a flailing jib set that didn't look pretty. However Swiftsure Saga was called back and the chase down wind was on. Tight spinnaker sets that were close to the beam and dodging other fleets was just part of the game on the way down to Print and a bolt back up to Robins. By the way, Aloha had joined us on the race up and had chosen to go out wide and take the Western side of the course. Did well too. Not so much confusion in getting there.
So the chase began. Follow Soraya and keep Swiftsure off our tails. Sometimes you are lucky, sometimes you aren't. Soraya got away and Swiftsure Saga got in between us and Soraya on a down wind reach. And all the time Wynella was following along, secure in 4th place.
Soraya took the line with Swiftsure Saga second. Anna was third and the other two followed suit. However Aloha took first on handicap, bumping Soraya down to second etc. Well sailed Aloha and the bell ring was noticed. Pity that most of the gang had gone by then.... the beer wasn't wasted though. ( Nerrima went out for a tune up sail with her new bunch of recruits. Lovely to see. Hopefully Les will be back on the water shortly.)
Wednesday the 11th of November Glad it's not an open top car!
Heading for home, I wheeled out of the yacht club and my trusty hard top Honda shuddered (literarily) as the windscreen and car took the load from a pelican on it's way home. Fortunately the drivers side was still clear, but I didn't dare switch on the windscreen wipers. It took 15 minutes under the hose to get the last of the guano off the car and the smell is still lingering on the lawn. Probably do the lawn all sorts of good.
The day it's self was excellent with a light west south westerly of about 15 knots at the top came in and bent around to the south as we progressed through the day. As may be expected, the starters sent us up to Martin Weaver and that was the maker/breaker of the day. Andrew Bell got in front and was not to be headed all day. We on the other hand had picked up a guest ( Jamie ) a pilot with Jet Star Asia and he was immediately put to work tailing for Ron.
We were a little behind Andrew and our battle was with Bill of Swiftsure Saga and we fought him off for most of the day. Meanwhile Kate was out on the water, battling with Glen Stanley and occasionally Judy Magee and Alma. So 6 H28's out on the water and a sprinkling of plastics to keep us honest. We've decided that Insatiable, a SS22 is to be elevated to the level of serious pest when he ducked inside us on the mark at Martin and cost us a crack at AB. But that's sailing for you.
The south westerly was working well and we went into the bay a couple of times to avoid the RP fleet, going in further than they did and were able to lay Applecross Spit nicely. As did Bill and Kate, both of whom made good gains on the other members of the fleet. Down winds were good with all members of the crew working well together. Though Kate did have a headsail fluttering moment on the first up wind.
Unfortunately all the good work laid in place went out the door when the triangle of death loomed and we put a loose cover on Bill and watched AB continue up to Print and then lay across the line to round Foam well ahead of us. Bill was surging and we had the unfortunate experience of a div 2 boat dusting us with bad air as we rounded Thelma so we tacked off and watched yet again as Bill who went along the shore, pick up a good lift and flop over the line in front of us.
Results were good for AB, who picked up a second and fastest, with Bill R taking home the bacon with first on handicap. Our third over the line earned us a 7th on handicap and Judy Magee took home a third on handicap (and not the last boat home either)
A note that I'm out of action for Wednesday sailing next week and will not be sailing on the 25th, but hope to be photographing on the water.
Heading for home, I wheeled out of the yacht club and my trusty hard top Honda shuddered (literarily) as the windscreen and car took the load from a pelican on it's way home. Fortunately the drivers side was still clear, but I didn't dare switch on the windscreen wipers. It took 15 minutes under the hose to get the last of the guano off the car and the smell is still lingering on the lawn. Probably do the lawn all sorts of good.
The day it's self was excellent with a light west south westerly of about 15 knots at the top came in and bent around to the south as we progressed through the day. As may be expected, the starters sent us up to Martin Weaver and that was the maker/breaker of the day. Andrew Bell got in front and was not to be headed all day. We on the other hand had picked up a guest ( Jamie ) a pilot with Jet Star Asia and he was immediately put to work tailing for Ron.
We were a little behind Andrew and our battle was with Bill of Swiftsure Saga and we fought him off for most of the day. Meanwhile Kate was out on the water, battling with Glen Stanley and occasionally Judy Magee and Alma. So 6 H28's out on the water and a sprinkling of plastics to keep us honest. We've decided that Insatiable, a SS22 is to be elevated to the level of serious pest when he ducked inside us on the mark at Martin and cost us a crack at AB. But that's sailing for you.
The south westerly was working well and we went into the bay a couple of times to avoid the RP fleet, going in further than they did and were able to lay Applecross Spit nicely. As did Bill and Kate, both of whom made good gains on the other members of the fleet. Down winds were good with all members of the crew working well together. Though Kate did have a headsail fluttering moment on the first up wind.
Unfortunately all the good work laid in place went out the door when the triangle of death loomed and we put a loose cover on Bill and watched AB continue up to Print and then lay across the line to round Foam well ahead of us. Bill was surging and we had the unfortunate experience of a div 2 boat dusting us with bad air as we rounded Thelma so we tacked off and watched yet again as Bill who went along the shore, pick up a good lift and flop over the line in front of us.
Results were good for AB, who picked up a second and fastest, with Bill R taking home the bacon with first on handicap. Our third over the line earned us a 7th on handicap and Judy Magee took home a third on handicap (and not the last boat home either)
A note that I'm out of action for Wednesday sailing next week and will not be sailing on the 25th, but hope to be photographing on the water.
Saturday the 7th of November Windward-Leeward racing
The first of the two W-L sessions on the water.
The day was not as forecast and despite the call of 20 to 25 knots, it was a Southerly that greeted us with a strength in the low 15's and with pockets of slow as the day progressed. Not to say it didn't pick up later on, but we were off the water by then.
With 4 boats on the water, the competition was between Soraya, Swiftsure Saga and Anna. Aloha joined us on the water shortly after and though they ran a jib and main only, at least they were there. (Aloha did very well on handicap by the way)
The first race was a triangle/sausage with an upwind finish. A good start was vital and Anna got away to a cracker of a start with Soraya and SSS behind us. The dash up to the top mark then across to the wing mark was clean and the spinnaker hoist was strong with the other boats performing similarly. Gybing at the wing mark was not a requirement until we had gone on a way as the wind was swinging into the South and we were able to run part way down the course under the same pole setting. However the oscillation kicked in and a gybe was required. The next run was up and down with a guess to see which side the kite was to be on. And then not avoiding the start line...... we got ticked off by the starters about that, but no one protested us, so on we went. To the bottom turn and go into the north west to find a starboard ley line. Can't afford to tack too many times with these boats. Kills your speed and loses time. Over the line first with Soraya second and Swiftsure Saga next. Aloha sailed well enough to pick up 1st on handicap with Anna second and Soraya third.
A similar course for the second race had a different start result with Soraya and SSS getting away and a fine battle between the two resulting in them taking the lead until the last lap when Bill on SSS managed to get behind Soraya by enough to give Anna a chance on the run up to the flag. Soraya had the height and the speed to roll us on the finish line and beat Anna by a second, but again Aloha was scoring well on handicap. They picked up a second for the race and currently share the lead with Anna at 16 points apiece on consistency. Bill RIchards and his team had an interesting day with a broken vang and various other bits and pieces going awry, but team work and skill on the foredeck was what counted and the battle was strong all the way through the day. A camera was on the back of Anna for the day and I'll work on the video from that over the next week or two to see what can come of it.
Not many pix today. I was busy.
The first of the two W-L sessions on the water.
The day was not as forecast and despite the call of 20 to 25 knots, it was a Southerly that greeted us with a strength in the low 15's and with pockets of slow as the day progressed. Not to say it didn't pick up later on, but we were off the water by then.
With 4 boats on the water, the competition was between Soraya, Swiftsure Saga and Anna. Aloha joined us on the water shortly after and though they ran a jib and main only, at least they were there. (Aloha did very well on handicap by the way)
The first race was a triangle/sausage with an upwind finish. A good start was vital and Anna got away to a cracker of a start with Soraya and SSS behind us. The dash up to the top mark then across to the wing mark was clean and the spinnaker hoist was strong with the other boats performing similarly. Gybing at the wing mark was not a requirement until we had gone on a way as the wind was swinging into the South and we were able to run part way down the course under the same pole setting. However the oscillation kicked in and a gybe was required. The next run was up and down with a guess to see which side the kite was to be on. And then not avoiding the start line...... we got ticked off by the starters about that, but no one protested us, so on we went. To the bottom turn and go into the north west to find a starboard ley line. Can't afford to tack too many times with these boats. Kills your speed and loses time. Over the line first with Soraya second and Swiftsure Saga next. Aloha sailed well enough to pick up 1st on handicap with Anna second and Soraya third.
A similar course for the second race had a different start result with Soraya and SSS getting away and a fine battle between the two resulting in them taking the lead until the last lap when Bill on SSS managed to get behind Soraya by enough to give Anna a chance on the run up to the flag. Soraya had the height and the speed to roll us on the finish line and beat Anna by a second, but again Aloha was scoring well on handicap. They picked up a second for the race and currently share the lead with Anna at 16 points apiece on consistency. Bill RIchards and his team had an interesting day with a broken vang and various other bits and pieces going awry, but team work and skill on the foredeck was what counted and the battle was strong all the way through the day. A camera was on the back of Anna for the day and I'll work on the video from that over the next week or two to see what can come of it.
Not many pix today. I was busy.
Wednesday the 4th of November
Six lousy seconds and the lift that we wanted. ( but didn't get )
Lets start at the finish shall we?
On a lovely day for sailing with the wind out of the south west and about 12 to 15 knots, Mariner had the lead and had held it all day. We had worked to get as far ahead as possible so that the challenger behind us would not break the time barrier and grab the handicap win. We had to be a minute, more or less, in front to get the win and our lead at Foam for the last triangle for the day was just that. Across to Print, down to Como and off to Thelma where we ran along the foreshore in the approved fashion, lifting a little but in no trouble with the shallowing bottom. We rolled the boat over and headed for the line and then the skipper started to groan as we saw the boats behind us on an almighty lift to the line, carving seconds off their finish time as they surged forward. "Bugger" said the skipper, but we took the line and the gun with relish. First over the line is a win no matter what.
The start was good and we hit the line with a number of others in tow, but slightly ahead and in clean air. Andrew Bell had snaffled Les Swinton as a guest trimmer and had Vic Court on the main. You really couldn't have a better combination on a boat. Cunning, cool heads and match racing expertise. Apparently Les sailed with Corella in the Colhoughn days and was quite familiar with the boats. For our luck, we had managed to grab Les Brooker as a guest trimmer and very useful a man he turned out to be. Knowledgeable and adept on the sheets he knew what was wanted without asking twice. The ladies from Soraya were out on the water and Bill Richards was certainly there even though he was (again) malingering at the middle of the fleet. Glen had his usual crew and Judith was out on the water with Andrew Minto and I think her husband Neil. Apart from that we had a fair sprinkling of SS22's and Peter Lewis of Crossroads was in fine form, eventually finishing 3rd and 3rd.
The wind started in the WSW and there wasn't enough lift in the bay to take the rocket ship trip up to Applecross spit and just graze the mark on the way up to Deepwater. Some went out to the starboard ley early in the piece and didn't really get much out of it, others went in and ricocheted out off the bay to a close by starboard ley to Deepwater. Getting around the mark, it was then a matter of a pole and read the gusts coming down the breeze and there the experience of Les and Vic came to the fore, constantly maneuvering to get the advantage where possible. Still we rounded Print ahead and the up wind was the winner for us again. This time the sou wester was working and the lift in the bay took us right up to Robins and a fine reach across to Dolphin East.
Well you know the rest and we were happy with a second on handicap. Kate and the ladies on Soraya are becoming competitive and sailed to a creditable 4th and 4th on handicap. I think that the introduction of Kristina has made the difference as she sails regularly with her hubby on their f15 and is competitive as hell.
Not too many pix. I was busy.
Six lousy seconds and the lift that we wanted. ( but didn't get )
Lets start at the finish shall we?
On a lovely day for sailing with the wind out of the south west and about 12 to 15 knots, Mariner had the lead and had held it all day. We had worked to get as far ahead as possible so that the challenger behind us would not break the time barrier and grab the handicap win. We had to be a minute, more or less, in front to get the win and our lead at Foam for the last triangle for the day was just that. Across to Print, down to Como and off to Thelma where we ran along the foreshore in the approved fashion, lifting a little but in no trouble with the shallowing bottom. We rolled the boat over and headed for the line and then the skipper started to groan as we saw the boats behind us on an almighty lift to the line, carving seconds off their finish time as they surged forward. "Bugger" said the skipper, but we took the line and the gun with relish. First over the line is a win no matter what.
The start was good and we hit the line with a number of others in tow, but slightly ahead and in clean air. Andrew Bell had snaffled Les Swinton as a guest trimmer and had Vic Court on the main. You really couldn't have a better combination on a boat. Cunning, cool heads and match racing expertise. Apparently Les sailed with Corella in the Colhoughn days and was quite familiar with the boats. For our luck, we had managed to grab Les Brooker as a guest trimmer and very useful a man he turned out to be. Knowledgeable and adept on the sheets he knew what was wanted without asking twice. The ladies from Soraya were out on the water and Bill Richards was certainly there even though he was (again) malingering at the middle of the fleet. Glen had his usual crew and Judith was out on the water with Andrew Minto and I think her husband Neil. Apart from that we had a fair sprinkling of SS22's and Peter Lewis of Crossroads was in fine form, eventually finishing 3rd and 3rd.
The wind started in the WSW and there wasn't enough lift in the bay to take the rocket ship trip up to Applecross spit and just graze the mark on the way up to Deepwater. Some went out to the starboard ley early in the piece and didn't really get much out of it, others went in and ricocheted out off the bay to a close by starboard ley to Deepwater. Getting around the mark, it was then a matter of a pole and read the gusts coming down the breeze and there the experience of Les and Vic came to the fore, constantly maneuvering to get the advantage where possible. Still we rounded Print ahead and the up wind was the winner for us again. This time the sou wester was working and the lift in the bay took us right up to Robins and a fine reach across to Dolphin East.
Well you know the rest and we were happy with a second on handicap. Kate and the ladies on Soraya are becoming competitive and sailed to a creditable 4th and 4th on handicap. I think that the introduction of Kristina has made the difference as she sails regularly with her hubby on their f15 and is competitive as hell.
Not too many pix. I was busy.
Saturday the 31st of October
4 boats on the water.
On what would otherwise be a superb day for sailing, 4 H28's hit the water. Probably not the best day to brag about fleet size!
We had a lovely WSW of 10 to 12 knots with the promise of the wind bending and building from the south as the day progressed. A snap decision by the skippers gave us a JAM race with only one boat having the capacity to fly a serious kite. Whether this message was relayed onto the start boat or not by the chair of the fleet is a little uncertain, but our hail of the start boat and a request for a course four seemed to do the trick and away we went.
Aloha seemed to be bent on sailing their course, so the other three boats, Anna, Wynella and Swiftsure Saga took off with Wynella with Vic Court as second helm on board, attempting to roll over the top of Anna on the line and Swiftsure Saga just behind Anna. A couple of tacks had the boats loosening up and dipping into Waylen Bay, looking for the lift up to Applecross Spit. It wasn't working this early in the day, but still gave us a clean run and a starboard lay line into Deepwater. By this time, the challenge was on from Wynella and Glen who has found the groove was pushing the boat hard to keep up with us. SSsaga had disappeared off the face of the earth and speaking to Bill RIchards later on, he said that they tacked off looking for pressure in the middle and for the rest of the day, they found every knock and lull that the river had to offer. In the mean time, Aloha had joined the procession up the river again, having realized that going right wasn't going to pay off and stuck doggedly to the course as offered.
The down wind was the challenge for us, for this is when Glen handed the helm to master blaster Vic Court who has been know to cause a lot of trouble on down wind legs. So, trouble he was, for the first downwind and very nearly had us on the run to Print. Fortunately we got around Print in front and started to use John's legendary skill to pinch his way up the course while maintaining his speed. If we could expand the gap between us up wind, then the down winds were not going to be such a problem.
And so it proved to be, but one mad moment on the second leg down wind when a Melges sports boat decided to dive between the two competing boats (a gap of some 10 meters) caused John Wright to mutter under his breath as the asymmetric spinnaker came perilously close to the backstays on our boat. (See the photo)
The finish of the day had the breeze in the south and beginning to pump and the rest of the race was trying to create a big enough gap to see us through the last down wind leg and across to Thelma. We were helped by Wynella having wrapped their jib around the forestay after Addison on the second leg up to Deepwater and the gap grew steadily. Then the third leg was Deepwater, via Dolphin East to Addison and a reach to Thelma. The southerly was in far enough to let us run along the freeway after Thelma and a simple leg up to the start line and a tack across the line got us home first over the line, but not far enough it appeared, as the final results had us third on handicap. Wynella got a good second and second over the line and Bill Richards held out for a third over the line and fourth on handicap. Aloha took the handicap win and her second win in a row with Neil and Judith Magee on board, garnering experience for their new yacht Alma.
Will the handicapper please take note.
4 boats on the water.
On what would otherwise be a superb day for sailing, 4 H28's hit the water. Probably not the best day to brag about fleet size!
We had a lovely WSW of 10 to 12 knots with the promise of the wind bending and building from the south as the day progressed. A snap decision by the skippers gave us a JAM race with only one boat having the capacity to fly a serious kite. Whether this message was relayed onto the start boat or not by the chair of the fleet is a little uncertain, but our hail of the start boat and a request for a course four seemed to do the trick and away we went.
Aloha seemed to be bent on sailing their course, so the other three boats, Anna, Wynella and Swiftsure Saga took off with Wynella with Vic Court as second helm on board, attempting to roll over the top of Anna on the line and Swiftsure Saga just behind Anna. A couple of tacks had the boats loosening up and dipping into Waylen Bay, looking for the lift up to Applecross Spit. It wasn't working this early in the day, but still gave us a clean run and a starboard lay line into Deepwater. By this time, the challenge was on from Wynella and Glen who has found the groove was pushing the boat hard to keep up with us. SSsaga had disappeared off the face of the earth and speaking to Bill RIchards later on, he said that they tacked off looking for pressure in the middle and for the rest of the day, they found every knock and lull that the river had to offer. In the mean time, Aloha had joined the procession up the river again, having realized that going right wasn't going to pay off and stuck doggedly to the course as offered.
The down wind was the challenge for us, for this is when Glen handed the helm to master blaster Vic Court who has been know to cause a lot of trouble on down wind legs. So, trouble he was, for the first downwind and very nearly had us on the run to Print. Fortunately we got around Print in front and started to use John's legendary skill to pinch his way up the course while maintaining his speed. If we could expand the gap between us up wind, then the down winds were not going to be such a problem.
And so it proved to be, but one mad moment on the second leg down wind when a Melges sports boat decided to dive between the two competing boats (a gap of some 10 meters) caused John Wright to mutter under his breath as the asymmetric spinnaker came perilously close to the backstays on our boat. (See the photo)
The finish of the day had the breeze in the south and beginning to pump and the rest of the race was trying to create a big enough gap to see us through the last down wind leg and across to Thelma. We were helped by Wynella having wrapped their jib around the forestay after Addison on the second leg up to Deepwater and the gap grew steadily. Then the third leg was Deepwater, via Dolphin East to Addison and a reach to Thelma. The southerly was in far enough to let us run along the freeway after Thelma and a simple leg up to the start line and a tack across the line got us home first over the line, but not far enough it appeared, as the final results had us third on handicap. Wynella got a good second and second over the line and Bill Richards held out for a third over the line and fourth on handicap. Aloha took the handicap win and her second win in a row with Neil and Judith Magee on board, garnering experience for their new yacht Alma.
Will the handicapper please take note.
Wednesday the 28th of October Sometimes it just works.
And welcome to Alma.
Getting out on the water was a pain in the backside after Sailability this morning, but the promise of a west south westerly of 12 to 15 knots was solace enough to sooth the aches and pains of falling off the cabin of a Redwitch into the cockpit. No harm done, just my dignity was a little ruffled. Thanks to those that came to my aid.
The usual crews arrived and with 5 boats from jetty 3 and Alma joining us from jetty six we set off on a course one. The start was toward Sampson and we had the fortune of going a little deeper on the start line and had to concede with good grace the honour of first to Sampson to the First Jindarra, as they rolled over us on the way through. Swinging out wide, we came in tight to the wind and pushed Bill out to the left and waited for the breeze to catch us and take us up to the north side of the river. There was no way we were looking for a lift in the bay so the fastest boats were racing through the middle of the river, calculating angles on the way up to Deepwater.
Just one dip into Applecross around Robins and then out for a look at a starboard ley line to Deepwater. With Swiftsure Saga and The First Jindarra in front of us, we could only follow them and wait for the down wind section to Print. Kate and Soraya were close behind and Glen with Wynella following up. All still close behind and Alma was not too far behind them either. The closest plastic boat was mid fleet and we were set for a heavy weather handicap like it or not.
Getting through Bill and Andrew was interesting as we were taken up beyond Print by the boys in an effort to break our inside overlap, but good sailing kept us in touch and we had the overlap where it counted. Getting around Print was fine and when tightening the foot of the sail a loud bang occurred and the recently replaced whipping on the outhaul parted company requiring some fast work (and bad knots) to get it going again. Fortunately the skipper was able to get the leach tightened up to give him the height we were losing and we kept our lead and height.
Vic Court had gone out with Andrew Bell for the day and was given the helm for some of the racing and in his words "Every time we looked like losing, Andrew handed me the helm and asked me to do my best". Otherwise the event was then a chase for the finish, with the run up to Robins and across to Dolphin East as a good test of the crew as we worked on the boat to keep the speed up in the slowly diminishing breeze. Around the start line and off to Sampson, then back into the small triangle of Foam, Print, Como and Thelma.
It didn't do our handicap any good and the lowest handicap in C fleet got the chocolates, but we were happy with a second on handicap and first over the line. Bill and Swiftsure Saga took a second over the line and a 5th with AB third over the line and 4th on handicap. A point to consider was that Alma was not last, finishing 9th over the line and given a reasonable handicap (which she does not have at present) could have been a placing too.
Re Last Saturday: I was away on photographic duties all weekend and I congratulate Anna ( John Wright ) for taking first on the line with Phil Lammonby second and Bill Richards third. Of course Aloha took the cake by going out and promptly taking first on handicap. Glen Stanley looked as though he wasn't using a kite either, so he came in 4th over the line. Well sailed all.
And welcome to Alma.
Getting out on the water was a pain in the backside after Sailability this morning, but the promise of a west south westerly of 12 to 15 knots was solace enough to sooth the aches and pains of falling off the cabin of a Redwitch into the cockpit. No harm done, just my dignity was a little ruffled. Thanks to those that came to my aid.
The usual crews arrived and with 5 boats from jetty 3 and Alma joining us from jetty six we set off on a course one. The start was toward Sampson and we had the fortune of going a little deeper on the start line and had to concede with good grace the honour of first to Sampson to the First Jindarra, as they rolled over us on the way through. Swinging out wide, we came in tight to the wind and pushed Bill out to the left and waited for the breeze to catch us and take us up to the north side of the river. There was no way we were looking for a lift in the bay so the fastest boats were racing through the middle of the river, calculating angles on the way up to Deepwater.
Just one dip into Applecross around Robins and then out for a look at a starboard ley line to Deepwater. With Swiftsure Saga and The First Jindarra in front of us, we could only follow them and wait for the down wind section to Print. Kate and Soraya were close behind and Glen with Wynella following up. All still close behind and Alma was not too far behind them either. The closest plastic boat was mid fleet and we were set for a heavy weather handicap like it or not.
Getting through Bill and Andrew was interesting as we were taken up beyond Print by the boys in an effort to break our inside overlap, but good sailing kept us in touch and we had the overlap where it counted. Getting around Print was fine and when tightening the foot of the sail a loud bang occurred and the recently replaced whipping on the outhaul parted company requiring some fast work (and bad knots) to get it going again. Fortunately the skipper was able to get the leach tightened up to give him the height we were losing and we kept our lead and height.
Vic Court had gone out with Andrew Bell for the day and was given the helm for some of the racing and in his words "Every time we looked like losing, Andrew handed me the helm and asked me to do my best". Otherwise the event was then a chase for the finish, with the run up to Robins and across to Dolphin East as a good test of the crew as we worked on the boat to keep the speed up in the slowly diminishing breeze. Around the start line and off to Sampson, then back into the small triangle of Foam, Print, Como and Thelma.
It didn't do our handicap any good and the lowest handicap in C fleet got the chocolates, but we were happy with a second on handicap and first over the line. Bill and Swiftsure Saga took a second over the line and a 5th with AB third over the line and 4th on handicap. A point to consider was that Alma was not last, finishing 9th over the line and given a reasonable handicap (which she does not have at present) could have been a placing too.
Re Last Saturday: I was away on photographic duties all weekend and I congratulate Anna ( John Wright ) for taking first on the line with Phil Lammonby second and Bill Richards third. Of course Aloha took the cake by going out and promptly taking first on handicap. Glen Stanley looked as though he wasn't using a kite either, so he came in 4th over the line. Well sailed all.
Wednesday the 21st of October Who let Lockie out?
Or " A comedy of errors"
A great day on the water with 12 to 15 knots of a WSW that turned into the classic Sou Wester, albeit a little light on for pressure.
Six boats again hit the water and with Bill Richards being short of crew Lockie was dragged on board Swiftsure Saga on the condition that Lockie got to drive. Wrong move Bill..... It's going to wreck your handicap.
We took off on a Martin Weaver start with the firm idea of staying below the contestants at the box end and succeeded in getting a good start second only to Andrew Bell with the Jin. We managed to close out Lockie/Bill at Martin and kept in front until the turn at Sampson, where again we closed the door on him and forced him to tack off toward the club again. Wrong move...... he crossed the creek early and was lifting up into Heathcote and then on the other side of the tack he crossed the fleet nailing both us and Andrew. Kate and the girls were not far behind as was Glen on Wynella.
On the run up to Deepwater it was clear that the middle was not working for us and going in to Frenchies was the call, so we did, but possibly not far enough as by the time we looked up, John Wright had slipped past and the girls had edged us out as well (where the competitive streak is coming from no one knows, but they've got it now.) A run out to a starboard lay was the next step, then the worst happened with a near coming together with Andrew stopping us from getting that extra 10 meters in and horrors abounded as we got around almost last. The run down to Print was easy enough and helped us close the gap to the rest and a fair rounding had us looking into Frenchies again. Still not deep enough and around Robins we went.
We heard the horn go as the first of the Div one boats hit the line, so we knew we were on a shortened course so it was important to keep our speed up to get to the line quickly. Kate had gone way out into the north hoping for breeze to take her up but maybe the golden rule of crossing the creek on a sou westerly wasn't fresh on her mind. So it was chase the fleet and head for home.... the skipper was ready for a beer and I can't blame him, but it's much tastier once the boat is de-rigged and put away. The discussion was animated afterwards and I'm sure that questions will be raised about the handicapping (again). FIrst and Fastest was Swiftsure Saga with Lockie at the helm and the Jin got second and second. Anna was third over the line, but with the heaviest handicap in the H28 fleet he slid down to equal 7th with Brian Cross's Mariner.
As a matter of interest it was a heavy wind handicap day and one of the SS22's got up for 3rd.
Or " A comedy of errors"
A great day on the water with 12 to 15 knots of a WSW that turned into the classic Sou Wester, albeit a little light on for pressure.
Six boats again hit the water and with Bill Richards being short of crew Lockie was dragged on board Swiftsure Saga on the condition that Lockie got to drive. Wrong move Bill..... It's going to wreck your handicap.
We took off on a Martin Weaver start with the firm idea of staying below the contestants at the box end and succeeded in getting a good start second only to Andrew Bell with the Jin. We managed to close out Lockie/Bill at Martin and kept in front until the turn at Sampson, where again we closed the door on him and forced him to tack off toward the club again. Wrong move...... he crossed the creek early and was lifting up into Heathcote and then on the other side of the tack he crossed the fleet nailing both us and Andrew. Kate and the girls were not far behind as was Glen on Wynella.
On the run up to Deepwater it was clear that the middle was not working for us and going in to Frenchies was the call, so we did, but possibly not far enough as by the time we looked up, John Wright had slipped past and the girls had edged us out as well (where the competitive streak is coming from no one knows, but they've got it now.) A run out to a starboard lay was the next step, then the worst happened with a near coming together with Andrew stopping us from getting that extra 10 meters in and horrors abounded as we got around almost last. The run down to Print was easy enough and helped us close the gap to the rest and a fair rounding had us looking into Frenchies again. Still not deep enough and around Robins we went.
We heard the horn go as the first of the Div one boats hit the line, so we knew we were on a shortened course so it was important to keep our speed up to get to the line quickly. Kate had gone way out into the north hoping for breeze to take her up but maybe the golden rule of crossing the creek on a sou westerly wasn't fresh on her mind. So it was chase the fleet and head for home.... the skipper was ready for a beer and I can't blame him, but it's much tastier once the boat is de-rigged and put away. The discussion was animated afterwards and I'm sure that questions will be raised about the handicapping (again). FIrst and Fastest was Swiftsure Saga with Lockie at the helm and the Jin got second and second. Anna was third over the line, but with the heaviest handicap in the H28 fleet he slid down to equal 7th with Brian Cross's Mariner.
As a matter of interest it was a heavy wind handicap day and one of the SS22's got up for 3rd.
Saturday the 17th of October The First round of the Championships.
A lonely day on the water.
Six boats rolled up for the first of the championship rounds. Swiftsure Saga, The First Jindarra, Anna, Soraya, Wynella and Aloha.
With this info duly taken on board, we looked carefully at the opposition. The Jin, SSsaga and Anna were going to be in contention, with Soraya and Wynella as serious chances for handicap wins. Aloha with her novice crew have to shake down into a fighting unit and break in their young helmsman Drew so that he can handle the long course one, meanwhile sharing it with Dad Andrew Minto is a good idea. However their handicap will be in their favour and the latter half of the year can be looked at as a good chance for them. Les Brooker is still trying to get his crew back on deck as they have scattered to the four winds and Lockie is not sailing this summer as the boat is due to undergo serious work (I believe).
A great sailing day was in front of us with a 12 to 15 knot westerly that progressed into the south west as the day moved on. There were occasional holes, but in the main a great sailing breeze. We were given a course one and set off from the line with The First Jindarra getting away well. Anna and Soraya began battle with Wynella as Glen was showing sparkling form on the way up managing to drive his boat through both boats on the cross and once past us on Anna on the up wind. Great racing. However the biggest loser award has to go to SSsaga as they wandered off onto the other side of the river (they were missing Big John who's in Honkers at the moment) and although he had sufficient crew was a little reluctant to throw up a kite until the last leg.
With the long course in effect, it was a case of get up to Brickies and twice we were unlucky enough to just miss it and have to tack and re tack to make it. But each time we stayed ahead of Phil on Soraya and our down wind was sufficient to break away from Soraya and indeed catch up with AB on the Jin. Not sufficiently well enough though.
On the second time up to Brickies, the Royal Freshwater Bay fleet hove into view and it was with interest I noted both Te Hana and Bella out on the water and racing. Both two up and C division flags out, it was the opening day for Freshie and it was a great day on the water. I've got some photos of them on the water as well.
So around the corner at Brickies and down to Addison with our new foredeckie sweating blood on the drop (not really, he coped very well I thought). The next lap was the run to Deepwater and we went deep into the bay near Frenchy's and picked up a good lift to take us up to Applecross Spit. Good one and a short tack over to Deepwater and down to Dolphin East on a port pole with a gybe at the mark and away to Addison again. Another clean drop and then off to Thelma and home.
The championship win went to The First Jindarra and Andrew could possibly thank the dynamite crew he had on board { Bruce (Argo & Carina) Mark (Calm) and Brian (Mariner) }. second went to Anna and third over the line was Soraya. On handicap, Glen (Wynella) took first with Ralph Newton looking after his foredeck, Phil Lammonby, second and Anna took third.
(Glen is really going to have to look hard at his handicap. He's winning too many. That's two in a row.)
There is talk of setting up a cruising division to complement the racing division. with Karoleeya's fine effort last year in the retro racing there is room for this. Keep this under discussion.
A lonely day on the water.
Six boats rolled up for the first of the championship rounds. Swiftsure Saga, The First Jindarra, Anna, Soraya, Wynella and Aloha.
With this info duly taken on board, we looked carefully at the opposition. The Jin, SSsaga and Anna were going to be in contention, with Soraya and Wynella as serious chances for handicap wins. Aloha with her novice crew have to shake down into a fighting unit and break in their young helmsman Drew so that he can handle the long course one, meanwhile sharing it with Dad Andrew Minto is a good idea. However their handicap will be in their favour and the latter half of the year can be looked at as a good chance for them. Les Brooker is still trying to get his crew back on deck as they have scattered to the four winds and Lockie is not sailing this summer as the boat is due to undergo serious work (I believe).
A great sailing day was in front of us with a 12 to 15 knot westerly that progressed into the south west as the day moved on. There were occasional holes, but in the main a great sailing breeze. We were given a course one and set off from the line with The First Jindarra getting away well. Anna and Soraya began battle with Wynella as Glen was showing sparkling form on the way up managing to drive his boat through both boats on the cross and once past us on Anna on the up wind. Great racing. However the biggest loser award has to go to SSsaga as they wandered off onto the other side of the river (they were missing Big John who's in Honkers at the moment) and although he had sufficient crew was a little reluctant to throw up a kite until the last leg.
With the long course in effect, it was a case of get up to Brickies and twice we were unlucky enough to just miss it and have to tack and re tack to make it. But each time we stayed ahead of Phil on Soraya and our down wind was sufficient to break away from Soraya and indeed catch up with AB on the Jin. Not sufficiently well enough though.
On the second time up to Brickies, the Royal Freshwater Bay fleet hove into view and it was with interest I noted both Te Hana and Bella out on the water and racing. Both two up and C division flags out, it was the opening day for Freshie and it was a great day on the water. I've got some photos of them on the water as well.
So around the corner at Brickies and down to Addison with our new foredeckie sweating blood on the drop (not really, he coped very well I thought). The next lap was the run to Deepwater and we went deep into the bay near Frenchy's and picked up a good lift to take us up to Applecross Spit. Good one and a short tack over to Deepwater and down to Dolphin East on a port pole with a gybe at the mark and away to Addison again. Another clean drop and then off to Thelma and home.
The championship win went to The First Jindarra and Andrew could possibly thank the dynamite crew he had on board { Bruce (Argo & Carina) Mark (Calm) and Brian (Mariner) }. second went to Anna and third over the line was Soraya. On handicap, Glen (Wynella) took first with Ralph Newton looking after his foredeck, Phil Lammonby, second and Anna took third.
(Glen is really going to have to look hard at his handicap. He's winning too many. That's two in a row.)
There is talk of setting up a cruising division to complement the racing division. with Karoleeya's fine effort last year in the retro racing there is room for this. Keep this under discussion.
Wednesday the 14th of October You can't be first all the time.
And the start of the two tiered handicap system.
The only way to lose a race is to win the race to Sampson and then tack off before you've gone far enough to the nor west.
Explanation..... A great start in a westerly of about 12 to 18 knots and a chance to out-drag every boat down to Sampson which we duly did. Going as high as we could after getting around Sampson, this forced everyone to slow or go low and only Andrew Bell was awake up to us as he moved to the outside and went around the fleet, using his forward momentum to work his way across the fleet and back into contention.
So up the r/h side we went with the skipper deciding to go a little earlier that we would have liked to. AB continued on and by the time he tacked he was well in front as we found ourselves on a loser by the time we hit the middle. Then we had to handle the Royal Perth Fleet as they came out to Foam. Getting rolled by Kate was unfortunate, but once on starboard we came through the RP fleet and watched Glen Stanley battle his way through a torrent of boats. By this time we had Bill on Swift sure Saga and AB with The First Jindarra in front of us and the girls panting on our heels. Not a good day out so far. And a main that was dropping down the mast.
Over to Hallmark and up to Armstrong and then away to Como with a brilliant battle between Bill and AB. We took ourselves down to the Outer start line got around the corner well with the plan of getting to Dolphin West faster than any one else. Unfortunately the girls were in top gear and rolled us again so we had to get our own back, fortunately managing to do so and rounded as third H28 at Dolphin West. Then onto Como, Thelma and home and another battle between Swiftsure Saga and The First Jindarra ensued. The conversation went something like this. AB, "why are you taking me up?" Bill's reply" Cause I can." Comes round, goes round Bill.
Anyway AB got in front and effectively lead for the rest of the race. The next job was to keep Kate off our tails and try to catch Bill as we had caught up quite well. No luck, but he lost a lot of time having to tack to the line and we managed to close the finishing time quite nicely.
First and Fastest Andrew Bell, Kate Lammonby sailed really well and took a second on handicap with Glen Stanley third on handicap. The SS22's finished well down the page. I'm sure that the handicaps will be adjusted
And the start of the two tiered handicap system.
The only way to lose a race is to win the race to Sampson and then tack off before you've gone far enough to the nor west.
Explanation..... A great start in a westerly of about 12 to 18 knots and a chance to out-drag every boat down to Sampson which we duly did. Going as high as we could after getting around Sampson, this forced everyone to slow or go low and only Andrew Bell was awake up to us as he moved to the outside and went around the fleet, using his forward momentum to work his way across the fleet and back into contention.
So up the r/h side we went with the skipper deciding to go a little earlier that we would have liked to. AB continued on and by the time he tacked he was well in front as we found ourselves on a loser by the time we hit the middle. Then we had to handle the Royal Perth Fleet as they came out to Foam. Getting rolled by Kate was unfortunate, but once on starboard we came through the RP fleet and watched Glen Stanley battle his way through a torrent of boats. By this time we had Bill on Swift sure Saga and AB with The First Jindarra in front of us and the girls panting on our heels. Not a good day out so far. And a main that was dropping down the mast.
Over to Hallmark and up to Armstrong and then away to Como with a brilliant battle between Bill and AB. We took ourselves down to the Outer start line got around the corner well with the plan of getting to Dolphin West faster than any one else. Unfortunately the girls were in top gear and rolled us again so we had to get our own back, fortunately managing to do so and rounded as third H28 at Dolphin West. Then onto Como, Thelma and home and another battle between Swiftsure Saga and The First Jindarra ensued. The conversation went something like this. AB, "why are you taking me up?" Bill's reply" Cause I can." Comes round, goes round Bill.
Anyway AB got in front and effectively lead for the rest of the race. The next job was to keep Kate off our tails and try to catch Bill as we had caught up quite well. No luck, but he lost a lot of time having to tack to the line and we managed to close the finishing time quite nicely.
First and Fastest Andrew Bell, Kate Lammonby sailed really well and took a second on handicap with Glen Stanley third on handicap. The SS22's finished well down the page. I'm sure that the handicaps will be adjusted
Saturday the 10th of October A JaM race to begin with.
"I'm running out of luck" Quote from Glen Stanley after winning on handicap again.
Only five boats got out onto the water today. Looking about we acknowledged that Vic is now out of action with a knee replacement due. Corella is due to come up to get some hard work done on the hull and Alma's owners are still getting their sea legs. Georgina has been taken for a run every so often, but Tony seems to be a little short of crew as well. Karoleeya, since Steve's departure, has rested quietly on Jetty 4 and the crew again have been lost to sight. Les Brooker was a little down in the mouth as his crew decided to disappear on him for the weekend. Though he joined us for a beer afterwards.
Where are the crew from these idle boats? We can use them!
However, it is with pleasure that I announce that Aloha took to the water on Saturday helmed by Andrew Minto with a swag of friends, including Sharon ( X Georgina ). They were welcomed onto the race track.
The skippers made a quick decision to Jib and Main the race with the starters being advised of the same. Great, a shorter race (course 4 shortened) and enough people to get the boats out. Many thanks to Brian Cross who came down to work on his boat and joined Glen as did Big John from Swiftsure Saga.
Very little pain getting around the rather smoky course, though sorting out who was going to be first around Deepwater took some doing, with no real lift out of the bay as the breeze was mainly in the west. Anna managed to get in front of Soraya and then took Bill Richards prior to Deepwater. On a reach, we shot across to Hallmark leading Bill and from then up to Armstrong where we managed to let Bill through down wind on the way to Print. In the meantime, Soraya and Wynella were keeping company (much of this due I suspect to the bloke on the mainsheet) and from then it was a follow me race with no changes possible, though we did give it a try at the finish line as Bill fell foul of the contrary winds at the mouth of the Canning.... making it over the line a few seconds in front of us. Meanwhile Soraya and Wynella had tightened up their finish and there wasn't much in it between them. Aloha was a while behind, but it was still a learning day for them. Another few races and they may very well be doing well.
Results. Well, Bill was first over the line, but Glen took the chocolates again with Anna taking second and second. Phil Lammonby had a third and third with Glen's fourth over the line and a generous handicap being enough to get him to the top again.
"I'm running out of luck" Quote from Glen Stanley after winning on handicap again.
Only five boats got out onto the water today. Looking about we acknowledged that Vic is now out of action with a knee replacement due. Corella is due to come up to get some hard work done on the hull and Alma's owners are still getting their sea legs. Georgina has been taken for a run every so often, but Tony seems to be a little short of crew as well. Karoleeya, since Steve's departure, has rested quietly on Jetty 4 and the crew again have been lost to sight. Les Brooker was a little down in the mouth as his crew decided to disappear on him for the weekend. Though he joined us for a beer afterwards.
Where are the crew from these idle boats? We can use them!
However, it is with pleasure that I announce that Aloha took to the water on Saturday helmed by Andrew Minto with a swag of friends, including Sharon ( X Georgina ). They were welcomed onto the race track.
The skippers made a quick decision to Jib and Main the race with the starters being advised of the same. Great, a shorter race (course 4 shortened) and enough people to get the boats out. Many thanks to Brian Cross who came down to work on his boat and joined Glen as did Big John from Swiftsure Saga.
Very little pain getting around the rather smoky course, though sorting out who was going to be first around Deepwater took some doing, with no real lift out of the bay as the breeze was mainly in the west. Anna managed to get in front of Soraya and then took Bill Richards prior to Deepwater. On a reach, we shot across to Hallmark leading Bill and from then up to Armstrong where we managed to let Bill through down wind on the way to Print. In the meantime, Soraya and Wynella were keeping company (much of this due I suspect to the bloke on the mainsheet) and from then it was a follow me race with no changes possible, though we did give it a try at the finish line as Bill fell foul of the contrary winds at the mouth of the Canning.... making it over the line a few seconds in front of us. Meanwhile Soraya and Wynella had tightened up their finish and there wasn't much in it between them. Aloha was a while behind, but it was still a learning day for them. Another few races and they may very well be doing well.
Results. Well, Bill was first over the line, but Glen took the chocolates again with Anna taking second and second. Phil Lammonby had a third and third with Glen's fourth over the line and a generous handicap being enough to get him to the top again.
Wednesday the 7th of October First Day of the Summer season.
It's all in the finish....
The day started with the tail end of a nor easter that was sufficient enough to get all the fleets under way, though the work up to Sampson on a course 4 ( light winds ) was a sod. Dropping in and out, the breeze finally popped up on the freeway side and the smart ones were already there waiting for the lift. Again Glen Stanley got away to a great start and was clear of the fleet as he shot off to the western side, ready to tack across. Kate and John Wright followed but Kate delayed her tack until she found the mud near Heathcote and her race was consequently over before she and her gang of girls had really started.
We had decided on a moderate approach and hung out on the left hand side, picking up lifts that took us all the way to Sampson, but oh so slowly. Alongside of us were a couple of SS22's who were also struggling in the light pressure.
Getting to Sampson we flicked around in reasonable pressure and hung the pole out ready for use, but stayed on the reach with the wind abeam. It was now the time to search for pressure, but there wasn't much to find as we ran down to Robins amongst the division two boats we had found ourselves amongst.
Making Robins we rounded with most of the fleet in front of us and then found our own bit of breeze, passing Bill Richards and John Wright in the process, leaving the SS22's behind as well and only the 1st Jindarra and Crossroads in front. Turning at Dolphin East we headed for Como in a zephyr that took us toward the mark. Andrew Bell in the mean time had gone out to the North looking to be closer to the breeze ( if it came ) and a couple of hundred yards short of Como we were looking good. Then Andrew's breeze arrived and he took off. Our breeze had disappeared by this time and we watched helplessly as he came closer only to run out of puff short of Como. John Wright had caught the corner of the same breeze so he and Andrew were heading to the freeway to try and find the special that runs down the shoreline.
We were watching boats in front picking up a south westerly and further to the left nearer the Canning, they were on an easterly. Behind us we had a new northerly building. WTF. By now all the fleets had made it to Como and had fallen into the dead water. 30 odd boats were trying to set their sails according to the breeze they could see and the massed finish was going to test the starters considerably.
And the breeze came in with the northerly influence dominating until the finish line. Andrew and John were in a ding dong battle for the line with Andrew getting the nod by maybe half a boat. In the mass of boats hitting the line we took a third but it was only a second in front of the eventual winner of the day, the little yellow SS22 Wildfire, who managed to cross at the pin end and was actually seen by the starters to do so.
Handicaps came into play and Andrew Bell took a second and fastest with Bill Richards taking third on handicap ( he wasn't far behind us ).
7 H28's graced the water today and we also had a visit from John Forsyth president of the H28 Association of Australia and owner of the Walker designed ketch rigged "Gumnut" of Blairgowrie on the Mornington Peninsular. Many thanks for his visit and it's a pity he wasn't able to come for a sail with us. Perhaps another time.
It's all in the finish....
The day started with the tail end of a nor easter that was sufficient enough to get all the fleets under way, though the work up to Sampson on a course 4 ( light winds ) was a sod. Dropping in and out, the breeze finally popped up on the freeway side and the smart ones were already there waiting for the lift. Again Glen Stanley got away to a great start and was clear of the fleet as he shot off to the western side, ready to tack across. Kate and John Wright followed but Kate delayed her tack until she found the mud near Heathcote and her race was consequently over before she and her gang of girls had really started.
We had decided on a moderate approach and hung out on the left hand side, picking up lifts that took us all the way to Sampson, but oh so slowly. Alongside of us were a couple of SS22's who were also struggling in the light pressure.
Getting to Sampson we flicked around in reasonable pressure and hung the pole out ready for use, but stayed on the reach with the wind abeam. It was now the time to search for pressure, but there wasn't much to find as we ran down to Robins amongst the division two boats we had found ourselves amongst.
Making Robins we rounded with most of the fleet in front of us and then found our own bit of breeze, passing Bill Richards and John Wright in the process, leaving the SS22's behind as well and only the 1st Jindarra and Crossroads in front. Turning at Dolphin East we headed for Como in a zephyr that took us toward the mark. Andrew Bell in the mean time had gone out to the North looking to be closer to the breeze ( if it came ) and a couple of hundred yards short of Como we were looking good. Then Andrew's breeze arrived and he took off. Our breeze had disappeared by this time and we watched helplessly as he came closer only to run out of puff short of Como. John Wright had caught the corner of the same breeze so he and Andrew were heading to the freeway to try and find the special that runs down the shoreline.
We were watching boats in front picking up a south westerly and further to the left nearer the Canning, they were on an easterly. Behind us we had a new northerly building. WTF. By now all the fleets had made it to Como and had fallen into the dead water. 30 odd boats were trying to set their sails according to the breeze they could see and the massed finish was going to test the starters considerably.
And the breeze came in with the northerly influence dominating until the finish line. Andrew and John were in a ding dong battle for the line with Andrew getting the nod by maybe half a boat. In the mass of boats hitting the line we took a third but it was only a second in front of the eventual winner of the day, the little yellow SS22 Wildfire, who managed to cross at the pin end and was actually seen by the starters to do so.
Handicaps came into play and Andrew Bell took a second and fastest with Bill Richards taking third on handicap ( he wasn't far behind us ).
7 H28's graced the water today and we also had a visit from John Forsyth president of the H28 Association of Australia and owner of the Walker designed ketch rigged "Gumnut" of Blairgowrie on the Mornington Peninsular. Many thanks for his visit and it's a pity he wasn't able to come for a sail with us. Perhaps another time.
Sunday the 4th of October 70th Opening Day Regatta
A day on the water.
And I do mean quite a while on the water.
We spent almost an hour and a quarter trundling up and down around the Canning River waiting for everything to happen. On the way I managed to get a few snaps in and enjoyed the chance to photograph other boats around me. At the same time it was fun to stir up the summer sailors.(those who come out once the sun does) There was a drone above us during the sail past so if it didn't go into the drink, then may be all will be available to us to view later on.
Ok, we had a nice breeze to sail on and just enough crew to get around. Glens crew had deserted him to sail elsewhere and Vic has declared himself a Wednesday sailor for the while as his crew problems have not abated. One of my delights was to see Aloha with the Minto family on board and young Drew at the helm. Mum and Dad were his crew and they had Judy Magee (Alma) on board as a guest, learning the ropes as so to say.
Eight H28's hit the water with the usual bunch of pirates, Anna, The First Jindarra, Swiftsure Saga, Soraya, Mariner, Corella and Nerrima welcoming Aloha out for the day. Another wooden boat SP 176 ( Adina by name) and owned by P Tait looked sharp on the water and though two up, was fast.
The order of the day was a run up to Robins, across to Hallmark and thence to Lucky Bay and back down wind to Squadron. Across to Bond and back up to Brickies A and B then a run down wind to Heathcote and the finish line. Thank goodness for a gusty nor wester that made us work hard on the almost continual reaches as a soldiers course developed. Winning the start was everything and at least two of us managed to be OCS having to return to dip the line. Still as the skipper remarked wryly... well that's one OCS out of the way this year. So playing catch up was the go again as Andrew Bell ran away with the lead and it was a battle between Phil Lammonby, Bill RIchards and David Locke for rights on the other places. As we were at the tail we had only the thought of getting someone behind us and fortunately we managed to over take a couple on the way. John Wright (Anna) sailed very well, but had not been registered by the club as a competitor (he'd been away on holiday). You have to take your hat off to Bill RIchards who was the other returnee. He came back, dipped the line and then took off to sail very well managing to get a second over the line, though on handicap he didn't fare that well. But at results it was a different story with Les Brookers crew pulling off another handicap win and earned the title of the "Grinners". Phil Lammonby took second on handicap and Brian Cross managed to pull off an heroic save of face by taking third on handicap.
Still I feel that the unsung hero of the day was young teenager Drew Minto who took the helm of an H28 and covered the course well with the assistance of his family and others. Not too many amongst us could say that they'd done the same at that age. And if the boat had had a decent handicap he'd have possibly featured in the results. Well sailed Drew
A day on the water.
And I do mean quite a while on the water.
We spent almost an hour and a quarter trundling up and down around the Canning River waiting for everything to happen. On the way I managed to get a few snaps in and enjoyed the chance to photograph other boats around me. At the same time it was fun to stir up the summer sailors.(those who come out once the sun does) There was a drone above us during the sail past so if it didn't go into the drink, then may be all will be available to us to view later on.
Ok, we had a nice breeze to sail on and just enough crew to get around. Glens crew had deserted him to sail elsewhere and Vic has declared himself a Wednesday sailor for the while as his crew problems have not abated. One of my delights was to see Aloha with the Minto family on board and young Drew at the helm. Mum and Dad were his crew and they had Judy Magee (Alma) on board as a guest, learning the ropes as so to say.
Eight H28's hit the water with the usual bunch of pirates, Anna, The First Jindarra, Swiftsure Saga, Soraya, Mariner, Corella and Nerrima welcoming Aloha out for the day. Another wooden boat SP 176 ( Adina by name) and owned by P Tait looked sharp on the water and though two up, was fast.
The order of the day was a run up to Robins, across to Hallmark and thence to Lucky Bay and back down wind to Squadron. Across to Bond and back up to Brickies A and B then a run down wind to Heathcote and the finish line. Thank goodness for a gusty nor wester that made us work hard on the almost continual reaches as a soldiers course developed. Winning the start was everything and at least two of us managed to be OCS having to return to dip the line. Still as the skipper remarked wryly... well that's one OCS out of the way this year. So playing catch up was the go again as Andrew Bell ran away with the lead and it was a battle between Phil Lammonby, Bill RIchards and David Locke for rights on the other places. As we were at the tail we had only the thought of getting someone behind us and fortunately we managed to over take a couple on the way. John Wright (Anna) sailed very well, but had not been registered by the club as a competitor (he'd been away on holiday). You have to take your hat off to Bill RIchards who was the other returnee. He came back, dipped the line and then took off to sail very well managing to get a second over the line, though on handicap he didn't fare that well. But at results it was a different story with Les Brookers crew pulling off another handicap win and earned the title of the "Grinners". Phil Lammonby took second on handicap and Brian Cross managed to pull off an heroic save of face by taking third on handicap.
Still I feel that the unsung hero of the day was young teenager Drew Minto who took the helm of an H28 and covered the course well with the assistance of his family and others. Not too many amongst us could say that they'd done the same at that age. And if the boat had had a decent handicap he'd have possibly featured in the results. Well sailed Drew
Wednesday the 30th of September The last day of the winter series.
Que sera sera
The day began with an almost perfect, light breeze out of the west that was threatening to go into the south west. The starters agreed and threw in a course four ( light winds ) and a run up to Canning Bridge to begin the day.
With only 8 boats in C fleet in was going to be super hard to bury both Wynella and Chelsea at the back and frankly the weather was not in our favour. A lighter day perhaps.... but there was enough to keep the H28's bowling along and with 10 to 14 knots it was champagne sailing.
Glen on Wynella got away to a great start and was first around Sampson. He elected to go out to the west as we did, but gradually the rest of the fleet peeled off over to Heathcote and we eventually went to cover Andrew Bell on the First Jindarra and the rest of the fleet. Lifting as we crossed the river we managed to sneak under Heathcote pushing Bill on Swiftsure Saga over onto port and forcing him to tack behind us as we continued on into the beach. Rolling over, we saw the rest of the fleet making their way over toward us and played hard to get with Andrew Bell and Bill Richards crossing them by a set of cats whiskers. Another tack had us looking at a line toward Robins and a chance to take the lead.
Merry shenanigans occurred at the mark and Bill came out on top and we followed him across to Dolphin East and a smart pole set gave us the impetus to get past him on the down wind. From there to Como and around the outer start line we led and the next work was the run up to Foam on the devils triangle. A good choice of course and a lucky lift took us directly to the mark. But it was a leaders race now and it was a matter of breaking the time bank. Impossible unfortunately. Despite a good run home and a minute and a half lead over the next boat, it was still not enough to put both Wynella and Chelsea behind us sufficiently on the scheme of things and even Kate had a smile on her dial as she picked up a third on handicap. Glen Stanley took a second on handicap for his trouble and Chelsea performed well enough to take first on handicap.
For the winter consistency series this was sufficient for Glen with Wynella and his regular crew of Rob Hawes and John Mewitt. A really good win sailed over 23 weeks of mainly light breezes A lot of credit has to go to these guys who have given Glen the ability to lift out of the groove he was in and it has been a pleasure watching them improve week by week. Now a new set of sails and a bottom scrub will set him up for summer I reckon. Chelsea was second overall and Mariner was third. Mr. Handicapper please take note.
We now go into the dual handicap system..........
Goings on:
I've met the new owners of Alma ( one of them anyway) Judith Magee. She and hubby Neil are keen to sail this summer and are looking for an experienced H28 sailor to mentor them. Put your hands up guys!
Apparently Les Brooker is coming over to Jetty 3 and Alma is going out to do 6 months on Jetty 6 until they sort out where she will end up.
Que sera sera
The day began with an almost perfect, light breeze out of the west that was threatening to go into the south west. The starters agreed and threw in a course four ( light winds ) and a run up to Canning Bridge to begin the day.
With only 8 boats in C fleet in was going to be super hard to bury both Wynella and Chelsea at the back and frankly the weather was not in our favour. A lighter day perhaps.... but there was enough to keep the H28's bowling along and with 10 to 14 knots it was champagne sailing.
Glen on Wynella got away to a great start and was first around Sampson. He elected to go out to the west as we did, but gradually the rest of the fleet peeled off over to Heathcote and we eventually went to cover Andrew Bell on the First Jindarra and the rest of the fleet. Lifting as we crossed the river we managed to sneak under Heathcote pushing Bill on Swiftsure Saga over onto port and forcing him to tack behind us as we continued on into the beach. Rolling over, we saw the rest of the fleet making their way over toward us and played hard to get with Andrew Bell and Bill Richards crossing them by a set of cats whiskers. Another tack had us looking at a line toward Robins and a chance to take the lead.
Merry shenanigans occurred at the mark and Bill came out on top and we followed him across to Dolphin East and a smart pole set gave us the impetus to get past him on the down wind. From there to Como and around the outer start line we led and the next work was the run up to Foam on the devils triangle. A good choice of course and a lucky lift took us directly to the mark. But it was a leaders race now and it was a matter of breaking the time bank. Impossible unfortunately. Despite a good run home and a minute and a half lead over the next boat, it was still not enough to put both Wynella and Chelsea behind us sufficiently on the scheme of things and even Kate had a smile on her dial as she picked up a third on handicap. Glen Stanley took a second on handicap for his trouble and Chelsea performed well enough to take first on handicap.
For the winter consistency series this was sufficient for Glen with Wynella and his regular crew of Rob Hawes and John Mewitt. A really good win sailed over 23 weeks of mainly light breezes A lot of credit has to go to these guys who have given Glen the ability to lift out of the groove he was in and it has been a pleasure watching them improve week by week. Now a new set of sails and a bottom scrub will set him up for summer I reckon. Chelsea was second overall and Mariner was third. Mr. Handicapper please take note.
We now go into the dual handicap system..........
Goings on:
I've met the new owners of Alma ( one of them anyway) Judith Magee. She and hubby Neil are keen to sail this summer and are looking for an experienced H28 sailor to mentor them. Put your hands up guys!
Apparently Les Brooker is coming over to Jetty 3 and Alma is going out to do 6 months on Jetty 6 until they sort out where she will end up.
Wednesday the 23rd of September Nice work, if you can get it.
We were discussing the requirements for the results of the winter consistency season and both the handicapper and Bill were of the opinion that we had to win both races with a first and fastest. Nods around the group showed that they were in agreement and we set off fully crewed (for once). Just have to get two fastest and firsts. Nice work etc.
Light winds nor easterly yet again and the starters had us heading off on a course 4 with a run down to Robins and over to Dolphin East. No thought of the Canning river shuffle thank goodness.
With a number of H28's in evidence and plenty of crew available, everyone took off with at least 3 on board and Kate had Peter on board, though he wasn't going to frock up to sail with the girls. The start line was interesting with the pin end the place to be and Andy Bell found out the hard way that sharing space with a SS22 is not good 40 seconds before the start. Kate was so enthusiastic about the start she managed to get on the wrong side of the line prior to the flag going up and had to duck back again. However the clever people took off at the box end (clear air again) and Glen and his crew got under way in good pressure with the plastic boat Chelsea close by their side.
We managed to get to the head of the pin end fleet and looked ahead at Sampson, trying work out the situation as there were holes in the breeze already and you could see the previous fleets wallowing in the water. Around Sampson and a starboard pole and it was on for all to try and pick the gusts as they came off the freeway and look for the chance of something coming out of the Canning. The skipper made a good call and took us a little closer to the West and hooray, off we went in a reasonable breeze as did the rest of the fleet in due course.
Getting to Robins, the next job was to find Dolphin East and from thence to Como, avoiding the RP fleet as they charged through. It was all steady reaching and we were in fine form having made it to the head of the fleet a while ago. Bill Richards and Andrew Bell were relaxing at the back of the fleet and were more concerned in getting in each others way rather than being at the front. By the time we hit the corner at outer start line something surprising had happened and Soraya (and the girls) had worked their way through the fleet (Peter the secret weapon? ) and were not that far behind. Given their handicap, they were a certainty to get first on handicap, but our problems were still with Glen and Chelsea as they were and are still our main rivals for the winter consistency championships.
Into the last round of the devils triangle and try to get ahead; time was important and would be the decider as to whether we got a second or a third. And there's no discounting Glen and his crew as they are just as thirsty for a consistency win as we are. So reach Thelma just in time to scare the daylights out of a group of feeding shags and head for the line.
We took the fastest and second ( and I'm not sure whether that was enough ) with Kate first on handicap and Chelsea third. Wynella took a 5th on handicap but still sits at the top of the ladder with three drops factored in. .
The current situation. One race left. At present Mariner has to finish 3 points ahead of Wynella and 1 point ahead of Chelsea and the weather predictions ( this far out ) are for another soft day. Bugger. Anything can happen. We'll be there. May the best H28 win!
Here is the link to sports page: http://www.sportspage.com.au/ and go to SoPYC Wednesday C division progressive results.
We were discussing the requirements for the results of the winter consistency season and both the handicapper and Bill were of the opinion that we had to win both races with a first and fastest. Nods around the group showed that they were in agreement and we set off fully crewed (for once). Just have to get two fastest and firsts. Nice work etc.
Light winds nor easterly yet again and the starters had us heading off on a course 4 with a run down to Robins and over to Dolphin East. No thought of the Canning river shuffle thank goodness.
With a number of H28's in evidence and plenty of crew available, everyone took off with at least 3 on board and Kate had Peter on board, though he wasn't going to frock up to sail with the girls. The start line was interesting with the pin end the place to be and Andy Bell found out the hard way that sharing space with a SS22 is not good 40 seconds before the start. Kate was so enthusiastic about the start she managed to get on the wrong side of the line prior to the flag going up and had to duck back again. However the clever people took off at the box end (clear air again) and Glen and his crew got under way in good pressure with the plastic boat Chelsea close by their side.
We managed to get to the head of the pin end fleet and looked ahead at Sampson, trying work out the situation as there were holes in the breeze already and you could see the previous fleets wallowing in the water. Around Sampson and a starboard pole and it was on for all to try and pick the gusts as they came off the freeway and look for the chance of something coming out of the Canning. The skipper made a good call and took us a little closer to the West and hooray, off we went in a reasonable breeze as did the rest of the fleet in due course.
Getting to Robins, the next job was to find Dolphin East and from thence to Como, avoiding the RP fleet as they charged through. It was all steady reaching and we were in fine form having made it to the head of the fleet a while ago. Bill Richards and Andrew Bell were relaxing at the back of the fleet and were more concerned in getting in each others way rather than being at the front. By the time we hit the corner at outer start line something surprising had happened and Soraya (and the girls) had worked their way through the fleet (Peter the secret weapon? ) and were not that far behind. Given their handicap, they were a certainty to get first on handicap, but our problems were still with Glen and Chelsea as they were and are still our main rivals for the winter consistency championships.
Into the last round of the devils triangle and try to get ahead; time was important and would be the decider as to whether we got a second or a third. And there's no discounting Glen and his crew as they are just as thirsty for a consistency win as we are. So reach Thelma just in time to scare the daylights out of a group of feeding shags and head for the line.
We took the fastest and second ( and I'm not sure whether that was enough ) with Kate first on handicap and Chelsea third. Wynella took a 5th on handicap but still sits at the top of the ladder with three drops factored in. .
The current situation. One race left. At present Mariner has to finish 3 points ahead of Wynella and 1 point ahead of Chelsea and the weather predictions ( this far out ) are for another soft day. Bugger. Anything can happen. We'll be there. May the best H28 win!
Here is the link to sports page: http://www.sportspage.com.au/ and go to SoPYC Wednesday C division progressive results.
Wednesday the 16th of September Stick in the mud.
It's always the way, that you discover just how far you can go into the freeway and then run along the edge hoping not to find the bottom. We did and though it cost us a lot of pride, the knock at the end of the start line was as devastating to John Wright as he had to go again and was caught by a SS27 that got inside him. Ok, that's the mea culpa out of the way.
The breeze was already working it's way into the south west as we took off and the starters had us on a course one with a run up to Martin Weaver. We got involved at the box end and were too busy pushing other boats up to realize that the clever ones were starting mid line in clear air and were on a course that would take them up to Martin without having to tack. The breeze settled down to a steady 12 knots and we followed the fleet up to Martin, pausing to tack on the way.
Tail end Charlie is a game we've played before, so it was no effort to get the boat into gear and chase the fleet, while watching a bull seal in Melville Water being attacked by seagulls as he devoured his catch on the surface. A fortunate work into the bay gave us the chance to get past John Wright and then our goal was to get the plastics behind us as well. The second dig into the bay got us up to Applecross spit and thence to Deepwater and we then had the run to Print under pole letting us get close to the leaders comprising of the serial plastic pest, The first Jindarra and Swiftsure Saga.
Around we went again, into the bay on a true South westerly and got a huge lift up to Robins that took us past the last of the plastics bar Chrysalis and as close as to the 2 H28's in front. Dolphin East loomed and a gybe took us to Como with the run to the outer start line clean and clear. But we were still chasing those three in front. The devils triangle loomed. Foam, Print and Thelma.
We watched Swiftsure Saga go left and pick up a huge gain, putting in him front of Jindarra. Nice one Bill! We followed our course and stayed ahead of Anna with 2nd Div from the RPYC fleet playing with the corner at Foam. Not a problem as we had passed through by then. Across to Print and then Thelma. Follow the freeway and then decide when to go.....go that little bit further and feel the keel touch as we went. Ooops!
Adjust the sails and get off the mud watching everyone in front battle with the huge knocks as they fought to the line. So go up as far as we could and roll with the knock as we aimed at the line.
Mean while Glen Stanley was charging toward the line, having taken a conservative tack early in the peace and found himself on the improve.
John Wright had become involved with a SS27 at the finish line and was held out, much to our relief. So we fell over the line just in time to record a 5th with Andrew Bell hitting the line in front of Bill Richards thanks to another knock that put him in the invidious position as third over the line. The plastics had caught up by now having watched the carnage as we fought to get to the line. They simply followed Glens line and did well. The handicap did the rest and the best on handicap was Glen Stanley recording a second over the line. Bill picked up a 4th and we picked up a 6th. Andrew Bell despite a good finish had 7th recorded against him and Anna took an 7th on the line and 8th on handicap.
Many thanks to JW for pointing out an administrative error in the marking of the finish. It took us up a couple of points.
The result of the meeting between the plastic fleet and the H28's has resulted in a decision to allow the provision of a split handicap system that kicks in for heavy weather and/or light weather. The plastics have adopted 10 knots as the dividing line and it's up to the club to make the call. Whether this is feasible has yet to be determined. Only time will tell. My thoughts would have set the bar higher as the plastics did well today and we were sailing right on the border of 9 to 12 knots. And it was a plastic day. The fomenter of the discussion has been approached to provide evidence of the dual handicap system and he has agreed to do so. More to come.
Welcome to Del Colhougn who sailed with Andrew Bell and brought a couple of visitors to join the boat. Kate was on board as well !
Apparently there was a drone in the air, I'll try and follow up on that... it's been seen before.
It's always the way, that you discover just how far you can go into the freeway and then run along the edge hoping not to find the bottom. We did and though it cost us a lot of pride, the knock at the end of the start line was as devastating to John Wright as he had to go again and was caught by a SS27 that got inside him. Ok, that's the mea culpa out of the way.
The breeze was already working it's way into the south west as we took off and the starters had us on a course one with a run up to Martin Weaver. We got involved at the box end and were too busy pushing other boats up to realize that the clever ones were starting mid line in clear air and were on a course that would take them up to Martin without having to tack. The breeze settled down to a steady 12 knots and we followed the fleet up to Martin, pausing to tack on the way.
Tail end Charlie is a game we've played before, so it was no effort to get the boat into gear and chase the fleet, while watching a bull seal in Melville Water being attacked by seagulls as he devoured his catch on the surface. A fortunate work into the bay gave us the chance to get past John Wright and then our goal was to get the plastics behind us as well. The second dig into the bay got us up to Applecross spit and thence to Deepwater and we then had the run to Print under pole letting us get close to the leaders comprising of the serial plastic pest, The first Jindarra and Swiftsure Saga.
Around we went again, into the bay on a true South westerly and got a huge lift up to Robins that took us past the last of the plastics bar Chrysalis and as close as to the 2 H28's in front. Dolphin East loomed and a gybe took us to Como with the run to the outer start line clean and clear. But we were still chasing those three in front. The devils triangle loomed. Foam, Print and Thelma.
We watched Swiftsure Saga go left and pick up a huge gain, putting in him front of Jindarra. Nice one Bill! We followed our course and stayed ahead of Anna with 2nd Div from the RPYC fleet playing with the corner at Foam. Not a problem as we had passed through by then. Across to Print and then Thelma. Follow the freeway and then decide when to go.....go that little bit further and feel the keel touch as we went. Ooops!
Adjust the sails and get off the mud watching everyone in front battle with the huge knocks as they fought to the line. So go up as far as we could and roll with the knock as we aimed at the line.
Mean while Glen Stanley was charging toward the line, having taken a conservative tack early in the peace and found himself on the improve.
John Wright had become involved with a SS27 at the finish line and was held out, much to our relief. So we fell over the line just in time to record a 5th with Andrew Bell hitting the line in front of Bill Richards thanks to another knock that put him in the invidious position as third over the line. The plastics had caught up by now having watched the carnage as we fought to get to the line. They simply followed Glens line and did well. The handicap did the rest and the best on handicap was Glen Stanley recording a second over the line. Bill picked up a 4th and we picked up a 6th. Andrew Bell despite a good finish had 7th recorded against him and Anna took an 7th on the line and 8th on handicap.
Many thanks to JW for pointing out an administrative error in the marking of the finish. It took us up a couple of points.
The result of the meeting between the plastic fleet and the H28's has resulted in a decision to allow the provision of a split handicap system that kicks in for heavy weather and/or light weather. The plastics have adopted 10 knots as the dividing line and it's up to the club to make the call. Whether this is feasible has yet to be determined. Only time will tell. My thoughts would have set the bar higher as the plastics did well today and we were sailing right on the border of 9 to 12 knots. And it was a plastic day. The fomenter of the discussion has been approached to provide evidence of the dual handicap system and he has agreed to do so. More to come.
Welcome to Del Colhougn who sailed with Andrew Bell and brought a couple of visitors to join the boat. Kate was on board as well !
Apparently there was a drone in the air, I'll try and follow up on that... it's been seen before.
Wednesday the 9th of September A strong breeze at last.
Finally the breeze came in. Not from the sou-west unfortunately, but a nor easter that was already cycling through the compass into the nor west. By the time we set off, the gusts were hitting 20 knots on top of 15 knots and with 5 h28's on the water ( where's Andrew and Vic? ) the racing was going to be good for the wooden fleet. Kate was noticed changing down to a # 2 and in retrospect it might have been why they stayed at the back. The rest of us had number ones up and given a reaching course it was the go.
Once again the start was everything and we were short of the line when the flag dropped on a course three. With only the girls next to us, we watched the rest of the fleet rocket off toward Sampson and we were on a beat up to the mark as the breeze was on our bow all the way up. Darned good speeds too, we were getting 6.5 to 7 knots on a beat and the main was ragging as I fought to get the high wind settings right on this new sail of ours. Mean while our guest trimmer ( Rob from Freshie ) was working just fine and Loz had stepped out to join us on the water for the day. Good to see and I hope that the next few weeks are manageable for her. Anyway I gave her the camera to record a few prestart shots, then forgot about it for the rest of the race.... too busy.
The run back to King after Sampson was almost a pole, but as we were hitting 8 knots, it was decided that a pole was superfluous to requirements. Then a quick turn and up to Robins with the speedo clocking 8.4 knots. Wooohooo! A couple of greenies when I was slow to let off on the sheets and a fair bit that came over the top. By the way, the time was 3 pm around now and if you have a look at the graph included in the slide show, you'll note the gust of 30+ knots that came through about now.... Yup , we were traveling fast. Still behind the lead 3 H28's but we had put the plastics and Kate behind us and Wynella was in our sights.
The drag race continued with Wynella falling behind us and the sight of Swiftsure Saga loomed ever larger as we roared down to Print and made ready to get up to Robins again. A careful gybe at Print had us aimed at Robins and all we could do is trim to the breeze and hang on as we shot up and then back down to Print again getting closer all the time. Another careful gybe at outer start line and then the dash to Sampson where thanks to a SS27 sailor we managed to slip in between the SS27 and the mark leaving Bill to go around. Now it was chase Anna and John Wright (who had David Locke's crew Rita on board). Up to Print and down to Addison with the run home fraught with danger as Bill was still close enough to pester us with his wind shadow. So we took him up onto the Heathcote flats where he asked the inevitable question of our skipper, "When will you go down". The response was, " When I'm ready to go".
We shook our tail off at Heathcote, just to hear the horn as John Wright hit the line and took second and fastest for the day. Well sailed Anna! Second over the line Mariner took a 5th on handicap with Bill RIchards third over the line and 4th on handicap and Glen Stanley first on handicap and 4th over the line. Kate and the girls were fifth over the line but took 3rd on handicap. With three races to go Wynella leads by two points from Mariner and Swiftsure Saga is another point back. Stay tuned. It's going to be interesting
A note: It was announced by the sailing captain, that due to rumbles from the SS22's and other like boats, div 3 was going to go into a dual handicap system. One for high winds and another for light winds. ( apparently ) The mechanism behind this was partially explained to me, but there seemed to be a little confusion in the system, so it needs further clarification in my opinion........ I wonder if this will spread into the other divisions on a Wednesday. Its always been known that the first part of summer has been the H28 season and the latter half was the lighter boats chance to take the cake.
Finally the breeze came in. Not from the sou-west unfortunately, but a nor easter that was already cycling through the compass into the nor west. By the time we set off, the gusts were hitting 20 knots on top of 15 knots and with 5 h28's on the water ( where's Andrew and Vic? ) the racing was going to be good for the wooden fleet. Kate was noticed changing down to a # 2 and in retrospect it might have been why they stayed at the back. The rest of us had number ones up and given a reaching course it was the go.
Once again the start was everything and we were short of the line when the flag dropped on a course three. With only the girls next to us, we watched the rest of the fleet rocket off toward Sampson and we were on a beat up to the mark as the breeze was on our bow all the way up. Darned good speeds too, we were getting 6.5 to 7 knots on a beat and the main was ragging as I fought to get the high wind settings right on this new sail of ours. Mean while our guest trimmer ( Rob from Freshie ) was working just fine and Loz had stepped out to join us on the water for the day. Good to see and I hope that the next few weeks are manageable for her. Anyway I gave her the camera to record a few prestart shots, then forgot about it for the rest of the race.... too busy.
The run back to King after Sampson was almost a pole, but as we were hitting 8 knots, it was decided that a pole was superfluous to requirements. Then a quick turn and up to Robins with the speedo clocking 8.4 knots. Wooohooo! A couple of greenies when I was slow to let off on the sheets and a fair bit that came over the top. By the way, the time was 3 pm around now and if you have a look at the graph included in the slide show, you'll note the gust of 30+ knots that came through about now.... Yup , we were traveling fast. Still behind the lead 3 H28's but we had put the plastics and Kate behind us and Wynella was in our sights.
The drag race continued with Wynella falling behind us and the sight of Swiftsure Saga loomed ever larger as we roared down to Print and made ready to get up to Robins again. A careful gybe at Print had us aimed at Robins and all we could do is trim to the breeze and hang on as we shot up and then back down to Print again getting closer all the time. Another careful gybe at outer start line and then the dash to Sampson where thanks to a SS27 sailor we managed to slip in between the SS27 and the mark leaving Bill to go around. Now it was chase Anna and John Wright (who had David Locke's crew Rita on board). Up to Print and down to Addison with the run home fraught with danger as Bill was still close enough to pester us with his wind shadow. So we took him up onto the Heathcote flats where he asked the inevitable question of our skipper, "When will you go down". The response was, " When I'm ready to go".
We shook our tail off at Heathcote, just to hear the horn as John Wright hit the line and took second and fastest for the day. Well sailed Anna! Second over the line Mariner took a 5th on handicap with Bill RIchards third over the line and 4th on handicap and Glen Stanley first on handicap and 4th over the line. Kate and the girls were fifth over the line but took 3rd on handicap. With three races to go Wynella leads by two points from Mariner and Swiftsure Saga is another point back. Stay tuned. It's going to be interesting
A note: It was announced by the sailing captain, that due to rumbles from the SS22's and other like boats, div 3 was going to go into a dual handicap system. One for high winds and another for light winds. ( apparently ) The mechanism behind this was partially explained to me, but there seemed to be a little confusion in the system, so it needs further clarification in my opinion........ I wonder if this will spread into the other divisions on a Wednesday. Its always been known that the first part of summer has been the H28 season and the latter half was the lighter boats chance to take the cake.
Wednesday the 2nd of September Antarctic Day on the water.
With the wind in the south east and a decent fleet, it was an easy guess that we get a run up toward Martin / Weaver. And so it was with fleets one and two getting a course two and fleet three scoring a course four ( light winds course ). And it was going to be a follow the leader track.
The start was going to be everything (again) and to be the first boat around Martin was imperative. So the pin end was crowded and closer to the breeze was the way to be. But not every one followed that theory and Crossroads and Kate and the girls decided to take a mid line start and had clear air right through to the first mark. Fortunately we had the speed as we came down to the mark and managed to get past Crossroads and Kate and the next issue was to make the line to the next mark (Weaver). As everyone did, we had to throw in another two tacks to get to Weaver, but once around we only had Chrysalis ahead of us and the rest of the fleet was engaged in the battle at the mark. So set sails and try to get a snap in or two.
Good pressure helped the fleet catch up, so reluctantly the camera was put down and sails were trimmed to the skippers satisfaction. We then took off with the change of gears and Sampson was our next target. Once around we set off to Robins, debating whether a pole was necessary fortunately not, but as I looked back I saw the tail enders of the fleet engaged with the Royal Perth Fleet and thanked our lucky stars that we and one or two others had escaped that problem. Chasing the gusts we bore down on Robins and then flicked over to another reach across to Dolphin East, scrambling all the time to keep on the heels of the plastic pest in front of us. A nice battle was in hand with Bill RIchards and Andy Bell in close contact and really that's where the action was, as Bills boat is decidedly faster down the breeze and on the reach.
The only work of the day was before us, the run to Como and then to the outer start line. We managed to get a way on these legs and it was a pity that two blocks of flats ( River Run and Courtesan ) messed with the fleet behind us, but we weren't fussed. They couldn't trouble us until we got around the outer start line and even then we'd take them up rather than let them roll over the top of us. And so it was, they went through below us and we made our way to Sampson untroubled. About then the screws on the tiller extension gave away, so a hasty repair job was put in place (thanks to plumbers tape) and on we went.
The small triangle was in place and with only Como and Thelma to go, the choice of going in deep to pick up the freeway special loomed. To go or not to go. We went early and tip toed over to Thelma on a dying breeze while the others went in deep and picked up the freeway express. Bill Richards was looming at our stern on the way home and with grateful sighs, we crossed the finish line in front of the rest of the fleet,
bar Chrysalis. Well sailed John Wright who picked up the handicap win, one second in front of Bill RIchards and to Kate and the girls in third place on handicap. We picked up an eighth on handicap and were a little put out as the three boats in contention for the winter consistency finished in front of us, changing the formula for the overall win. Just means we'll have to sail smarter over the next four races, cause the handicaps won't change from now on ( apparently ) Did I say that it was cold today?!
With the wind in the south east and a decent fleet, it was an easy guess that we get a run up toward Martin / Weaver. And so it was with fleets one and two getting a course two and fleet three scoring a course four ( light winds course ). And it was going to be a follow the leader track.
The start was going to be everything (again) and to be the first boat around Martin was imperative. So the pin end was crowded and closer to the breeze was the way to be. But not every one followed that theory and Crossroads and Kate and the girls decided to take a mid line start and had clear air right through to the first mark. Fortunately we had the speed as we came down to the mark and managed to get past Crossroads and Kate and the next issue was to make the line to the next mark (Weaver). As everyone did, we had to throw in another two tacks to get to Weaver, but once around we only had Chrysalis ahead of us and the rest of the fleet was engaged in the battle at the mark. So set sails and try to get a snap in or two.
Good pressure helped the fleet catch up, so reluctantly the camera was put down and sails were trimmed to the skippers satisfaction. We then took off with the change of gears and Sampson was our next target. Once around we set off to Robins, debating whether a pole was necessary fortunately not, but as I looked back I saw the tail enders of the fleet engaged with the Royal Perth Fleet and thanked our lucky stars that we and one or two others had escaped that problem. Chasing the gusts we bore down on Robins and then flicked over to another reach across to Dolphin East, scrambling all the time to keep on the heels of the plastic pest in front of us. A nice battle was in hand with Bill RIchards and Andy Bell in close contact and really that's where the action was, as Bills boat is decidedly faster down the breeze and on the reach.
The only work of the day was before us, the run to Como and then to the outer start line. We managed to get a way on these legs and it was a pity that two blocks of flats ( River Run and Courtesan ) messed with the fleet behind us, but we weren't fussed. They couldn't trouble us until we got around the outer start line and even then we'd take them up rather than let them roll over the top of us. And so it was, they went through below us and we made our way to Sampson untroubled. About then the screws on the tiller extension gave away, so a hasty repair job was put in place (thanks to plumbers tape) and on we went.
The small triangle was in place and with only Como and Thelma to go, the choice of going in deep to pick up the freeway special loomed. To go or not to go. We went early and tip toed over to Thelma on a dying breeze while the others went in deep and picked up the freeway express. Bill Richards was looming at our stern on the way home and with grateful sighs, we crossed the finish line in front of the rest of the fleet,
bar Chrysalis. Well sailed John Wright who picked up the handicap win, one second in front of Bill RIchards and to Kate and the girls in third place on handicap. We picked up an eighth on handicap and were a little put out as the three boats in contention for the winter consistency finished in front of us, changing the formula for the overall win. Just means we'll have to sail smarter over the next four races, cause the handicaps won't change from now on ( apparently ) Did I say that it was cold today?!
Wednesday the 26th of August Choosing the right line or where's the wind.
Starting with a nor easter staring us in the face again, we watched the first two fleets get away and decided that this time we were going to have to be the first boat ( H28 ) around Sampson. The choice of a light winds course was clear and it would be a followers course all the way around. Of course the down winds would offer some chance to catch up, but getting around the leader meant going out wide and hoping to pick up that gust and sail through them.
And so it was. With 7 H28's out on the water and an assortment of 5 plastics we had a strong fleet and we knew that a certain T. E. would get out in front and stay there. Our job was to come as close to him as possible and try not let any H28's past us. Anna was going to be a real challenge to us as JW was back and feeling fresh, though only two up he was going to push us. Andrew B was mourning a dirty hull and the affect it would have on his day, so we left him to feel sorry for himself and welcomed John ? who was driving Glen's boat Wynella with the presence of Max and the regular crew. Kate and the girls Heather and Michelle were out as well and set themselves up for a good snap of them on the way to Robins. Fortunately behind us.
To the start and with the forecast light winds out of the n.e. we got away with a solid start and found ourselves behind three plastics and leading the H28 fleet. By Sampson, we had settled in and with a pole up, we were working our way down the breeze with the occasional gybe to keep the rest of the fleet guessing and at the same time we managed to get one of the plastics back behind us. But you could have thrown a blanket over the run down wind ( albeit a large blanket ) and covered all 7 H28's. It was close.
The turn at Robins had us reaching across to Dolphin East and we were getting into a slightly better breeze as we set up for the run to Como and then to home. Not too many problems with the Royal fleet for us, though they did slide across the boats behind us. Nothing more than dodging was required and we did a bit ourselves as we came closer to Como. We had a feeling that they were going to end us on the first lap and so it was with an on station flag bobbing up and down to signal the fact. By this time the two plastics in front were so far in front it was a case of setting an egg timer on them. T E crossed the line 9 minutes in front of us and Crossroads was 6 and a half minutes behind him. We rolled over the line 3rd with John Wright doing a fine job to take 4th over the line and on handicap. TE took the first and fastest with Crossroads taking second and second. Not surprisingly the third on handicap was Stella Maris (on a super low handicap), who was still sailing home as we walked into the bar for results.
We picked up a 6th with Wynella taking 7th on handicap and Kate, Bill, Andrew and Vic in that order on handicap. The only disappointment was that TE dropped the port glasses before they got to the H28 table.
It's clear that we're looking forward to the south westerlies and the chance to get these plastic boats behind us, but until the place starts to warm up a little and the Doctor starts to twitch the halyards, we'll just have to sail to our best in light winds format.
Starting with a nor easter staring us in the face again, we watched the first two fleets get away and decided that this time we were going to have to be the first boat ( H28 ) around Sampson. The choice of a light winds course was clear and it would be a followers course all the way around. Of course the down winds would offer some chance to catch up, but getting around the leader meant going out wide and hoping to pick up that gust and sail through them.
And so it was. With 7 H28's out on the water and an assortment of 5 plastics we had a strong fleet and we knew that a certain T. E. would get out in front and stay there. Our job was to come as close to him as possible and try not let any H28's past us. Anna was going to be a real challenge to us as JW was back and feeling fresh, though only two up he was going to push us. Andrew B was mourning a dirty hull and the affect it would have on his day, so we left him to feel sorry for himself and welcomed John ? who was driving Glen's boat Wynella with the presence of Max and the regular crew. Kate and the girls Heather and Michelle were out as well and set themselves up for a good snap of them on the way to Robins. Fortunately behind us.
To the start and with the forecast light winds out of the n.e. we got away with a solid start and found ourselves behind three plastics and leading the H28 fleet. By Sampson, we had settled in and with a pole up, we were working our way down the breeze with the occasional gybe to keep the rest of the fleet guessing and at the same time we managed to get one of the plastics back behind us. But you could have thrown a blanket over the run down wind ( albeit a large blanket ) and covered all 7 H28's. It was close.
The turn at Robins had us reaching across to Dolphin East and we were getting into a slightly better breeze as we set up for the run to Como and then to home. Not too many problems with the Royal fleet for us, though they did slide across the boats behind us. Nothing more than dodging was required and we did a bit ourselves as we came closer to Como. We had a feeling that they were going to end us on the first lap and so it was with an on station flag bobbing up and down to signal the fact. By this time the two plastics in front were so far in front it was a case of setting an egg timer on them. T E crossed the line 9 minutes in front of us and Crossroads was 6 and a half minutes behind him. We rolled over the line 3rd with John Wright doing a fine job to take 4th over the line and on handicap. TE took the first and fastest with Crossroads taking second and second. Not surprisingly the third on handicap was Stella Maris (on a super low handicap), who was still sailing home as we walked into the bar for results.
We picked up a 6th with Wynella taking 7th on handicap and Kate, Bill, Andrew and Vic in that order on handicap. The only disappointment was that TE dropped the port glasses before they got to the H28 table.
It's clear that we're looking forward to the south westerlies and the chance to get these plastic boats behind us, but until the place starts to warm up a little and the Doctor starts to twitch the halyards, we'll just have to sail to our best in light winds format.
Wednesday the 19th of August A matter of circumstance
With past Commodore Rupert Leslie as our RO for the day we were in for a treat.
The course was correctly selected ( Course 2) and with the best part of 15 to 18 knots out of the WNW across our sails, we set off with Lockie at the helm and Rita looking after the number two as our regular crew ( Ron ) had a daughter giving birth to a child on the day. ( Priorities Ron).
The charge to the line was purposeful and we hit the line slightly below Swiftsure Saga and in good pace with her. Behind us were Vic Court and Glen Stanley and a couple of SS22's.
The charge up to Sampson had us much in the same order and hitting the corner the question was to go immediately or hang on for 50 meters or so. We went at Sampson and the run up to Nedlands was pretty good with the boat riding through the shifts and gaining to the mark. A couple of problems with the tail enders from B fleet, as one boat continually rounded up and at one stage flipped onto the other tack on the way up. We were wary of her from then on. As for the other... we just passed them.
The Hallmark/Armstrong double was completed with a shy pole set for the run down to Como and we settled into a down wind slide that kept Lockie on his toes as we hit 7.5 to 8 knots on the down wind. Meanwhile Rita and I had time to have a chat and enjoy the day. Then came Como and we hit the corner getting ready to go for the start line and the small loop to finish.
After Como, we headed for the outer start line and looked down river. It was a white out. Cricky! Then the gusts hit and running down wind with 4 tons of H28 became interesting. A snap poll was held and the result had us heading in. Bill Richards ( in front of us ) had already rounded and with his sheets in a tangle had no choice but keep going. Glen Stanley was sufficiently far enough behind to ride the gust out and make it around the start line. He did very well by the way... Second over the line and first on handicap. As for Bill, fastest and second on handicap. Everyone else retired.
The boss was duly notified and the Guinness that was left, put aside for another day.
The RO mentioned that the breezes were under 20 knots for the best part of the day and we only had a spike of 30 knots around 15.38 hrs .
I respect his observation, but it is known that the old start crew doesn't use the weather station at the start box because it's allegedly not correct.
With past Commodore Rupert Leslie as our RO for the day we were in for a treat.
The course was correctly selected ( Course 2) and with the best part of 15 to 18 knots out of the WNW across our sails, we set off with Lockie at the helm and Rita looking after the number two as our regular crew ( Ron ) had a daughter giving birth to a child on the day. ( Priorities Ron).
The charge to the line was purposeful and we hit the line slightly below Swiftsure Saga and in good pace with her. Behind us were Vic Court and Glen Stanley and a couple of SS22's.
The charge up to Sampson had us much in the same order and hitting the corner the question was to go immediately or hang on for 50 meters or so. We went at Sampson and the run up to Nedlands was pretty good with the boat riding through the shifts and gaining to the mark. A couple of problems with the tail enders from B fleet, as one boat continually rounded up and at one stage flipped onto the other tack on the way up. We were wary of her from then on. As for the other... we just passed them.
The Hallmark/Armstrong double was completed with a shy pole set for the run down to Como and we settled into a down wind slide that kept Lockie on his toes as we hit 7.5 to 8 knots on the down wind. Meanwhile Rita and I had time to have a chat and enjoy the day. Then came Como and we hit the corner getting ready to go for the start line and the small loop to finish.
After Como, we headed for the outer start line and looked down river. It was a white out. Cricky! Then the gusts hit and running down wind with 4 tons of H28 became interesting. A snap poll was held and the result had us heading in. Bill Richards ( in front of us ) had already rounded and with his sheets in a tangle had no choice but keep going. Glen Stanley was sufficiently far enough behind to ride the gust out and make it around the start line. He did very well by the way... Second over the line and first on handicap. As for Bill, fastest and second on handicap. Everyone else retired.
The boss was duly notified and the Guinness that was left, put aside for another day.
The RO mentioned that the breezes were under 20 knots for the best part of the day and we only had a spike of 30 knots around 15.38 hrs .
I respect his observation, but it is known that the old start crew doesn't use the weather station at the start box because it's allegedly not correct.
Wednesday the 12th of August Starboard! Starboard!
Once again the start team got it right with a nor easter blowing and occasional shifts into the west that were to confuse us, but no matter, we had been given a Martin-Weaver start with the fleets having to work their way against a strong river current and not much wind pressure to play with. In fact on our start we crossed the line three times as the current pushed us backwards across the line. And the starboard call? Well we were, like every one else, watching the fleets before us pushing up the river, getting to Martin and then failing miserably to get to Weaver with at least half of each fleet having to go again as they had not allowed for the current. And who was being called...... none other than Chrysalis helmed by Tony Edman. As he explained later he was too busy watching the fleets in trouble up the river.
Several loud bellows of starboard set him to rights and even the starters heard the call, though one wag in the start box later commented that they knew what the outcome would be.. A severely damaged plastic fantastic and an H28 owner having to repair the paintwork again.
So, making our way up the river toward Martin we knew that the longer we were able to stay out of the current in the middle the more forward motion we were able to get. So with the painful run out to the left done we tacked on a lift and worked our way across the river and stayed on that side as far as possible, getting past the jetties on the third tack and working our way into a big lift that took us past the moorings near the bridge and up into the middle of the current but way above Weaver. So we tacked and even then had to tack again, but went early to avoid the snarl of div. two boats as they fought to get back and around the mark. So around the mark and only Chrysalis in front.
The rest of the light winds course set us in play with a broad reach and flat water taking us to Robins and then back to I think Dolphin East. By this time we were running close to 4 o'clock and it was a monty that we were only going to do one lap. So the thinking was stay in front as far as possible. But Bill Richards Swiftsure Saga was catching up as were the rest of the plastic fleet and what ever we had was being diminished by the second. Even Vic Court was catching up as we hit soft spots in the breeze and traveled slower as a result. But the welcome sound of a div. one boat being given the hooter gave us renewed hope so we chased every gust profitably to remain in second place and first H28 over the line.
With our handicap we were reduced to 5th, but Bill Richards took a third and third with the day going to light wind specialist T.E and Chrysalis on first and fastest. I look forward to seeing Glen, Kate and Andrew back out on the water for some welcome competition.
Once again the start team got it right with a nor easter blowing and occasional shifts into the west that were to confuse us, but no matter, we had been given a Martin-Weaver start with the fleets having to work their way against a strong river current and not much wind pressure to play with. In fact on our start we crossed the line three times as the current pushed us backwards across the line. And the starboard call? Well we were, like every one else, watching the fleets before us pushing up the river, getting to Martin and then failing miserably to get to Weaver with at least half of each fleet having to go again as they had not allowed for the current. And who was being called...... none other than Chrysalis helmed by Tony Edman. As he explained later he was too busy watching the fleets in trouble up the river.
Several loud bellows of starboard set him to rights and even the starters heard the call, though one wag in the start box later commented that they knew what the outcome would be.. A severely damaged plastic fantastic and an H28 owner having to repair the paintwork again.
So, making our way up the river toward Martin we knew that the longer we were able to stay out of the current in the middle the more forward motion we were able to get. So with the painful run out to the left done we tacked on a lift and worked our way across the river and stayed on that side as far as possible, getting past the jetties on the third tack and working our way into a big lift that took us past the moorings near the bridge and up into the middle of the current but way above Weaver. So we tacked and even then had to tack again, but went early to avoid the snarl of div. two boats as they fought to get back and around the mark. So around the mark and only Chrysalis in front.
The rest of the light winds course set us in play with a broad reach and flat water taking us to Robins and then back to I think Dolphin East. By this time we were running close to 4 o'clock and it was a monty that we were only going to do one lap. So the thinking was stay in front as far as possible. But Bill Richards Swiftsure Saga was catching up as were the rest of the plastic fleet and what ever we had was being diminished by the second. Even Vic Court was catching up as we hit soft spots in the breeze and traveled slower as a result. But the welcome sound of a div. one boat being given the hooter gave us renewed hope so we chased every gust profitably to remain in second place and first H28 over the line.
With our handicap we were reduced to 5th, but Bill Richards took a third and third with the day going to light wind specialist T.E and Chrysalis on first and fastest. I look forward to seeing Glen, Kate and Andrew back out on the water for some welcome competition.
Wednesday the 5th of August The start team were right.
Happy to say that the start team set exactly the right course today. We had a nor easter and the options were either a course 2 (for a northerly) a course 3 ( East /West) to keep us on our toes or a course 1. For the uninitiated, a course one is the traditional sou wester course sailed frequently during summer, but with a nor easter it's perfect if the breeze doesn't shift around too much. And it didn't. We had 12 to 15 knots with good gusts during the early part of the race and the odd lull, but it meant that there were passing lanes right through the day.
Seen going out today were Andrew Bell, first time back for a while and with Vic on board as well... who's driving this one was the question? F15 sailor and a formidable RO at SoPYC, Kim Peaker was seen stepping onto Kate's Soraya with his wife and it was clear that he was going to make a difference. Simone Phasey was seen stepping onto Glens boat in the absence of one of his regulars and helped Glen on the day into a third on handicap. Lockie jumped on board Mariner at twenty past two, helping to raise the competency level of the boat as we roared out onto the water.
The preferred start was the pin end and on starboard and we were set for it, but a slow gybe 60 seconds before the start, had us behind the fleet and working the sails hard to get through the pack in front. By Sampson, we were pulling in the leaders and the long down wind run had us working the gusts as they came down the river. I had the distinct pleasure of seeing Andrew Bell running the foredeck of his H28 as Vic helmed. Kate was doing very well for the first part of the race and only seemed to lose pace after we had made our way to Deepwater and thence the work up to Print. At this time we had managed to shrug off most of the plastic boats as had Bill Richards and Andrew Bell and it was only the continuing presence of Chrysalis, who can never be discounted in breezes under 15 knots, keeping the three H28's company.
By Robins we had managed to establish a clean lead thanks to good advice from Lockie watching the gusts again and it was a case of should we have the first Guinness now? But the breeze was dropping and concentration was the key from now on and instead of going out on a limb we elected to stay pretty much on the centerline of the track, not trying to bang the corners in the chance of the "big shift". And it worked. By the time we passed around the start line for the first time we had a two minute lead over the next boat (Chrysalis) and further back Andrew Bell/Vic Court was maintaining their pace. Kate was doing very well at this stage and was quite close relatively in handicap thinking. So around the triangle of Foam, Print, Como and Thelma and head for home. No horn from the starters, but as we had started well in arrears we put it down to idiosyncratic behavior by the start team and kept going. Certainly the fastest, but not so certain about the handicap win.
And so it turned out. Kate picked up the handicap win and we managed to scramble across the handicap line for a second, 4 seconds in front of Glen Stanley who picked up third. However over the line Mariner, Chrysalis and then The First Jindarra. Well sailed all.
Happy to say that the start team set exactly the right course today. We had a nor easter and the options were either a course 2 (for a northerly) a course 3 ( East /West) to keep us on our toes or a course 1. For the uninitiated, a course one is the traditional sou wester course sailed frequently during summer, but with a nor easter it's perfect if the breeze doesn't shift around too much. And it didn't. We had 12 to 15 knots with good gusts during the early part of the race and the odd lull, but it meant that there were passing lanes right through the day.
Seen going out today were Andrew Bell, first time back for a while and with Vic on board as well... who's driving this one was the question? F15 sailor and a formidable RO at SoPYC, Kim Peaker was seen stepping onto Kate's Soraya with his wife and it was clear that he was going to make a difference. Simone Phasey was seen stepping onto Glens boat in the absence of one of his regulars and helped Glen on the day into a third on handicap. Lockie jumped on board Mariner at twenty past two, helping to raise the competency level of the boat as we roared out onto the water.
The preferred start was the pin end and on starboard and we were set for it, but a slow gybe 60 seconds before the start, had us behind the fleet and working the sails hard to get through the pack in front. By Sampson, we were pulling in the leaders and the long down wind run had us working the gusts as they came down the river. I had the distinct pleasure of seeing Andrew Bell running the foredeck of his H28 as Vic helmed. Kate was doing very well for the first part of the race and only seemed to lose pace after we had made our way to Deepwater and thence the work up to Print. At this time we had managed to shrug off most of the plastic boats as had Bill Richards and Andrew Bell and it was only the continuing presence of Chrysalis, who can never be discounted in breezes under 15 knots, keeping the three H28's company.
By Robins we had managed to establish a clean lead thanks to good advice from Lockie watching the gusts again and it was a case of should we have the first Guinness now? But the breeze was dropping and concentration was the key from now on and instead of going out on a limb we elected to stay pretty much on the centerline of the track, not trying to bang the corners in the chance of the "big shift". And it worked. By the time we passed around the start line for the first time we had a two minute lead over the next boat (Chrysalis) and further back Andrew Bell/Vic Court was maintaining their pace. Kate was doing very well at this stage and was quite close relatively in handicap thinking. So around the triangle of Foam, Print, Como and Thelma and head for home. No horn from the starters, but as we had started well in arrears we put it down to idiosyncratic behavior by the start team and kept going. Certainly the fastest, but not so certain about the handicap win.
And so it turned out. Kate picked up the handicap win and we managed to scramble across the handicap line for a second, 4 seconds in front of Glen Stanley who picked up third. However over the line Mariner, Chrysalis and then The First Jindarra. Well sailed all.
Wednesday the 29th of July Vic's Back
Yup, glad to announce that Vic Court was back on the water on Wednesday. His constant crew on the water, Geoff was busily setting up the boat as we wandered down the jetty and it was clear that the finishing touches had been done with possibly only a bit more of the toe rail to be put on. On another topic I was speaking to Steve Hill (Karoleeya) after sailing and he is leaving shortly to go to Sydney for a two year gig in the IT field. That's fast Steve... you've just got yourself and the boat working well and life is a little more easy, then fate deals you this one.
I've been assured by Steve that he's got some one to care for Karoleeya until his return and he will get back as soon as he can.
To the race.. A light nor easter that was bending into the west and light winds racing was the go. Which end of the line was the next question and how many tacks would be required to get to Sampson? We elected ( as did others ) to go the box end and managed to get a reasonable start. Care had to be taken to allow for the swift current that was coming down the Canning and had dragged one or two of the div. one and div. two boats over the line and into trouble. However it was a plastic sort of day and the incipient butterfly scooted off into the distance and gone and away by the time we found Sampson. Heading up to Robins it was really a drag race as we over took most of the plastics that had got ahead on the light stuff and we had Bill ( Swiftsure Saga ) on our tail to keep us on the go. The other H28's; Carina, Wynella and Karoleeya had decided to battle it out amongst themselves with only Vic getting away during the race.
Otherwise the biggest issue was that we were starting to catch up with Div. two and they were quite content to cart us up to what ever private hell they had in mind for us, so we were making a point of getting around them and back on the job. Surprisingly most of the boats were two up and only Karoleeya had three with Jay electing to be the galley wench for the race and keep the beers flowing.
So around the large triangle of Robins /Dolphin East and Como then back to the start line and then the small triangle of Foam/Print/Thelma. Back home to hear Chrysalis get the horn and then drive for the finish, glad to be the first H28 over the line.
Surprisingly we managed to get the handicap win with Bill Richards picking up a third over the line and a fourth on handicap. Well sailed all.
Yup, glad to announce that Vic Court was back on the water on Wednesday. His constant crew on the water, Geoff was busily setting up the boat as we wandered down the jetty and it was clear that the finishing touches had been done with possibly only a bit more of the toe rail to be put on. On another topic I was speaking to Steve Hill (Karoleeya) after sailing and he is leaving shortly to go to Sydney for a two year gig in the IT field. That's fast Steve... you've just got yourself and the boat working well and life is a little more easy, then fate deals you this one.
I've been assured by Steve that he's got some one to care for Karoleeya until his return and he will get back as soon as he can.
To the race.. A light nor easter that was bending into the west and light winds racing was the go. Which end of the line was the next question and how many tacks would be required to get to Sampson? We elected ( as did others ) to go the box end and managed to get a reasonable start. Care had to be taken to allow for the swift current that was coming down the Canning and had dragged one or two of the div. one and div. two boats over the line and into trouble. However it was a plastic sort of day and the incipient butterfly scooted off into the distance and gone and away by the time we found Sampson. Heading up to Robins it was really a drag race as we over took most of the plastics that had got ahead on the light stuff and we had Bill ( Swiftsure Saga ) on our tail to keep us on the go. The other H28's; Carina, Wynella and Karoleeya had decided to battle it out amongst themselves with only Vic getting away during the race.
Otherwise the biggest issue was that we were starting to catch up with Div. two and they were quite content to cart us up to what ever private hell they had in mind for us, so we were making a point of getting around them and back on the job. Surprisingly most of the boats were two up and only Karoleeya had three with Jay electing to be the galley wench for the race and keep the beers flowing.
So around the large triangle of Robins /Dolphin East and Como then back to the start line and then the small triangle of Foam/Print/Thelma. Back home to hear Chrysalis get the horn and then drive for the finish, glad to be the first H28 over the line.
Surprisingly we managed to get the handicap win with Bill Richards picking up a third over the line and a fourth on handicap. Well sailed all.
Wednesday the 22nd of July Four Lousy Seconds
Running a little late this week, it's normally up by Friday, but with one thing and another I'm a little behind the ball at the moment.
First of all, Vic's boat was up on the slips last week and a repair job was done on the bow and a new patch put into the deck. Vic was seen touching the paint gingerly to ensure it had gone off and was then heard lamenting about the bent spinnaker pole. Well, cut it and sleeve it Vic. The rubbing strakes will still have to be put back on and presumably the toe rails as well. But the boat is sailable and I'll get some pix of the repair work shortly. I believe Jay Lawry did the repair work. At the same time Bella was up on the slips and some work was being done on her as well. Certainly a new coat of anti foul and perhaps some coach work as well.
We have the welcome return of Mark Walter's Koomela to the club. As a former club boat she can apply for the old number SP37 (if it's available) and he has been seen on the water during the Frostbites. Good to see her back here again.
Andrew Bell has been missing in action recently and the recent passing of his mother has left him with tasks other than sailing. Our thoughts are with you Andrew in your period of sorrow.
The Wednesday was a nor easter with the promise of a bit of puff, plus as an added bonus we had the sail maker on board. And he was happy to do the trim and bow! Sadly the breeze was to drop out during the day, but our RO Kim Peaker was asking what courses we were used to on the river. The answer was anything you want to give us Kim, We know our flags, just get us away.
A course two was on offer and with the original impetus of 15 knots early in the day we got away to a great start with the sail maker getting us to gybe and gybe again, while keeping the boat going. Lovely... this is what I like. Aggression. The 5 H28's on the course for the day were Wynella, Mariner, Swiftsure Saga, Karoleeya and Soraya. The start was enough to get us into the lead by Sampson and it was then a case of the run to Hallmark down on the reach/ on the pole. Did I mention that it was raining? Light persistent stuff and the breeze was getting lighter by the minute. The run up to Armstrong had us consolidate the lead and for once Swiftsure Saga was at the back of the fleet, but knowing Bill he was only conserving himself for the dash at the finish. The three plastics had been left behind and it was only the lightness of the breeze that had us struggling for a while. Then on the run to Como from Armstrong, in came a westerly that roared. The bow man had elected to do a human pole and was coping quite well with it with one hand nonchalantly holding the sail out and grasping a beer at the same time in the light air. The rest of him was sprawled over the rail and deck. Quite comfortable he reported. Then the westerly breeze hit and away we went. A quick change of position had him still poling the sail out and resting his beer on the cabin top. 7.5 knots was reported on the GPS and for once we were pulling away from the boats behind us, even more so when we hit the corner and headed for the start line.
Back around Sampson and off to Dolphin West this time with the westerly dropping out and veering back into the north again. Ok, time to get conservative and count our seconds as Bill was starting to catch up as was the Space Sailor 22 known as Crossroads. So sail to get to the line as quickly as possible. Down to Print and then leave Como to starboard, a reach to Thelma and then a straight line to the finish. Damn, the two behind us were getting closer by the minute. Hit the line and then put the boat under wraps to settle down and discuss the race and other things.
Results had Crossroads first on handicap with Mariner 4 seconds behind and another plastic boat Chelsea third. Over the line Mariner, Swiftsure Saga and Crossroads. By the way our sail maker trimmer/bowman was none other that the helm of the Carkeek 47 Indian currently battling Tony and Astrid Mitchells TP52 Calm for over all first in the IRC state championships. Wish we had him for the rest of the season. Thanks for the day Paul.
Running a little late this week, it's normally up by Friday, but with one thing and another I'm a little behind the ball at the moment.
First of all, Vic's boat was up on the slips last week and a repair job was done on the bow and a new patch put into the deck. Vic was seen touching the paint gingerly to ensure it had gone off and was then heard lamenting about the bent spinnaker pole. Well, cut it and sleeve it Vic. The rubbing strakes will still have to be put back on and presumably the toe rails as well. But the boat is sailable and I'll get some pix of the repair work shortly. I believe Jay Lawry did the repair work. At the same time Bella was up on the slips and some work was being done on her as well. Certainly a new coat of anti foul and perhaps some coach work as well.
We have the welcome return of Mark Walter's Koomela to the club. As a former club boat she can apply for the old number SP37 (if it's available) and he has been seen on the water during the Frostbites. Good to see her back here again.
Andrew Bell has been missing in action recently and the recent passing of his mother has left him with tasks other than sailing. Our thoughts are with you Andrew in your period of sorrow.
The Wednesday was a nor easter with the promise of a bit of puff, plus as an added bonus we had the sail maker on board. And he was happy to do the trim and bow! Sadly the breeze was to drop out during the day, but our RO Kim Peaker was asking what courses we were used to on the river. The answer was anything you want to give us Kim, We know our flags, just get us away.
A course two was on offer and with the original impetus of 15 knots early in the day we got away to a great start with the sail maker getting us to gybe and gybe again, while keeping the boat going. Lovely... this is what I like. Aggression. The 5 H28's on the course for the day were Wynella, Mariner, Swiftsure Saga, Karoleeya and Soraya. The start was enough to get us into the lead by Sampson and it was then a case of the run to Hallmark down on the reach/ on the pole. Did I mention that it was raining? Light persistent stuff and the breeze was getting lighter by the minute. The run up to Armstrong had us consolidate the lead and for once Swiftsure Saga was at the back of the fleet, but knowing Bill he was only conserving himself for the dash at the finish. The three plastics had been left behind and it was only the lightness of the breeze that had us struggling for a while. Then on the run to Como from Armstrong, in came a westerly that roared. The bow man had elected to do a human pole and was coping quite well with it with one hand nonchalantly holding the sail out and grasping a beer at the same time in the light air. The rest of him was sprawled over the rail and deck. Quite comfortable he reported. Then the westerly breeze hit and away we went. A quick change of position had him still poling the sail out and resting his beer on the cabin top. 7.5 knots was reported on the GPS and for once we were pulling away from the boats behind us, even more so when we hit the corner and headed for the start line.
Back around Sampson and off to Dolphin West this time with the westerly dropping out and veering back into the north again. Ok, time to get conservative and count our seconds as Bill was starting to catch up as was the Space Sailor 22 known as Crossroads. So sail to get to the line as quickly as possible. Down to Print and then leave Como to starboard, a reach to Thelma and then a straight line to the finish. Damn, the two behind us were getting closer by the minute. Hit the line and then put the boat under wraps to settle down and discuss the race and other things.
Results had Crossroads first on handicap with Mariner 4 seconds behind and another plastic boat Chelsea third. Over the line Mariner, Swiftsure Saga and Crossroads. By the way our sail maker trimmer/bowman was none other that the helm of the Carkeek 47 Indian currently battling Tony and Astrid Mitchells TP52 Calm for over all first in the IRC state championships. Wish we had him for the rest of the season. Thanks for the day Paul.
Wednesday the 15th of July Lockie on board.
The skipper was out of action for the day and David Locke had very kindly stepped on board to take the helm for the afternoon. Six H28's fronted again for the race and with a bright slightly gusty nor-easter blowing around 10 to 15 knots (or more). A discussion with the starters prior to the day had us possibly on a course two, when both the helm and I were considering a course one if the breeze was consistent in the north east ( the opposite of a south westerly ).
No matter, the job was to get the boat around the track and give David a look at the boat so that he could get a feel of the helm. The start was a dash for the bottom end with everyone and his best mate crowding the pin end and David quite rightly forbore from getting over involved in the melee. After all it wasn't his boat. So a start was made and not too bad, but we were mid fleet and had to get the boat going in a drag race for Sampson. A course two was offered and it meant a run down to Hallmark and Armstrong and then up the river to Print. Frankly the die was cast on the run to Sampson and the fleet had few chances to pass on the down winds. However with Swiftsure Saga in the lead (and not losing it) it was a case of swapping positions in the next three boats once the plastics had been left behind. Meanwhile Jay on Karoleeya and Glen on Wynella had a nice battle going on at the middle of the fleet. The three boats mentioned were Andrew Bell, John Wright and ourselves on Mariner and we were all trying to improve our positions with some taking the left hand side and others taking the right hand. We went right and were looking good for a while then ran into a line of knocks that had us looking across the river to see Andrew and John over on the right moving very well. Maybe the breeze had shifted into the north at that period and the boats on that side had picked the right time to be there? No matter, we weren't that far behind and the next leg took us to the outer start line and then back to Sampson ready for a run down to Dolphin West. We had improved a little by then and had Andrew firmly in our sights with John within cooee as well. The choice then was to work our way back to Print and again we went right. Wrong! The left hand ( northern ) side paid off again and even though we made Como comfortably, Andrew Bell managed to squeak past it and had enough speed to stay in front.
But from then on it was chase Andrew and even with a last ditch effort to roll him on the line we got a fourth over the line 90 seconds after Swiftsure Saga. However the handicap first was taken by John Wright with a good second over the line, Bill Richards took second despite his first over the line and mercifully we took the third on handicap. A good day out and grand to see 4 h28's so close.
The skipper was out of action for the day and David Locke had very kindly stepped on board to take the helm for the afternoon. Six H28's fronted again for the race and with a bright slightly gusty nor-easter blowing around 10 to 15 knots (or more). A discussion with the starters prior to the day had us possibly on a course two, when both the helm and I were considering a course one if the breeze was consistent in the north east ( the opposite of a south westerly ).
No matter, the job was to get the boat around the track and give David a look at the boat so that he could get a feel of the helm. The start was a dash for the bottom end with everyone and his best mate crowding the pin end and David quite rightly forbore from getting over involved in the melee. After all it wasn't his boat. So a start was made and not too bad, but we were mid fleet and had to get the boat going in a drag race for Sampson. A course two was offered and it meant a run down to Hallmark and Armstrong and then up the river to Print. Frankly the die was cast on the run to Sampson and the fleet had few chances to pass on the down winds. However with Swiftsure Saga in the lead (and not losing it) it was a case of swapping positions in the next three boats once the plastics had been left behind. Meanwhile Jay on Karoleeya and Glen on Wynella had a nice battle going on at the middle of the fleet. The three boats mentioned were Andrew Bell, John Wright and ourselves on Mariner and we were all trying to improve our positions with some taking the left hand side and others taking the right hand. We went right and were looking good for a while then ran into a line of knocks that had us looking across the river to see Andrew and John over on the right moving very well. Maybe the breeze had shifted into the north at that period and the boats on that side had picked the right time to be there? No matter, we weren't that far behind and the next leg took us to the outer start line and then back to Sampson ready for a run down to Dolphin West. We had improved a little by then and had Andrew firmly in our sights with John within cooee as well. The choice then was to work our way back to Print and again we went right. Wrong! The left hand ( northern ) side paid off again and even though we made Como comfortably, Andrew Bell managed to squeak past it and had enough speed to stay in front.
But from then on it was chase Andrew and even with a last ditch effort to roll him on the line we got a fourth over the line 90 seconds after Swiftsure Saga. However the handicap first was taken by John Wright with a good second over the line, Bill Richards took second despite his first over the line and mercifully we took the third on handicap. A good day out and grand to see 4 h28's so close.
Wednesday the 8th of July A bit of an improver
Well we had a breeze to begin with. Straight out of the South Pole and flicking into the east occasionally. With a course three and about 10 to 14 knots it bode well for the six strong H28 fleet as they made their way onto the water in the company of 4 plastics.
As could be expected the dash up to Martin Weaver was the tester and we were in good form as we slid around the first mark in second place. However the test was to ride the gusts down wind and stay in front of the plastic fleet while coping with the stragglers from Division two as they made their way to Sampson. A work across to King gave us a good look at the fleet behind us and the competition was sorting themselves out into to three distinct blocks with Wynella and Swiftsure Saga in battle and Chelsea pushing the pair of them. Anna was not in good form on the day and they must have attributed that to the unlucky start that found it hard for them to get to the fore again. Soraya and Bella with Jay on board were in company and the rest of the plastic fleet were moving amongst them. We had our nemesis clinging to our transom like a limpet and it was going to be hard to shake him off.
As the breeze diminished we found ourselves still in front and on the last loop, the game was to stay ahead of him. Despite going deep into the beach beyond Addison we could not match the ability to point that Chrysalis had and found him gaining rapidly while we tried the shore line run to the line. It was clear that our lack of height was going to punish us so a series of tacks were thrown to cover the serial pest and despite a last tack designed to throw bad air on them, he slipped past and took the line on a breeze that was diminishing rapidly. Much gnashing of teeth ensued and rather than dwell on the what if's, the boat was packed in silence and a cork was withdrawn.
At the results however, Glen took a good second on handicap with Mariner taking a fourth on handicap. The plastic took first and third.
At present in the consistency Wynella leads by a slender margin of two points to Mariner with Swiftsure Saga 9 points behind. No drops have been factored in at this stage.
Well we had a breeze to begin with. Straight out of the South Pole and flicking into the east occasionally. With a course three and about 10 to 14 knots it bode well for the six strong H28 fleet as they made their way onto the water in the company of 4 plastics.
As could be expected the dash up to Martin Weaver was the tester and we were in good form as we slid around the first mark in second place. However the test was to ride the gusts down wind and stay in front of the plastic fleet while coping with the stragglers from Division two as they made their way to Sampson. A work across to King gave us a good look at the fleet behind us and the competition was sorting themselves out into to three distinct blocks with Wynella and Swiftsure Saga in battle and Chelsea pushing the pair of them. Anna was not in good form on the day and they must have attributed that to the unlucky start that found it hard for them to get to the fore again. Soraya and Bella with Jay on board were in company and the rest of the plastic fleet were moving amongst them. We had our nemesis clinging to our transom like a limpet and it was going to be hard to shake him off.
As the breeze diminished we found ourselves still in front and on the last loop, the game was to stay ahead of him. Despite going deep into the beach beyond Addison we could not match the ability to point that Chrysalis had and found him gaining rapidly while we tried the shore line run to the line. It was clear that our lack of height was going to punish us so a series of tacks were thrown to cover the serial pest and despite a last tack designed to throw bad air on them, he slipped past and took the line on a breeze that was diminishing rapidly. Much gnashing of teeth ensued and rather than dwell on the what if's, the boat was packed in silence and a cork was withdrawn.
At the results however, Glen took a good second on handicap with Mariner taking a fourth on handicap. The plastic took first and third.
At present in the consistency Wynella leads by a slender margin of two points to Mariner with Swiftsure Saga 9 points behind. No drops have been factored in at this stage.
Wednesday the 1st of July N over A
Driving down to the club I cross over the Mt Henry and the Canning Bridges. Both times the water on the river were glassed out and each time I thought well whatever happens it will be a slow day.
A meeting had been held on Monday with various discussion points brought to the meeting. As I wasn't there I can't comment on what happened, but I can report that a little glimmer of hope may be kindled in the hearts of the Royal Freshwater Bay H28 friends. Jay Lawry is reportedly in the process of selling Bella to one of the younger members who has been sailing with Rogan Anderson (Tehana) and has decided to get an H28 to give Rogan a bit of competition. What a great idea. For once I'm not bemoaning the loss of another boat to god knows where.
Jay brought Rogan and his friend down to the meeting as guests and I'm sure that they appreciated the lively discussion that was in process.
However, back to the day.
We saddled up the boats and we had a good number ready to go with Mariner, Anna, Soraya, Wynella, The First Jindarra and Swiftsure Saga ready to go. A surprise visitor was former owner of Napier of Carrick, Russell Fletcher and he was along with Andrew Bell for the day. Along with Andrew were his sister and her daughter (and a very fine bottle of Pinot Noir as well).
Setting off we hoisted the sails and the skipper was heard to remark as we sailed off toward Sampson that we were doing quite well and the shape of the sails was holding well. However when we turned around and began to make our way back, we became slower and slower. Along side Andrew as luck would have it and we were actually overtaking him. A howl of laughter rang out on the boat when Ron mentioned that we were giving him dirty air and the skipper acknowledged that Ron was beginning to understand the subtlety of sailing.
However we still had to switch on the motor to get up to the start line and when the starters threw up an AP and pulled the flags down we thought that all was over. But after 15 minutes and a cold beer, up went the flags again and the sequence recommenced. A down wind start with half of Div. one over the line and struggling to get back; the fiasco continued with Div. Two falling over the line with the tidal drift contributing to the folly. One minute into the Div. three start sequence, three blasts on the horn and an N over A was raised. It's all over....drop the sails and head for home.
So we packed up and readied the boat for invaders as Andrew was stooging around with his guests (yes the breeze finally came in). Once they were back and their boat stowed we opened the beers, set out the food and welcomed the visitors. As we did so, the rest of the boats came in and packed up. A sorry end and if the starters had had a little more courage, we may have had a start after all. But it wasn't all lost and the day turned into evening as we toasted our visitors on the boat.
Driving down to the club I cross over the Mt Henry and the Canning Bridges. Both times the water on the river were glassed out and each time I thought well whatever happens it will be a slow day.
A meeting had been held on Monday with various discussion points brought to the meeting. As I wasn't there I can't comment on what happened, but I can report that a little glimmer of hope may be kindled in the hearts of the Royal Freshwater Bay H28 friends. Jay Lawry is reportedly in the process of selling Bella to one of the younger members who has been sailing with Rogan Anderson (Tehana) and has decided to get an H28 to give Rogan a bit of competition. What a great idea. For once I'm not bemoaning the loss of another boat to god knows where.
Jay brought Rogan and his friend down to the meeting as guests and I'm sure that they appreciated the lively discussion that was in process.
However, back to the day.
We saddled up the boats and we had a good number ready to go with Mariner, Anna, Soraya, Wynella, The First Jindarra and Swiftsure Saga ready to go. A surprise visitor was former owner of Napier of Carrick, Russell Fletcher and he was along with Andrew Bell for the day. Along with Andrew were his sister and her daughter (and a very fine bottle of Pinot Noir as well).
Setting off we hoisted the sails and the skipper was heard to remark as we sailed off toward Sampson that we were doing quite well and the shape of the sails was holding well. However when we turned around and began to make our way back, we became slower and slower. Along side Andrew as luck would have it and we were actually overtaking him. A howl of laughter rang out on the boat when Ron mentioned that we were giving him dirty air and the skipper acknowledged that Ron was beginning to understand the subtlety of sailing.
However we still had to switch on the motor to get up to the start line and when the starters threw up an AP and pulled the flags down we thought that all was over. But after 15 minutes and a cold beer, up went the flags again and the sequence recommenced. A down wind start with half of Div. one over the line and struggling to get back; the fiasco continued with Div. Two falling over the line with the tidal drift contributing to the folly. One minute into the Div. three start sequence, three blasts on the horn and an N over A was raised. It's all over....drop the sails and head for home.
So we packed up and readied the boat for invaders as Andrew was stooging around with his guests (yes the breeze finally came in). Once they were back and their boat stowed we opened the beers, set out the food and welcomed the visitors. As we did so, the rest of the boats came in and packed up. A sorry end and if the starters had had a little more courage, we may have had a start after all. But it wasn't all lost and the day turned into evening as we toasted our visitors on the boat.
Wednesday the 24th of June Some days are golden, others require a little thought.
Putting the largest sail onto the front end is sometimes a hard call
Can't point, can't stay up in really light breezes and can't handle anything more than 10 knots. Still it was worth a shot and with the certainty of a number four going up (light breezes) and the wind jockeying around the north - north west it seemed like a good idea.
While setting up the sails for the afternoon I idly looked up the river and lo and behold, there is a boat, way down the river, on what looked to be a south westerly. Discussion with the skipper went like this... " See that down there". "Yeh". "Whaddya reckon?" "Give it a chance, it'll be up here in a minute or two". "Ok, which end do we start at".
Suffice to say everyone else had the same idea and we were swamped underneath another half dozen boats all pushing for room at the pin end. The really smart ones went half way up the line with a running start and blanketed the fleet as they were closer to the breeze than anyone else and had the clean air to play with. John Wright and Bill RIchards were chasing Tony Edman in a plastic boat and it was like that all day. They cleared out as did two of the SS22's and it was only with a bit of luck that we were able to catch up with the front of the fleet as we worked our way up to Robins on the first leg. Tacking off to get away from bad air after Sampson we went right across to the channel below Heathcote and then found ourselves well short of the fleet. However a bit of luck and getting into phase ( for once ) we managed to get two lifts up to Robins that got us back into the chase again and put 2 H28's behind us and the other plastics. A short tack to Robins took us around the corner and away down to Dolphin East and from then to Como. No gains there .... it was a soldiers course and TE was disappearing into the distance. As was Bill and the two SS22's. We were keeping our hopes up with a chance to get at John Wright, but it wasn't to be. Even the small triangle offered no chances and a lack of pressure bands made it hard for us to improve any further than 6th over the line and on handicap. However Bill on Swiftsure managed a very creditable 2nd over the line and third on handicap with the rest of the H28 community strung out behind him. John Wright (Anna) 4th and 4th, Glen with Wynella 8th on the line and 9th on handicap and Kate on Soraya 9th and 10th.
A handicap improver as the skipper said and it was noticeable that he was a lot calmer at the end of the day. Perhaps the thought of a cold beer and a red had gotten to him and he was of a mood that it should be shown some justice. So I left him in peace with his bro in law discussing the end of a fine bottle of red.......
Putting the largest sail onto the front end is sometimes a hard call
Can't point, can't stay up in really light breezes and can't handle anything more than 10 knots. Still it was worth a shot and with the certainty of a number four going up (light breezes) and the wind jockeying around the north - north west it seemed like a good idea.
While setting up the sails for the afternoon I idly looked up the river and lo and behold, there is a boat, way down the river, on what looked to be a south westerly. Discussion with the skipper went like this... " See that down there". "Yeh". "Whaddya reckon?" "Give it a chance, it'll be up here in a minute or two". "Ok, which end do we start at".
Suffice to say everyone else had the same idea and we were swamped underneath another half dozen boats all pushing for room at the pin end. The really smart ones went half way up the line with a running start and blanketed the fleet as they were closer to the breeze than anyone else and had the clean air to play with. John Wright and Bill RIchards were chasing Tony Edman in a plastic boat and it was like that all day. They cleared out as did two of the SS22's and it was only with a bit of luck that we were able to catch up with the front of the fleet as we worked our way up to Robins on the first leg. Tacking off to get away from bad air after Sampson we went right across to the channel below Heathcote and then found ourselves well short of the fleet. However a bit of luck and getting into phase ( for once ) we managed to get two lifts up to Robins that got us back into the chase again and put 2 H28's behind us and the other plastics. A short tack to Robins took us around the corner and away down to Dolphin East and from then to Como. No gains there .... it was a soldiers course and TE was disappearing into the distance. As was Bill and the two SS22's. We were keeping our hopes up with a chance to get at John Wright, but it wasn't to be. Even the small triangle offered no chances and a lack of pressure bands made it hard for us to improve any further than 6th over the line and on handicap. However Bill on Swiftsure managed a very creditable 2nd over the line and third on handicap with the rest of the H28 community strung out behind him. John Wright (Anna) 4th and 4th, Glen with Wynella 8th on the line and 9th on handicap and Kate on Soraya 9th and 10th.
A handicap improver as the skipper said and it was noticeable that he was a lot calmer at the end of the day. Perhaps the thought of a cold beer and a red had gotten to him and he was of a mood that it should be shown some justice. So I left him in peace with his bro in law discussing the end of a fine bottle of red.......
Wednesday the 17th of June Just another day.
The office was open for business around 12.30 and the nor easter (again) was whipping around the stays as we started to saddle up the boats.
The forecast was for the wind to drop and swing a little, but with the ease born of constant disappointments with the forecasting department we strapped on the number one and swung the boat out onto the water.
With last weeks course three fresh in our minds, we thought either that or a course two was on offer and with only 5 boats ( and 4 of them H28's ) it looked and felt like an H28 day. Up went the course two and we watched the two other divisions crowd the line at the pin end and then battle their way up to Sampson. And away we went, with the fleet as a close band and Andrew Bell slightly in front due to his starting skill.
A pleasant reach that tightened occasionally as the wind oscillated and the pack only slightly separated by Sampson.
Off to Hallmark then Armstrong and it was chase and counter chase Andrew all the way up... you couldn't let him get too far ahead, but you couldn't let Bill Richards on Swiftsure Saga get too close to us. Down wind runs are all about the pressure bands that come down the river and staying in them pays off. Glen on Wynella wasn't too far away either and he was certainly trying to ward off the only plastic boat in the fleet.
The breeze was down to about 12 to 14 knots by now and the occasional gust was felt. The work up the river to Print and then to the outer start line was fine with even the run back to Sampson and up to Dolphin West was good. And then we fell out of phase with the breeze and nothing the skip could do would get us back into sync with breeze. That cheeky work of last week that saved us two tacks and saw us just scrape around Print didn't happen this week and we stumbled from mark to mark like a drunken sailor. By this time Andrew was well away and Bill was panting down our necks. Fortunately for us, Glen had had a horror moment and had gone out the back big time due to a decision that saw him on the wrong side of the breeze as well. However he recovered well and managed to take first on the day on handicap with Andrew taking fastest over the line and second on handicap. Bill was third and third and for our pains we were second over the line and fourth on handicap. What happened to the plastic boat you ask? Well he forgot to go around Print and retired after the finish.
No camera on board today.
The office was open for business around 12.30 and the nor easter (again) was whipping around the stays as we started to saddle up the boats.
The forecast was for the wind to drop and swing a little, but with the ease born of constant disappointments with the forecasting department we strapped on the number one and swung the boat out onto the water.
With last weeks course three fresh in our minds, we thought either that or a course two was on offer and with only 5 boats ( and 4 of them H28's ) it looked and felt like an H28 day. Up went the course two and we watched the two other divisions crowd the line at the pin end and then battle their way up to Sampson. And away we went, with the fleet as a close band and Andrew Bell slightly in front due to his starting skill.
A pleasant reach that tightened occasionally as the wind oscillated and the pack only slightly separated by Sampson.
Off to Hallmark then Armstrong and it was chase and counter chase Andrew all the way up... you couldn't let him get too far ahead, but you couldn't let Bill Richards on Swiftsure Saga get too close to us. Down wind runs are all about the pressure bands that come down the river and staying in them pays off. Glen on Wynella wasn't too far away either and he was certainly trying to ward off the only plastic boat in the fleet.
The breeze was down to about 12 to 14 knots by now and the occasional gust was felt. The work up the river to Print and then to the outer start line was fine with even the run back to Sampson and up to Dolphin West was good. And then we fell out of phase with the breeze and nothing the skip could do would get us back into sync with breeze. That cheeky work of last week that saved us two tacks and saw us just scrape around Print didn't happen this week and we stumbled from mark to mark like a drunken sailor. By this time Andrew was well away and Bill was panting down our necks. Fortunately for us, Glen had had a horror moment and had gone out the back big time due to a decision that saw him on the wrong side of the breeze as well. However he recovered well and managed to take first on the day on handicap with Andrew taking fastest over the line and second on handicap. Bill was third and third and for our pains we were second over the line and fourth on handicap. What happened to the plastic boat you ask? Well he forgot to go around Print and retired after the finish.
No camera on board today.
Wednesday the 10th of June Skating away on the pressure bands of a nor easter
It was always going to be a short race given that the forecast indicated that the breeze would moderate during the afternoon and get lighter as they day progressed. Therefore a good start was required and with the course three flag up, the dash to Sampson was bright and cheerful as we battled with The First Jindarra to get to the corner first. He had the inside so we set off to King side by side with poles out and a rapidly diminishing breeze.
From now on it was chase the pressure. Luck on the way down to Robins had us slip past the Jin but at the same time we were looking at a close field with Tony Edman in Chrysalis relishing the soft airs and closing on us.
After Robins a decision to cover Andrew Bell had us tack off and possibly lose the good air we had, but TE stayed in that left hand band and did very well from it. By the time we got to Print the fleet who had stayed out on the right had closed up and once again it was tight at the corner and a dash to Foam gave us a chance to get away as the fleet were stymieing each other on the way through. Two leaders emerged from the pack Swiftsure Saga and The 1st Jindarra and they were starting to pull us back ever so slightly. The rest of the pack were chivying each other and only those who swung out to get clear air managed to get away. By the second run up to Robins it was clear that chasing the breeze was the way to go and clear air and keen eye sight would get you down to Robins and away.
The second beat to Print was the maker, as again the fleet split and went right and left with some going all the way left and others following their original path of the first time down the right. We stayed put and instead of tacking off to cover, maintained the line to Print, then altering course to get to Como, just making it and squeaking past a SS27 in the process. From then on, it was chase TE (who was well in the lead by now) and hope that his lead wasn't too big. It was, unfortunately and he took the win and the port with 7 and a half minutes between us and a further 3 minutes + to a SS22 piloted by Bernie. The rest of the fleet suffered in the light breeze and sometimes a choice of breeze selection meant that you went further out the back than you wished to be. Still the skipper was happy with the day and it was not just the sails, but the ability to pick the right breeze and stick to it. This time we were heroes, next week we may very well be feather dusters.
BTW. Its pleasing to report that Alex Mutch fronted up to sail with John Wright, great to see him and that Roghan Anderson (Tehana) is looking for an addition to his sail wardrobe, if any one can help, contact Dave Locke. Also in the Frostbites 3 boats went out last Sunday....Swiftsure Saga, Karoleeya and Georgina. Great to see Tony out on the water.
It was always going to be a short race given that the forecast indicated that the breeze would moderate during the afternoon and get lighter as they day progressed. Therefore a good start was required and with the course three flag up, the dash to Sampson was bright and cheerful as we battled with The First Jindarra to get to the corner first. He had the inside so we set off to King side by side with poles out and a rapidly diminishing breeze.
From now on it was chase the pressure. Luck on the way down to Robins had us slip past the Jin but at the same time we were looking at a close field with Tony Edman in Chrysalis relishing the soft airs and closing on us.
After Robins a decision to cover Andrew Bell had us tack off and possibly lose the good air we had, but TE stayed in that left hand band and did very well from it. By the time we got to Print the fleet who had stayed out on the right had closed up and once again it was tight at the corner and a dash to Foam gave us a chance to get away as the fleet were stymieing each other on the way through. Two leaders emerged from the pack Swiftsure Saga and The 1st Jindarra and they were starting to pull us back ever so slightly. The rest of the pack were chivying each other and only those who swung out to get clear air managed to get away. By the second run up to Robins it was clear that chasing the breeze was the way to go and clear air and keen eye sight would get you down to Robins and away.
The second beat to Print was the maker, as again the fleet split and went right and left with some going all the way left and others following their original path of the first time down the right. We stayed put and instead of tacking off to cover, maintained the line to Print, then altering course to get to Como, just making it and squeaking past a SS27 in the process. From then on, it was chase TE (who was well in the lead by now) and hope that his lead wasn't too big. It was, unfortunately and he took the win and the port with 7 and a half minutes between us and a further 3 minutes + to a SS22 piloted by Bernie. The rest of the fleet suffered in the light breeze and sometimes a choice of breeze selection meant that you went further out the back than you wished to be. Still the skipper was happy with the day and it was not just the sails, but the ability to pick the right breeze and stick to it. This time we were heroes, next week we may very well be feather dusters.
BTW. Its pleasing to report that Alex Mutch fronted up to sail with John Wright, great to see him and that Roghan Anderson (Tehana) is looking for an addition to his sail wardrobe, if any one can help, contact Dave Locke. Also in the Frostbites 3 boats went out last Sunday....Swiftsure Saga, Karoleeya and Georgina. Great to see Tony out on the water.
Wednesday the 3rd of June A race in two parts
Given the day was meant to be littered with showers, there was discussion as to whether full wet weather kit was required. Our starboard trimmer was clear that it was going to be sunny, so laughingly we put our jackets downstairs.
Getting out into the Canning river it was evident that we were going to get wet shortly, so as soon as the sails were up, our jackets went on. A course two was on offer in the north westerly breeze and div one got away with one boat ducking back to avoid an OCS. Already we had about 15 knots on the board and we watched div two get away with a squall battering them on the start line.
Then it was our turn and we spent the next 5 minutes getting hammered as the squall built up in pressure and though it was recorded as 25 knots over at Inner Dolphin, it may have been a little more in our open position at the Canning River mouth. With three H28's and one plastic boat, the start line was relatively free of problems and with 30 seconds to go we found ourselves pointing into the breeze, ready to drop down over the line 10 yards away.
A good start and we had 7.5 knots on a tight reach across to Sampson (got there quick too). There wasn't much between Swiftsure Saga, Wynella and ourselves, but with the luck of a good start we were ahead and were determined to stay there. Around the mark and close out Bill out and he tacked off rather than eat our disturbed air, as did Wynella and the plastic boat.
The breeze was dropping as we worked our way up to Hallmark and by the time we had made it to Armstrong it was clear that the rest of the race was in light airs, the sun was out and keeping the others off our transom was going to be the task. Fortunately Wynella and the plastic boat had separated from Swiftsure Saga and ourselves so it was keep Bill behind us for the day. Not that he didn't try of course.........
By the end of the day the separation from the other two had grown to about 6 minutes or so and despite all the hard work we had done, our handicap was too big we took a fastest and second on handicap with Bill Richards taking first on handicap. The plastic boat came in third on handicap with Wynella suffering from a smaller headsail and coming in fourth.
As you can imagine, there weren't too many boats to photograph and the best shots inevitably were when the start occurred. You guessed it I had my hands full.
Given the day was meant to be littered with showers, there was discussion as to whether full wet weather kit was required. Our starboard trimmer was clear that it was going to be sunny, so laughingly we put our jackets downstairs.
Getting out into the Canning river it was evident that we were going to get wet shortly, so as soon as the sails were up, our jackets went on. A course two was on offer in the north westerly breeze and div one got away with one boat ducking back to avoid an OCS. Already we had about 15 knots on the board and we watched div two get away with a squall battering them on the start line.
Then it was our turn and we spent the next 5 minutes getting hammered as the squall built up in pressure and though it was recorded as 25 knots over at Inner Dolphin, it may have been a little more in our open position at the Canning River mouth. With three H28's and one plastic boat, the start line was relatively free of problems and with 30 seconds to go we found ourselves pointing into the breeze, ready to drop down over the line 10 yards away.
A good start and we had 7.5 knots on a tight reach across to Sampson (got there quick too). There wasn't much between Swiftsure Saga, Wynella and ourselves, but with the luck of a good start we were ahead and were determined to stay there. Around the mark and close out Bill out and he tacked off rather than eat our disturbed air, as did Wynella and the plastic boat.
The breeze was dropping as we worked our way up to Hallmark and by the time we had made it to Armstrong it was clear that the rest of the race was in light airs, the sun was out and keeping the others off our transom was going to be the task. Fortunately Wynella and the plastic boat had separated from Swiftsure Saga and ourselves so it was keep Bill behind us for the day. Not that he didn't try of course.........
By the end of the day the separation from the other two had grown to about 6 minutes or so and despite all the hard work we had done, our handicap was too big we took a fastest and second on handicap with Bill Richards taking first on handicap. The plastic boat came in third on handicap with Wynella suffering from a smaller headsail and coming in fourth.
As you can imagine, there weren't too many boats to photograph and the best shots inevitably were when the start occurred. You guessed it I had my hands full.
Wednesday the 27th of May The dreaded Raffles knock
Known for it's size against all other buildings in Applecross and along the Canning river, the Raffles Hotel was refurbished a few years ago and a tower of apartments was built on the river. It casts a giant wind shadow when the wind is in the south and we had that today. Freezing cold and swirling furiously, the ride up to Martin / Weaver was a maelstrom of knocks as trying to get into phase had boats rushing to both sides of the river and failing to get anywhere. Occasionly the wind would switch to a south easterly and drive us up toward Martin and perversely switch again and we'd end up in strife. The start line was a starboard dash from the start box end and looking briefly away from the main, I saw a wall of boats down the line. I could swear we were on the right side of the line, but there were others that weren't in my opinion. However the starters let us go and the battle commenced.
By the time we had reached Martin we were second last and cursing as it meant dragging back every boat that got through us. So onto Weaver and then start pulling back all the boats. By the time we had reached Sampson, there were only 3 boats ahead of us and predictably Andrew Bell on the First Jindarra and Chrysalis were there. However Bill RIchards on Swiftsure Saga has come out of hiding and he and Andrew were having a battle out front, at one stage playing silly buggers with Chrysalis, forming a wall behind Tony E and slowing him down, then coming up above him to get past. But Bill had the last laugh, getting past Andrew and claiming the lead on a soldiers course.
Over the course 4 (light winds) we had very little chance of getting past people, but full marks to Glen Stanley who has shown again that he and Wynella can go fast in light breezes. Mind you having Vic Court on board counts a lot when it comes to downright cunning and knowledge of the river and it's clear that Vic is pushing Glen to concentrate all the way around the track. And it works! He was pushing us a couple of times late in the race and he will have the handicap improvement to show for it.
Predictably Bill picked up the win and fastest boat with Glen picking up a 5th over the line and third on handicap. Andrew Bell was second on time, but took a fourth on handicap. We retired to Herreshoff Hill to lick our wounds and after 20 minutes realized that it was too bloody cold and that in future we would camp on the boats after sailing and enjoy a red wine out of the breeze.
Oh Andrew nearly forgot to put his flag away ( twice ) and here's the proof. See the slide show..
Known for it's size against all other buildings in Applecross and along the Canning river, the Raffles Hotel was refurbished a few years ago and a tower of apartments was built on the river. It casts a giant wind shadow when the wind is in the south and we had that today. Freezing cold and swirling furiously, the ride up to Martin / Weaver was a maelstrom of knocks as trying to get into phase had boats rushing to both sides of the river and failing to get anywhere. Occasionly the wind would switch to a south easterly and drive us up toward Martin and perversely switch again and we'd end up in strife. The start line was a starboard dash from the start box end and looking briefly away from the main, I saw a wall of boats down the line. I could swear we were on the right side of the line, but there were others that weren't in my opinion. However the starters let us go and the battle commenced.
By the time we had reached Martin we were second last and cursing as it meant dragging back every boat that got through us. So onto Weaver and then start pulling back all the boats. By the time we had reached Sampson, there were only 3 boats ahead of us and predictably Andrew Bell on the First Jindarra and Chrysalis were there. However Bill RIchards on Swiftsure Saga has come out of hiding and he and Andrew were having a battle out front, at one stage playing silly buggers with Chrysalis, forming a wall behind Tony E and slowing him down, then coming up above him to get past. But Bill had the last laugh, getting past Andrew and claiming the lead on a soldiers course.
Over the course 4 (light winds) we had very little chance of getting past people, but full marks to Glen Stanley who has shown again that he and Wynella can go fast in light breezes. Mind you having Vic Court on board counts a lot when it comes to downright cunning and knowledge of the river and it's clear that Vic is pushing Glen to concentrate all the way around the track. And it works! He was pushing us a couple of times late in the race and he will have the handicap improvement to show for it.
Predictably Bill picked up the win and fastest boat with Glen picking up a 5th over the line and third on handicap. Andrew Bell was second on time, but took a fourth on handicap. We retired to Herreshoff Hill to lick our wounds and after 20 minutes realized that it was too bloody cold and that in future we would camp on the boats after sailing and enjoy a red wine out of the breeze.
Oh Andrew nearly forgot to put his flag away ( twice ) and here's the proof. See the slide show..
Wednesday the 20th of May Ring the bell Andrew.
Once again, Andrew proved that the start is all. He got away from the pack and on a Martin Weaver dash, he was the first to Martin. My word was the river flowing down in a hurry. The Weaver mark was almost leaning sideways against the outflow caused by the recent rain. Most of us got around the two marks, but one or two of the tail enders had to go again. The breeze was out of the East flicking into the south east occasionally and of sufficient strength to make the six H28's positively hum as they roared away from the other boats. With the gusts hitting 24 knots and a base line of about 15 knots it was flat water sailing at it's best and the down wind run to Hallmark on a course two was a matter of listening to the fordeckie as he or she called the gusts coming toward the fleets down the river.
Crossing the Royal Perth fleet was interesting for some as we were on port and windward. Luckily enough Mariner and the First Jindarra managed to slip in between the oncoming boats, but Glen was carried off by a forty foot cruiser and lost several boat lengths, but funnily enough managed to get some of it back. Again the up wind beats were best served by going over to the eastern side of the river and using the lifts to get down to Print and then across to the outer start line.
Glen Stanley and Wynella were again very competitive for the first part of the race and is only time before he gets his act together for the whole race. Bill Richards was doing a fine job of lurking (I'm sure he just wants to improve his handicap) but his natural competitiveness brought him to the fore and he took third over the line in the end. John Wright was missing Peter for some reason and he borrowed Neil from Glen and Neil did a fine job up front. Not bad for a bloke who joined the fleet last year. Only 9 seconds behind Bill, so it was a case of never stop checking where John is. Kate and the girls were out and picked up a very nice third on handicap though their finish was fifth over the line.
A nice little note to finish the day, On Mariner we picked up an old crew member, Lorraine who had decided to sail with us for the day and did a fine job in a boat which was familiar to her. Might see more of her, wait and see.
I was rather busy with the main today...not too many pictures.
Once again, Andrew proved that the start is all. He got away from the pack and on a Martin Weaver dash, he was the first to Martin. My word was the river flowing down in a hurry. The Weaver mark was almost leaning sideways against the outflow caused by the recent rain. Most of us got around the two marks, but one or two of the tail enders had to go again. The breeze was out of the East flicking into the south east occasionally and of sufficient strength to make the six H28's positively hum as they roared away from the other boats. With the gusts hitting 24 knots and a base line of about 15 knots it was flat water sailing at it's best and the down wind run to Hallmark on a course two was a matter of listening to the fordeckie as he or she called the gusts coming toward the fleets down the river.
Crossing the Royal Perth fleet was interesting for some as we were on port and windward. Luckily enough Mariner and the First Jindarra managed to slip in between the oncoming boats, but Glen was carried off by a forty foot cruiser and lost several boat lengths, but funnily enough managed to get some of it back. Again the up wind beats were best served by going over to the eastern side of the river and using the lifts to get down to Print and then across to the outer start line.
Glen Stanley and Wynella were again very competitive for the first part of the race and is only time before he gets his act together for the whole race. Bill Richards was doing a fine job of lurking (I'm sure he just wants to improve his handicap) but his natural competitiveness brought him to the fore and he took third over the line in the end. John Wright was missing Peter for some reason and he borrowed Neil from Glen and Neil did a fine job up front. Not bad for a bloke who joined the fleet last year. Only 9 seconds behind Bill, so it was a case of never stop checking where John is. Kate and the girls were out and picked up a very nice third on handicap though their finish was fifth over the line.
A nice little note to finish the day, On Mariner we picked up an old crew member, Lorraine who had decided to sail with us for the day and did a fine job in a boat which was familiar to her. Might see more of her, wait and see.
I was rather busy with the main today...not too many pictures.
Wednesday the 13th of May The one that got away.
Starts make the race.....and don't we know it. With a course two up and a diminishing north easterly we jockeyed for the start line with four H28's lined up and sails rattling in the breeze as we hung below the line. Shouts of Up and Up again were heard further down toward the pin as Swiftsure Saga and the plastic terrorists battled it out. We had our own problems and a loose leach dropped us out the back as the boats clawed their way over the start line. So a start from the back of the fleet was on offer. There is only one way to make the skipper happy now, work like the devil.
By Sampson we were catching up and the run down to Hallmark was a chance for us to get through the back markers and we confidently passed the green hornet (Crossroads) and Chelsea and started looming at Glen on Wynella. Bill Richards tried to go around the wrong side of Inner Dolphin, but realized his mistake and corrected his course losing a few boat lengths in the process. By this time Andrew Bell had cleared out with Chrysalis pestering him at any given opportunity. It was now our job to get to Armstrong and then go on the beat back to Como and the outer start line. Oh and get past some pretty formidable opponents in Anna and Swiftsure Saga.
By the outer start line, blind luck and good judgment on the skippers part got us in front while we coped with an almighty overwind and a jammed sheet (don't ask me how a rope could double knot itself). From then on, it was defend our position and keep looking forward at the dots in the distance that showed us the leaders. Again Glen came surging through at the end of the next loop around the buoys passing Anna and Swiftsure Saga and managed to get a very creditable finish over the line, scoring a fourth and fourth. Andy Bell as expected took first and fastest with Chrysalis second and second. While we took a third over the line, our handicap finish came in at 5th.
Review our mistakes and pray for more wind.
Starts make the race.....and don't we know it. With a course two up and a diminishing north easterly we jockeyed for the start line with four H28's lined up and sails rattling in the breeze as we hung below the line. Shouts of Up and Up again were heard further down toward the pin as Swiftsure Saga and the plastic terrorists battled it out. We had our own problems and a loose leach dropped us out the back as the boats clawed their way over the start line. So a start from the back of the fleet was on offer. There is only one way to make the skipper happy now, work like the devil.
By Sampson we were catching up and the run down to Hallmark was a chance for us to get through the back markers and we confidently passed the green hornet (Crossroads) and Chelsea and started looming at Glen on Wynella. Bill Richards tried to go around the wrong side of Inner Dolphin, but realized his mistake and corrected his course losing a few boat lengths in the process. By this time Andrew Bell had cleared out with Chrysalis pestering him at any given opportunity. It was now our job to get to Armstrong and then go on the beat back to Como and the outer start line. Oh and get past some pretty formidable opponents in Anna and Swiftsure Saga.
By the outer start line, blind luck and good judgment on the skippers part got us in front while we coped with an almighty overwind and a jammed sheet (don't ask me how a rope could double knot itself). From then on, it was defend our position and keep looking forward at the dots in the distance that showed us the leaders. Again Glen came surging through at the end of the next loop around the buoys passing Anna and Swiftsure Saga and managed to get a very creditable finish over the line, scoring a fourth and fourth. Andy Bell as expected took first and fastest with Chrysalis second and second. While we took a third over the line, our handicap finish came in at 5th.
Review our mistakes and pray for more wind.
Wednesday the 6th of May Wynella makes good with a handicap win !
Without a doubt, Glen has started to push his limits.
On another soft day with better than expected breeze out of the west sou west (bloody cold in the shade) 7 H28's took off with the usual flotilla of plastic boats surrounding them. As usual the start was the one with every one trying to make up their minds as to whether the box end ( nearer the breeze or the pin end ( shortest distance ) was the way to go. With most of the boats two up, it was going to be a shorthanded race for us and setting poles and what ever was going to be a bother.
To be expected, the dash to Sampson on a course one had Jindarra and Mariner neck to neck with Jindarra just inside Mariners transom and claiming rights on the corner. Fair enough, but Glen decided he'd duck in there too, causing a slightly ruffled skipper on Mariner to have to swerve away to avoid another collision with Wynella. Not really kosher!
Staying out on the right lead us up to the Royal Perth fleet and the foul air from them, in the past we have tossed earlier and stayed away from them, but this time we found ourselves in their muck and finally tacked to get through them and into fresh air on the other side. Every one else was over near Waylen Bay but we held out for a starboard ley ( not really ) but found some good lifts coming across in the predominately westerly flow and rejoined the fleet a little better off. The main issue was that the plastics had gotten away in the light air and were starting to lead in their own right so it was up to us to close the gap and harass them back. Only Andrew was able to get through and even then he had Tony Edman in Chrysalis in front of him and Tony will defend his transom until the cows come home. However on the down wind the fleet leaders were able to close up a little.
Yes where were we... John Wright (Anna) and Lockie (Corella) were still close by with Bill (Swiftsure Saga) and Wynella being chased by Kate and the ladies on Soraya. The last loop of the day was the short one with the battle between Mariner and a plastic boat who was being stubborn (and well he might) as the main feature for us. It was more about being second h28 over the line, rather than anything else. Still it was a good test for the new sails and learning to trim them according to the sail makers ideas. We got to the line with the usual run along the freeway and lifted up to the start line to flop over the line in fourth position (not fifth as reported by the starters).
However Glen took the cake on handicap and managed to stave off Tony Edman by 2 seconds. Andy Bell was second over the line some 38 seconds later with the plastic pest third and ourselves fourth.
A note. Roghan Anderson ( Tehana ) has found in the latest Wooden Boat magazine a new H28 ( sloop rig ) that was built in Norway and launched in 2014. It was built over 8 years and combined laminates and steamed ribs and planks. He passed on some PDF's which I have converted to jpegs and put up on line. A fascinating story of a home build. It is an interesting point that he followed the traditional boat builders technique of building from the keel up. See below. I have also included the PDF's for those who wish to down load the article.
Without a doubt, Glen has started to push his limits.
On another soft day with better than expected breeze out of the west sou west (bloody cold in the shade) 7 H28's took off with the usual flotilla of plastic boats surrounding them. As usual the start was the one with every one trying to make up their minds as to whether the box end ( nearer the breeze or the pin end ( shortest distance ) was the way to go. With most of the boats two up, it was going to be a shorthanded race for us and setting poles and what ever was going to be a bother.
To be expected, the dash to Sampson on a course one had Jindarra and Mariner neck to neck with Jindarra just inside Mariners transom and claiming rights on the corner. Fair enough, but Glen decided he'd duck in there too, causing a slightly ruffled skipper on Mariner to have to swerve away to avoid another collision with Wynella. Not really kosher!
Staying out on the right lead us up to the Royal Perth fleet and the foul air from them, in the past we have tossed earlier and stayed away from them, but this time we found ourselves in their muck and finally tacked to get through them and into fresh air on the other side. Every one else was over near Waylen Bay but we held out for a starboard ley ( not really ) but found some good lifts coming across in the predominately westerly flow and rejoined the fleet a little better off. The main issue was that the plastics had gotten away in the light air and were starting to lead in their own right so it was up to us to close the gap and harass them back. Only Andrew was able to get through and even then he had Tony Edman in Chrysalis in front of him and Tony will defend his transom until the cows come home. However on the down wind the fleet leaders were able to close up a little.
Yes where were we... John Wright (Anna) and Lockie (Corella) were still close by with Bill (Swiftsure Saga) and Wynella being chased by Kate and the ladies on Soraya. The last loop of the day was the short one with the battle between Mariner and a plastic boat who was being stubborn (and well he might) as the main feature for us. It was more about being second h28 over the line, rather than anything else. Still it was a good test for the new sails and learning to trim them according to the sail makers ideas. We got to the line with the usual run along the freeway and lifted up to the start line to flop over the line in fourth position (not fifth as reported by the starters).
However Glen took the cake on handicap and managed to stave off Tony Edman by 2 seconds. Andy Bell was second over the line some 38 seconds later with the plastic pest third and ourselves fourth.
A note. Roghan Anderson ( Tehana ) has found in the latest Wooden Boat magazine a new H28 ( sloop rig ) that was built in Norway and launched in 2014. It was built over 8 years and combined laminates and steamed ribs and planks. He passed on some PDF's which I have converted to jpegs and put up on line. A fascinating story of a home build. It is an interesting point that he followed the traditional boat builders technique of building from the keel up. See below. I have also included the PDF's for those who wish to down load the article.
| page_1_(1).pdf |
| page_2.pdf |
| page_3.pdf |
| page_4.pdf |
Wednesday the 29th of April A hard day on the water.
Yet again, the day started with wisps of a breeze wandering it's way out of the north and although there were threats of a glass out, somehow we managed to keep going. With the start flags drooping it was anyone's guess as to the actual flag they put up, but commonsense dictated a course four with a truncated track (once around). Showers were forecast and indeed we copped a sprinkle occasionally as we went around the course.
The impact on the plastic boats was that once again it was to be their day and the hard work was going to be chasing them and keeping within touch of the leading boats. Surprisingly, the H28's (five of us) were managing well in the light stuff to begin and Glen Stanley in Wynella had Vic along for the ride and boy didn't he keep Glen on his toes. Very much in touch and riding the good breezes all the way. Others were not so fortunate and being on the wrong side of the river when the breeze picked up was deadly. Any waft of a breeze and away you went from the pack. For some reason John Wright didn't have that wind shift in his pocket and he and Bill Richards lurked at the back of the pack for most of the day leaving Andrew Bell on the 1st Jindarra and Glen chasing the lead boats. In that event, up front it was diabolical as neither of the two leading plastic boats was prepared to let the other through and they had their own battles as well.
It was a matter of picking the breezes and concentrating as the day went on and when the breeze finally (we thought) packed up, Ron was dispatched to the esky for cold beers for the skipper and crew and almost as soon as the caps were ripped off and the first swallow had, than the breeze started to pick up and away we went again. For once we had a chance to open up a bit of a lead on the way down to Dolphin East and then it was a matter of angles and taking chances on the solidity of the breeze and that it wouldn't drop out as we went over to Heathcote ready to ride the nor wester down to Como and then home. Some boats went down the center and Andrew went hard left, staying out in the north hoping that the pressure would drop out on the other side of the river and he could ride down on the vestiges of the northerly.
By Como, and back into a nor easterly, the leading boats were plastic with one H28 within cooee, but the surprise was that Wynella had snuck in front of the 1st Jindarra and was not going to be overhauled. In fact another plastic had snuck in between the two and on a straight run to the finish there was very little hope of success.
The end of the day saw Glen take 2nd on handicap, with Mariner taking 5th on handicap and the rest of the H28's occupying the last three slots. Over the line Mariner was third behind Crossroads and Chrysalis and Glen took 4th over the line. Well sailed all, and it was indeed a hard day on the water requiring concentration by all.
Yet again, the day started with wisps of a breeze wandering it's way out of the north and although there were threats of a glass out, somehow we managed to keep going. With the start flags drooping it was anyone's guess as to the actual flag they put up, but commonsense dictated a course four with a truncated track (once around). Showers were forecast and indeed we copped a sprinkle occasionally as we went around the course.
The impact on the plastic boats was that once again it was to be their day and the hard work was going to be chasing them and keeping within touch of the leading boats. Surprisingly, the H28's (five of us) were managing well in the light stuff to begin and Glen Stanley in Wynella had Vic along for the ride and boy didn't he keep Glen on his toes. Very much in touch and riding the good breezes all the way. Others were not so fortunate and being on the wrong side of the river when the breeze picked up was deadly. Any waft of a breeze and away you went from the pack. For some reason John Wright didn't have that wind shift in his pocket and he and Bill Richards lurked at the back of the pack for most of the day leaving Andrew Bell on the 1st Jindarra and Glen chasing the lead boats. In that event, up front it was diabolical as neither of the two leading plastic boats was prepared to let the other through and they had their own battles as well.
It was a matter of picking the breezes and concentrating as the day went on and when the breeze finally (we thought) packed up, Ron was dispatched to the esky for cold beers for the skipper and crew and almost as soon as the caps were ripped off and the first swallow had, than the breeze started to pick up and away we went again. For once we had a chance to open up a bit of a lead on the way down to Dolphin East and then it was a matter of angles and taking chances on the solidity of the breeze and that it wouldn't drop out as we went over to Heathcote ready to ride the nor wester down to Como and then home. Some boats went down the center and Andrew went hard left, staying out in the north hoping that the pressure would drop out on the other side of the river and he could ride down on the vestiges of the northerly.
By Como, and back into a nor easterly, the leading boats were plastic with one H28 within cooee, but the surprise was that Wynella had snuck in front of the 1st Jindarra and was not going to be overhauled. In fact another plastic had snuck in between the two and on a straight run to the finish there was very little hope of success.
The end of the day saw Glen take 2nd on handicap, with Mariner taking 5th on handicap and the rest of the H28's occupying the last three slots. Over the line Mariner was third behind Crossroads and Chrysalis and Glen took 4th over the line. Well sailed all, and it was indeed a hard day on the water requiring concentration by all.
Wednesday the 22nd of April Opening Day for the Winter Season
Light breezes and a westerly would predicate a light breezes flag, or even a course two at the best. But no we got a course one and again it was a soldiers course tracking after each other with very few passing lanes. In fact the race was won after we went too early after Sampson. Another 2 or 3 hundred yards would have put us into a lift and taken us up to Deepwater. But no we didn't and Swiftsure Saga slipped through us having done that extra yardage. Much cursing and gnashing of teeth as we worked our way up toward Deepwater and Swiftsure just kept on getting away. Our next problem was to keep John Wright off our tail and we managed to do that successfully. But that's not all. It was a plastic day and no matter how well we were doing, the plastics were going to do well in the light stuff and so it was on handicap that Chelsea ( who? ) got the gong with Crossroads coming in second and Swiftsure Saga third. Wynella was fourth on handicap and Mariner 5th. Over the line Bill Richards was first with Crossroads second and Mariner third.
It was interesting to see that Vic had taken Lockies boat out with Rita and Jeff and that Bella was left in the pens for another day. Ok it was a new boat for him to drive and I wonder whether he might get better as the days progress. Noted as well that Alma was up on the slips for a survey........ sooner or later we will be told whether she has been sold. Hope she stays in the club.
Light breezes and a westerly would predicate a light breezes flag, or even a course two at the best. But no we got a course one and again it was a soldiers course tracking after each other with very few passing lanes. In fact the race was won after we went too early after Sampson. Another 2 or 3 hundred yards would have put us into a lift and taken us up to Deepwater. But no we didn't and Swiftsure Saga slipped through us having done that extra yardage. Much cursing and gnashing of teeth as we worked our way up toward Deepwater and Swiftsure just kept on getting away. Our next problem was to keep John Wright off our tail and we managed to do that successfully. But that's not all. It was a plastic day and no matter how well we were doing, the plastics were going to do well in the light stuff and so it was on handicap that Chelsea ( who? ) got the gong with Crossroads coming in second and Swiftsure Saga third. Wynella was fourth on handicap and Mariner 5th. Over the line Bill Richards was first with Crossroads second and Mariner third.
It was interesting to see that Vic had taken Lockies boat out with Rita and Jeff and that Bella was left in the pens for another day. Ok it was a new boat for him to drive and I wonder whether he might get better as the days progress. Noted as well that Alma was up on the slips for a survey........ sooner or later we will be told whether she has been sold. Hope she stays in the club.
Saturday the 18th of April Closing Day for the summer season of Saturday Sailing
With not very many hopes on offer of any breeze at all, we all dressed up, well most of us, and headed out onto the water. Fortunately no one had water bombs in our fleet, but the younger ones in the 22's and 27's were happily pelting any and every one in range. Of the H28 fleet two boats stood out ... Dave Locke's crowd on Corella with their skipper making good on the trip to Bali offer by dressing them all up and offering stinging cocktails served by the lovely Debs. The boat looked good too! Nerrima was a different beast with the crew electing to go out for cocktails and dressing for the occasion, though how the boys didn't cook in their suits ??????
So back to the day on the water. One of the fancies of the race management is that going up to Brickies twice is a short course :-( . How they arrived at that is any ones guess. And there was no provision for shortening the race in light winds :-( . So we set off in a zephyr that was deteriorating as the day progressed and it was clear that by the time we had reached Brickies the first time, that it was going to be a long, long day. A pity really as it was Wynella's day, slipping from puff to puff and getting well ahead of time. In fact she had made Brickies for the second time by 5 pm and if she hadn't had to return to Dolphin East and back to Deepwater, may very well have won. But the start closed at 5.15 pm and there was no way she could make it and as the rest of the H28's motored their way home a little after 4.30, the rest of the fleets were starting to drop their sails and go home as well.
In all, 5 fleets didn't get one boat over the line before 5.15 pm and 2 others managed to get one boat at least over the line in time. Perhaps the race management people would look at having an alternative course for the lighter days?
As for the best dressed boat on the day? Well they had forgotten it completely and only after a few shouts from the crowd did they realize and awarded the best boat to Lockie and Corella. Poor consolation for a dud of a race, but taken non the less. I still liked Les' effort though. The girls dressed very well in their cocktail outfits and who's ever seen a foredeckie in anything but shorts and thongs.
With not very many hopes on offer of any breeze at all, we all dressed up, well most of us, and headed out onto the water. Fortunately no one had water bombs in our fleet, but the younger ones in the 22's and 27's were happily pelting any and every one in range. Of the H28 fleet two boats stood out ... Dave Locke's crowd on Corella with their skipper making good on the trip to Bali offer by dressing them all up and offering stinging cocktails served by the lovely Debs. The boat looked good too! Nerrima was a different beast with the crew electing to go out for cocktails and dressing for the occasion, though how the boys didn't cook in their suits ??????
So back to the day on the water. One of the fancies of the race management is that going up to Brickies twice is a short course :-( . How they arrived at that is any ones guess. And there was no provision for shortening the race in light winds :-( . So we set off in a zephyr that was deteriorating as the day progressed and it was clear that by the time we had reached Brickies the first time, that it was going to be a long, long day. A pity really as it was Wynella's day, slipping from puff to puff and getting well ahead of time. In fact she had made Brickies for the second time by 5 pm and if she hadn't had to return to Dolphin East and back to Deepwater, may very well have won. But the start closed at 5.15 pm and there was no way she could make it and as the rest of the H28's motored their way home a little after 4.30, the rest of the fleets were starting to drop their sails and go home as well.
In all, 5 fleets didn't get one boat over the line before 5.15 pm and 2 others managed to get one boat at least over the line in time. Perhaps the race management people would look at having an alternative course for the lighter days?
As for the best dressed boat on the day? Well they had forgotten it completely and only after a few shouts from the crowd did they realize and awarded the best boat to Lockie and Corella. Poor consolation for a dud of a race, but taken non the less. I still liked Les' effort though. The girls dressed very well in their cocktail outfits and who's ever seen a foredeckie in anything but shorts and thongs.
Images from on board Nerrima. Photos courtesy Gina Pickering
Wednesday the 15th of April Closing Day for the summer season of Wednesday sailing.
A great day on the water with those shifty easterlies in fine form.
A good number of boats were limbering up and a very generous offer from Jay, who is still in New Zealand, meant that Vic could take to the water in Bella. Tony and Oscar took to the water with Mrs.Tony (sorry) and they enjoyed the day immensely. Tony was murmuring about switching to sail on Saturdays as he has picked up a job recently. Priorities Tony! Get your sailing stuff together. But if needs be, the fleet will take Oscar on board as a crew man any time! Bill has repaired his boat in a temporary manner and has made a booking for the boat to go up on blocks for some big time repair work. John Woolhouse was seen on board with Bill as well and it appears that he was just looking for a ride for the day. To have some one who has sailed a SS27 around the world on your boat is a plus indeed. Another guest appearance was Steve Hartley who sailed with John Wright on Anna. Steve had the last gaff rig (Marie) at the club and took her to Sydney with him when he went on assignment with his work. Lovely to see him over here again.
The starters has given us a Martin - Weaver start (southerly) with a light winds course that meant that the start was vital as it was a soldiers course from there on. With a bit of luck and some advice from our sail maker Rees Howell we started about two thirds up the line from the box and got in those vital tacks staying in phase with the wind for once. By Martin we only had a SS22 in front of us and it was a case of hit the corner at Weaver and work the puffs coming down the Canning to improve our lead and roll the 22.
By Sampson, it was a case of staying in front. Various challenges were thrown up by Lockie, the SS22 and John Wright but staying the leader was the game and with urging from his crew and the sail maker, Brian was focused on the win for almost all of the race. Just the occasional brain fade when the breeze switched abruptly from a south-easterly to a north-easterly. Still that's the easterly for you. Capricious breeze that she is.
Over the line first and far enough in front to take first and fastest, thanks to the new sails ( photo's included) and many thanks to our sail maker, a young man who normally sails on Indian, a Carkeek 47. John Wright was second and second on handicap with Glen Stanley third on handicap and the SS22 took third over the line.
To the C division Wednesday Championships Summer series. Bill RIchards on Swiftsure Saga first, Brian Cross on Mariner second and on equal points but less firsts was Peter Lewis's SS22 Crossroads who frankly sailed brilliantly all season. Yes there is room for him on an H28 any time.
Ok, we were lucky. There is still a long way to go with these new sails and learning about them will take the next few months. Don't expect us out the front again for a while.
A great day on the water with those shifty easterlies in fine form.
A good number of boats were limbering up and a very generous offer from Jay, who is still in New Zealand, meant that Vic could take to the water in Bella. Tony and Oscar took to the water with Mrs.Tony (sorry) and they enjoyed the day immensely. Tony was murmuring about switching to sail on Saturdays as he has picked up a job recently. Priorities Tony! Get your sailing stuff together. But if needs be, the fleet will take Oscar on board as a crew man any time! Bill has repaired his boat in a temporary manner and has made a booking for the boat to go up on blocks for some big time repair work. John Woolhouse was seen on board with Bill as well and it appears that he was just looking for a ride for the day. To have some one who has sailed a SS27 around the world on your boat is a plus indeed. Another guest appearance was Steve Hartley who sailed with John Wright on Anna. Steve had the last gaff rig (Marie) at the club and took her to Sydney with him when he went on assignment with his work. Lovely to see him over here again.
The starters has given us a Martin - Weaver start (southerly) with a light winds course that meant that the start was vital as it was a soldiers course from there on. With a bit of luck and some advice from our sail maker Rees Howell we started about two thirds up the line from the box and got in those vital tacks staying in phase with the wind for once. By Martin we only had a SS22 in front of us and it was a case of hit the corner at Weaver and work the puffs coming down the Canning to improve our lead and roll the 22.
By Sampson, it was a case of staying in front. Various challenges were thrown up by Lockie, the SS22 and John Wright but staying the leader was the game and with urging from his crew and the sail maker, Brian was focused on the win for almost all of the race. Just the occasional brain fade when the breeze switched abruptly from a south-easterly to a north-easterly. Still that's the easterly for you. Capricious breeze that she is.
Over the line first and far enough in front to take first and fastest, thanks to the new sails ( photo's included) and many thanks to our sail maker, a young man who normally sails on Indian, a Carkeek 47. John Wright was second and second on handicap with Glen Stanley third on handicap and the SS22 took third over the line.
To the C division Wednesday Championships Summer series. Bill RIchards on Swiftsure Saga first, Brian Cross on Mariner second and on equal points but less firsts was Peter Lewis's SS22 Crossroads who frankly sailed brilliantly all season. Yes there is room for him on an H28 any time.
Ok, we were lucky. There is still a long way to go with these new sails and learning about them will take the next few months. Don't expect us out the front again for a while.
Saturday the 11th of April The last championship race of the season.
OMG.
What a day on the water. With nothing to lose, Andrew Bell went out onto the water with a crack crew and sailed away with the race. We had a course one with the breeze fluctuating between a west sou west and a true south westerly and the wind strength between 15 to 18 on the bottom and gusts up to 23 knots. Staying in phase was going to be the trick and a good start would be the kicker that gets you under way. Keeping up with the First Jindarra and Swiftsure Saga was important and keeping Corella behind us was the other thing we had to accomplish.
Then it happened....again... Swiftsure Saga in a port - starboard with a SS27 from SoPYC. This time Bill was on starboard on the first beat into Waylen Bay but it appears that no one was on look out as I'm sure that Bill would have tacked off to avoid more damage to his beloved boat. The photo of the SS27 shows damage to the bow and the long distance shot of SsSaga shows a hole punched in the hull between the winches with no significant damage to the rail. Bill returned home to lick his wounds as did the SS27. On the way up there wasn't much discussion about the collision, but with Bill out it meant we had to stay ahead of Corella at all costs. The consistency trophy depended on it.
Wynella had tacked in early to the bay and had to re lay the attempt as she was under Heathcote cliffs. This left her with a significant time disadvantage and she suffered for it all day. Nerrima was lagging as well, but I'm not sure whether it was a case of the slows or an indifferent sail selection for the day.
So, on our way up to Brickies for the second time with Corella hot on our heels and loud screaming broke out ahead of us. Not again! This time it was the First Jindarra calling a SS24 from Freshie to tack or dip. No response and it was only a crash tack that saved both boats from a nasty incident. But you could hear the bang as the hulls met and in pretty much the same spot that Bill had his coming together two weeks ago. The photo shows the culprit still on his way up afterwards and Andrew admitted that he crash tacked on to an amazing lift up to Brickies. That's how your luck goes sometimes.
The last run down to Addison was noted by a couple of the H28's, ourselves included, developing a case of the rock and rolls under spinnaker and while more or less controllable, there was the odd heart in the mouth lurch as we went from one wave to the other. It was clear though that the drop of the spinnaker halyard from the mast head to a meter below the top had dampened the oscillations markedly as I've seen far worse that this.
So to the finish with Andrew Bell in front, John Wright second and Corella third over the line. Then pack the boats away and see Swiftsure Saga with the covers on and a patch on the hull, protecting the wood from the showers that were coming through. A bit of luck occurred and a puff of breeze had flicked the rain jacket protecting the patch away and a hurried photo or two taken from the Golden Eagle next door revealed the damage to the hull. We thoughtfully replaced the jacket before leaving.
Enjoy the images.
OMG.
What a day on the water. With nothing to lose, Andrew Bell went out onto the water with a crack crew and sailed away with the race. We had a course one with the breeze fluctuating between a west sou west and a true south westerly and the wind strength between 15 to 18 on the bottom and gusts up to 23 knots. Staying in phase was going to be the trick and a good start would be the kicker that gets you under way. Keeping up with the First Jindarra and Swiftsure Saga was important and keeping Corella behind us was the other thing we had to accomplish.
Then it happened....again... Swiftsure Saga in a port - starboard with a SS27 from SoPYC. This time Bill was on starboard on the first beat into Waylen Bay but it appears that no one was on look out as I'm sure that Bill would have tacked off to avoid more damage to his beloved boat. The photo of the SS27 shows damage to the bow and the long distance shot of SsSaga shows a hole punched in the hull between the winches with no significant damage to the rail. Bill returned home to lick his wounds as did the SS27. On the way up there wasn't much discussion about the collision, but with Bill out it meant we had to stay ahead of Corella at all costs. The consistency trophy depended on it.
Wynella had tacked in early to the bay and had to re lay the attempt as she was under Heathcote cliffs. This left her with a significant time disadvantage and she suffered for it all day. Nerrima was lagging as well, but I'm not sure whether it was a case of the slows or an indifferent sail selection for the day.
So, on our way up to Brickies for the second time with Corella hot on our heels and loud screaming broke out ahead of us. Not again! This time it was the First Jindarra calling a SS24 from Freshie to tack or dip. No response and it was only a crash tack that saved both boats from a nasty incident. But you could hear the bang as the hulls met and in pretty much the same spot that Bill had his coming together two weeks ago. The photo shows the culprit still on his way up afterwards and Andrew admitted that he crash tacked on to an amazing lift up to Brickies. That's how your luck goes sometimes.
The last run down to Addison was noted by a couple of the H28's, ourselves included, developing a case of the rock and rolls under spinnaker and while more or less controllable, there was the odd heart in the mouth lurch as we went from one wave to the other. It was clear though that the drop of the spinnaker halyard from the mast head to a meter below the top had dampened the oscillations markedly as I've seen far worse that this.
So to the finish with Andrew Bell in front, John Wright second and Corella third over the line. Then pack the boats away and see Swiftsure Saga with the covers on and a patch on the hull, protecting the wood from the showers that were coming through. A bit of luck occurred and a puff of breeze had flicked the rain jacket protecting the patch away and a hurried photo or two taken from the Golden Eagle next door revealed the damage to the hull. We thoughtfully replaced the jacket before leaving.
Enjoy the images.
Wednesday the 8th of April
Why not. Lets put up the big one.
A very light day, with a breeze that started in the north east and swung around into the west. With the breeze predicted to stay under 10 knots and the need to push Swiftsure Saga as hard as we could, we strapped on the big one and went for our lives. And it worked fairly well for us. It was a soldiers course naturally and the light winds flag did us no favours as we worked our way around the track. Vic Court went out with the Hermoso's, Tony and Oscar and Jeff joined Swiftsure Saga. Kate and the girls kept well clear of Bill by staying well behind him and Glen Stanley looked positively dangerous up to Robins and then slowly dropped back on the down wind leg. Should have put up the big one Glen.
An exciting moment occurred at Como, when Bill on Swiftsure refused to believe that an approaching RP boat had overlap rights on the mark (and it was close) and took the corner as he meant to. The discussion on our boat was more to the point. The RP boat was on port and gybing onto starboard as he approached. He may have had the overlap, but lost speed in the gybe from port to starboard and may have broken the overlap. The umpire would have put the green flag up.
Only 5 H28's on the water with 2 SS22's joining us meant that we had to work hard to stay ahead of the yellow boat and it was quite clear that Wildfire driven by Bruce Uren was chasing us relentlessly. He could smell another win if he kept within 3 minutes of us and for most of the time we were the required distance ahead. But a tacking duel with Swiftsure Saga in the small triangle cost us time and let him catch up. Yes we got so close to Bill, but couldn't get past him and he ran away on the reach to Thelma and thence to the finish line.
So with Bill keeping ahead of us, it has confirmed his spot as the lead boat in the H28's and the summer consistency. The absence of Andrew Bell today with a lack of crew meant that Mariner slipped through into third behind Wildfire (the SS22) and should be able to retain that spot.
Congratulations to Steve Hill and Karoleeya who have been attending the Retro series and has stolen away with the Div. two trophy. Well sailed that boat.
Why not. Lets put up the big one.
A very light day, with a breeze that started in the north east and swung around into the west. With the breeze predicted to stay under 10 knots and the need to push Swiftsure Saga as hard as we could, we strapped on the big one and went for our lives. And it worked fairly well for us. It was a soldiers course naturally and the light winds flag did us no favours as we worked our way around the track. Vic Court went out with the Hermoso's, Tony and Oscar and Jeff joined Swiftsure Saga. Kate and the girls kept well clear of Bill by staying well behind him and Glen Stanley looked positively dangerous up to Robins and then slowly dropped back on the down wind leg. Should have put up the big one Glen.
An exciting moment occurred at Como, when Bill on Swiftsure refused to believe that an approaching RP boat had overlap rights on the mark (and it was close) and took the corner as he meant to. The discussion on our boat was more to the point. The RP boat was on port and gybing onto starboard as he approached. He may have had the overlap, but lost speed in the gybe from port to starboard and may have broken the overlap. The umpire would have put the green flag up.
Only 5 H28's on the water with 2 SS22's joining us meant that we had to work hard to stay ahead of the yellow boat and it was quite clear that Wildfire driven by Bruce Uren was chasing us relentlessly. He could smell another win if he kept within 3 minutes of us and for most of the time we were the required distance ahead. But a tacking duel with Swiftsure Saga in the small triangle cost us time and let him catch up. Yes we got so close to Bill, but couldn't get past him and he ran away on the reach to Thelma and thence to the finish line.
So with Bill keeping ahead of us, it has confirmed his spot as the lead boat in the H28's and the summer consistency. The absence of Andrew Bell today with a lack of crew meant that Mariner slipped through into third behind Wildfire (the SS22) and should be able to retain that spot.
Congratulations to Steve Hill and Karoleeya who have been attending the Retro series and has stolen away with the Div. two trophy. Well sailed that boat.
Wednesday the 1st of April (April Fools Day)
Don't stuff up the start!
It was perfectly simple. Simply aim at the pin end and cross the line.
We were given a course one with an Easterly blowing and the usual mood swings in the breeze etc. A soldiers course quite possibly. So the start was going to be vital and we watched the other fleets try and cross the line at the pin end. Bumping, grinding and cursing. So why did we try to do the same? Hindsight would have us starting 40 meters above the pin in relatively clear air with a chance to get across the fleet over to the freeway side and ride the express down to Sampson.
Nope, so we ended up t-boning the pin, doing a 360 and glancing off JW's Anna and doing a 360 to cover ourselves. Last again. So off we went and managed to pull back 3 boats by Sampson and then it was a case of chase the gusts as we worked our way to Deepwater swapping between a reach and a pole all the way down. 2 more boats. The lead boats were Swiftsure Saga, patched but sailing; Lockie and Corella (with Vic on board) and Andrew Bell being pestered by and in turn pestering John Wright who had sailed really well to get up into the lead group. Not that we were far off either, just didn't have the drive in our sails. Glen with Wynella and Tony H with Georgina were both on the water and Georgina was being helmed by Tony's son Oscar. Did a fair job of it too. All in all 7 H28's on the water. Down to the start line for the final triangle and around we go again with no chance of passing anyone except for the games being played at the front with Corella and Swiftsure Saga enjoying their moment. Bill was first over the line and third on handicap. Dave Locke was second over the line and first on handicap with a plastic boat filling the second place on handicap.
At present it looks like a win to Bill with a plastic second and quite possibly either The First Jindarra or Mariner up for a third.
Don't stuff up the start!
It was perfectly simple. Simply aim at the pin end and cross the line.
We were given a course one with an Easterly blowing and the usual mood swings in the breeze etc. A soldiers course quite possibly. So the start was going to be vital and we watched the other fleets try and cross the line at the pin end. Bumping, grinding and cursing. So why did we try to do the same? Hindsight would have us starting 40 meters above the pin in relatively clear air with a chance to get across the fleet over to the freeway side and ride the express down to Sampson.
Nope, so we ended up t-boning the pin, doing a 360 and glancing off JW's Anna and doing a 360 to cover ourselves. Last again. So off we went and managed to pull back 3 boats by Sampson and then it was a case of chase the gusts as we worked our way to Deepwater swapping between a reach and a pole all the way down. 2 more boats. The lead boats were Swiftsure Saga, patched but sailing; Lockie and Corella (with Vic on board) and Andrew Bell being pestered by and in turn pestering John Wright who had sailed really well to get up into the lead group. Not that we were far off either, just didn't have the drive in our sails. Glen with Wynella and Tony H with Georgina were both on the water and Georgina was being helmed by Tony's son Oscar. Did a fair job of it too. All in all 7 H28's on the water. Down to the start line for the final triangle and around we go again with no chance of passing anyone except for the games being played at the front with Corella and Swiftsure Saga enjoying their moment. Bill was first over the line and third on handicap. Dave Locke was second over the line and first on handicap with a plastic boat filling the second place on handicap.
At present it looks like a win to Bill with a plastic second and quite possibly either The First Jindarra or Mariner up for a third.
Saturday the 28th of March 6th Championship Day
This was the day that would decide the championship for the season.
In the days prior, the best three boats were on the slips getting their bottoms cleaned, or had been given a good scrub by the skipper on the race day. Nine boats were contesting the day and nothing was being left to chance, though the odds offered on The First Jindarra were lessening as the race grew nearer. Then on the day, his crew started to arrive. One of the Murray mob, Mark Rodereda off Calm and Brownie and Peter (regular Wednesday crew). Yup. That'll do it.
The rest of us assembled our regular crews and set off for the encounter on Melville Water in a light west south westerly of about 10 to 15 knots and sure enough, up went the light winds course (number 4). According to Andrew Bell, the pin end was favoured heavily and he proved it by getting away to a cracker of a start that had him in the lead by 100 meters by the first toss with Lockie and Corella closest to him.
Quite correctly, the rest of us followed with boats peeling off as they fell into the leading boats foul air. No one went right in as the run to Deepwater was achievable with another tack in from around Frenchy's and it was only when we got to Deepwater that the run across to Hallmark was thought to be achievable under a shy kite. Andrew proved it and one or two of us threw one up as well, but the fleet in the main stayed without. A good drop at Hallmark let us draw closer to Lockie and then the run up to Armstrong had the rest of the fleet sort themselves out with Vic Court (Carina) and Bill Richard's Swiftsure Saga making good ground and getting up there before us. We now had Andrew way out front and a pack of four boats jostling for position with Phil Lammonby on Soraya within striking distance behind us.
The run down to Print under kite was a win/lose proposition for many as the breeze began to build and turn into the south and we had 15 knots on the base. Good kite setting and drops meant valuable time and distance gains and getting through these boats was a big advantage for us. We had advanced to third with Bill in front of us and the ever reliable Vic Court making good time out on the side. Turning at Print we took off to Deepwater again and Vic slipped past, but we were defending our position and so it remained for the next lap with boats gaining and losing places as the breeze took its fancy with us. In the background, Nerrima, Wynella and Karoleeya had been swapping places with Karoleeya staying ahead in the race.
On the second rounding of Addison we had three boats in front of us as mentioned and it was on the work up to Deepwater that we heard the yelling and then the bang of two boats making heavy contact. A classic port-starboard between 2 H28's. With both boats out of action and fortunately no one hurt, we sailed on, realizing that we were now second and it was up to us to get as far ahead as we could to improve our chances whilst the two damaged boats limped back to the jetty at SoPYC.
Stay in front was the word and we gradually improved our position to the point we had a good hundred meters lead and then was the race finish as we rounded Addison and reached over to Thelma and ran along the beach to a corner opposite the finish line. At the same time, the other boats in the fleet were enjoying a huge lift and were getting good gains on us climbing to the line. But the theory of keeping them behind us had worked, we tacked over the line and took a second for the work done.
Results on handicap had Soraya first Wynella second and Anna third with the First Jindarra fourth.
The Championship race was of course won by The First Jindarra with Anna second, Soraya third and Corella fourth.
Returning to the jetty, it was a rude shock to see the damage to Carina and the smell of torn jarrah was in the air as the gaping hole in the bow rendered most of us speechless. That and a bent spinnaker pole and a number one nearly torn in half. "It could have been worse," mused Geoff, one of Vic's crew. "I was packing the spinnaker down there only minutes earlier." Listening to Vic, he was murmuring something about this being the end of his chances for the championship this year, but I've seen Carina rise from the bottom of the river to win the next week, so I'm not counting him out yet. What he needs is a shipwright to get the boat repaired. What if we spent some time this Easter doing just that? The damage to Swiftsure Saga was not as bad, but it will need some work before she graces the waves again this season with holes on both sides of her bow.
To answer those who may ask. Yes I did have a video camera on board and I did have it running. All it saw was us hitting the lee rail to watch the drama evolve. Sorry. Nothing definite.
Enjoy the images
This was the day that would decide the championship for the season.
In the days prior, the best three boats were on the slips getting their bottoms cleaned, or had been given a good scrub by the skipper on the race day. Nine boats were contesting the day and nothing was being left to chance, though the odds offered on The First Jindarra were lessening as the race grew nearer. Then on the day, his crew started to arrive. One of the Murray mob, Mark Rodereda off Calm and Brownie and Peter (regular Wednesday crew). Yup. That'll do it.
The rest of us assembled our regular crews and set off for the encounter on Melville Water in a light west south westerly of about 10 to 15 knots and sure enough, up went the light winds course (number 4). According to Andrew Bell, the pin end was favoured heavily and he proved it by getting away to a cracker of a start that had him in the lead by 100 meters by the first toss with Lockie and Corella closest to him.
Quite correctly, the rest of us followed with boats peeling off as they fell into the leading boats foul air. No one went right in as the run to Deepwater was achievable with another tack in from around Frenchy's and it was only when we got to Deepwater that the run across to Hallmark was thought to be achievable under a shy kite. Andrew proved it and one or two of us threw one up as well, but the fleet in the main stayed without. A good drop at Hallmark let us draw closer to Lockie and then the run up to Armstrong had the rest of the fleet sort themselves out with Vic Court (Carina) and Bill Richard's Swiftsure Saga making good ground and getting up there before us. We now had Andrew way out front and a pack of four boats jostling for position with Phil Lammonby on Soraya within striking distance behind us.
The run down to Print under kite was a win/lose proposition for many as the breeze began to build and turn into the south and we had 15 knots on the base. Good kite setting and drops meant valuable time and distance gains and getting through these boats was a big advantage for us. We had advanced to third with Bill in front of us and the ever reliable Vic Court making good time out on the side. Turning at Print we took off to Deepwater again and Vic slipped past, but we were defending our position and so it remained for the next lap with boats gaining and losing places as the breeze took its fancy with us. In the background, Nerrima, Wynella and Karoleeya had been swapping places with Karoleeya staying ahead in the race.
On the second rounding of Addison we had three boats in front of us as mentioned and it was on the work up to Deepwater that we heard the yelling and then the bang of two boats making heavy contact. A classic port-starboard between 2 H28's. With both boats out of action and fortunately no one hurt, we sailed on, realizing that we were now second and it was up to us to get as far ahead as we could to improve our chances whilst the two damaged boats limped back to the jetty at SoPYC.
Stay in front was the word and we gradually improved our position to the point we had a good hundred meters lead and then was the race finish as we rounded Addison and reached over to Thelma and ran along the beach to a corner opposite the finish line. At the same time, the other boats in the fleet were enjoying a huge lift and were getting good gains on us climbing to the line. But the theory of keeping them behind us had worked, we tacked over the line and took a second for the work done.
Results on handicap had Soraya first Wynella second and Anna third with the First Jindarra fourth.
The Championship race was of course won by The First Jindarra with Anna second, Soraya third and Corella fourth.
Returning to the jetty, it was a rude shock to see the damage to Carina and the smell of torn jarrah was in the air as the gaping hole in the bow rendered most of us speechless. That and a bent spinnaker pole and a number one nearly torn in half. "It could have been worse," mused Geoff, one of Vic's crew. "I was packing the spinnaker down there only minutes earlier." Listening to Vic, he was murmuring something about this being the end of his chances for the championship this year, but I've seen Carina rise from the bottom of the river to win the next week, so I'm not counting him out yet. What he needs is a shipwright to get the boat repaired. What if we spent some time this Easter doing just that? The damage to Swiftsure Saga was not as bad, but it will need some work before she graces the waves again this season with holes on both sides of her bow.
To answer those who may ask. Yes I did have a video camera on board and I did have it running. All it saw was us hitting the lee rail to watch the drama evolve. Sorry. Nothing definite.
Enjoy the images
Wednesday the 25th of March
Going up the mast for the first time.
Tony H and son Oscar came down to do two things. The first was to remedy the jib halyard that had gone up the mast and afterwards he and Oscar were to go out with Vic Court for the day. A good way to start I think! Anyway, Tony had bought the necessary kit (a breech buoy) to go up the mast and was preparing for the trip up. A few good souls were prepared to help winch him up and offer free advice while he was there, then let him down, though some wag said "shall we leave him up there?" The photo's show Tony on the job at the jib halyard exit point from the mast and then hitting terra firma again. Well done Tony, you've joined the clan of mast climbers.
Riding the Freeway Express.
On an Easterly with a light winds course offered, it was going to be a day for the plastic boats, so it was going to be a matter of pride to be the first H28 over the line and as near to the winners as possible. A start to Sampson on a reach had us holding position with (for once) most of the predators behind us. Getting past Lockie was going to be the question at Sampson and the reach over to Robins was the next task with the gusts being the major contributors in the race. Still couldn't get past Lockie and in the background, Bill Richards was seen having a problem with a plastic boat. He was below and couldn't get past it. Several boats were within reaching distance but as they picked up a gust, so did we. Then off to Dolphin East, or where we though it was. Lockie had a GPS on the boat so we presume he knew where it was and once he turned the rest of the boats solemnly made their way to his wake corner and turned as well. Well most of them did anyway,with one or two cutting corners and one boat did in a spectacular manner, but I guess he has his own GPS >>>>>>>>>>!
Didn't affect the final outcome as we made our way to the outer start line and got to the corner just behind Vic Court with Lockie a little further ahead. Around the corner and claim an inside overlap on Vic who'd gone wide and slipped past him in the next few meters. Only Lockie to get now. The well known triangle of chance was offered to us .... Foam, Print, Como, Thelma and home. Pick the gusts was the call and by following Lockie we would only end up behind him. So go left and look for the gusts and find them. Around Foam just behind and trim like the very devil to stay there. Watch Lockie go right after Print and then go deep into the corner near Como jetty to pick up the breeze off the land and get caught in irons on a speculative tack. Wriggle out of it and go deeper. Turn right on the knock and ride the freeway express, lifting to Thelma with Lockie coming in on starboard behind us. Stay in front was the call and lift to the line till the outer start line buoy came into sight on our port transom and gently tack over the line to take second on the line behind a speedy SS22 helmed by Peter Lewis, but first H28 over the line. That'll do.
Andy Bell had been behind us all day, always posing a threat but not quite getting the same speed we were; he took fourth over the line behind David Locke with Vic Court fifth over the line. Talking to Bill Richards afterwards, he acknowledged that he had a bad day and I agreed, we've all had them, better luck next week. But the Easterly is a tricky beast to sail on in anyone's language.
Going up the mast for the first time.
Tony H and son Oscar came down to do two things. The first was to remedy the jib halyard that had gone up the mast and afterwards he and Oscar were to go out with Vic Court for the day. A good way to start I think! Anyway, Tony had bought the necessary kit (a breech buoy) to go up the mast and was preparing for the trip up. A few good souls were prepared to help winch him up and offer free advice while he was there, then let him down, though some wag said "shall we leave him up there?" The photo's show Tony on the job at the jib halyard exit point from the mast and then hitting terra firma again. Well done Tony, you've joined the clan of mast climbers.
Riding the Freeway Express.
On an Easterly with a light winds course offered, it was going to be a day for the plastic boats, so it was going to be a matter of pride to be the first H28 over the line and as near to the winners as possible. A start to Sampson on a reach had us holding position with (for once) most of the predators behind us. Getting past Lockie was going to be the question at Sampson and the reach over to Robins was the next task with the gusts being the major contributors in the race. Still couldn't get past Lockie and in the background, Bill Richards was seen having a problem with a plastic boat. He was below and couldn't get past it. Several boats were within reaching distance but as they picked up a gust, so did we. Then off to Dolphin East, or where we though it was. Lockie had a GPS on the boat so we presume he knew where it was and once he turned the rest of the boats solemnly made their way to his wake corner and turned as well. Well most of them did anyway,with one or two cutting corners and one boat did in a spectacular manner, but I guess he has his own GPS >>>>>>>>>>!
Didn't affect the final outcome as we made our way to the outer start line and got to the corner just behind Vic Court with Lockie a little further ahead. Around the corner and claim an inside overlap on Vic who'd gone wide and slipped past him in the next few meters. Only Lockie to get now. The well known triangle of chance was offered to us .... Foam, Print, Como, Thelma and home. Pick the gusts was the call and by following Lockie we would only end up behind him. So go left and look for the gusts and find them. Around Foam just behind and trim like the very devil to stay there. Watch Lockie go right after Print and then go deep into the corner near Como jetty to pick up the breeze off the land and get caught in irons on a speculative tack. Wriggle out of it and go deeper. Turn right on the knock and ride the freeway express, lifting to Thelma with Lockie coming in on starboard behind us. Stay in front was the call and lift to the line till the outer start line buoy came into sight on our port transom and gently tack over the line to take second on the line behind a speedy SS22 helmed by Peter Lewis, but first H28 over the line. That'll do.
Andy Bell had been behind us all day, always posing a threat but not quite getting the same speed we were; he took fourth over the line behind David Locke with Vic Court fifth over the line. Talking to Bill Richards afterwards, he acknowledged that he had a bad day and I agreed, we've all had them, better luck next week. But the Easterly is a tricky beast to sail on in anyone's language.
The Wooden Boat Race and Regatta 2015 March the 21st
Well we wanted a day with a bit more breeze and we got it.
See below.
See below.
The concept was to get a bit more breeze and to offer a chance for the retro boats to come out and play by creating a more appropriate time of the year for them. It was therefore disappointing to hear from chairman Glen that a lot of boats had pulled out due to the incipient weather forecast. But this is when we come out to play. And didn't Hughie come to the party!
We were fortunate to have a visitor Adam Milburn (Cimba ) and his wife who were two up, but still prepared to give it a go. Georgina (Tony Hermoso) came out to play along with Colin Youngs for a bit of moral support and Vic Court finally made it out (though the sound of an angle grinder in the boat that afternoon was a little worrying). Napier of Carrick came out to join the fleet but the family was strictly cruising and promptly retired after the racing commenced but managed to create a little concern as the starters thought they were part of the fleet and promptly gave two hoots to signal an OCS.
Ralph and Lynne Newton's Eun na Mara was in evidence with Koomela's owner Mark Walters as part of the crew and Araluen helmed by Paul Rickets was the sole Gaffa in sight and bless them for fronting up. Phil Lammonby thought that he could replace the inner shrouds on Saturday am and get onto the water but was disappointed quickly when he discovered that the ones he had been given (from Alma) were too long. Then Karoleeya dropped their mast to replace the wind indicator and it wasn't going back up again. Hi ho! But Gina Pickering had Sacha ready to go with long time friend and crew David Swain to give her a hand. Visitors from the US were quickly spread amongst the fleet and in our case very welcome as we were two up at 1 pm. Good to see you Matt.
Then the party commenced and the dash to Sampson was on. By the first corner the fleet was sorting itself out and 1st Jindarra was around directly after Eun Na Mara and while we let Ralph take the lead and the over all win, the battle was on amongst the fleet. Andrew Bell and Bill Richards were in fine fettle and they commenced to chase each other around the course. The next pairing was ourselves and David Locke and David took the advantage of a great run up to Deepwater to get through us under power and then we were fighting off John Wright who was tapping on our transom as hard as he could, to eventually get through on the final run to Como. Well done John. Leslie Brooker on Nerrima, Vic Court and Carina with Glen Stanley's Wynella rounded up the fleet. Three boats retired ( thanks to the high winds ) and I'd still like to mention them for starting with us. They were Georgina, Cimba and Sacha.
Along the way Les Brooker must have been sailing well, as his handicap took him from 6th to first on handicap and second in the overall Combined race. Eun Na Mara took the Combined win with a first and fastest as did Araluen for the Old Gaffas.
Enjoy the images.
We were fortunate to have a visitor Adam Milburn (Cimba ) and his wife who were two up, but still prepared to give it a go. Georgina (Tony Hermoso) came out to play along with Colin Youngs for a bit of moral support and Vic Court finally made it out (though the sound of an angle grinder in the boat that afternoon was a little worrying). Napier of Carrick came out to join the fleet but the family was strictly cruising and promptly retired after the racing commenced but managed to create a little concern as the starters thought they were part of the fleet and promptly gave two hoots to signal an OCS.
Ralph and Lynne Newton's Eun na Mara was in evidence with Koomela's owner Mark Walters as part of the crew and Araluen helmed by Paul Rickets was the sole Gaffa in sight and bless them for fronting up. Phil Lammonby thought that he could replace the inner shrouds on Saturday am and get onto the water but was disappointed quickly when he discovered that the ones he had been given (from Alma) were too long. Then Karoleeya dropped their mast to replace the wind indicator and it wasn't going back up again. Hi ho! But Gina Pickering had Sacha ready to go with long time friend and crew David Swain to give her a hand. Visitors from the US were quickly spread amongst the fleet and in our case very welcome as we were two up at 1 pm. Good to see you Matt.
Then the party commenced and the dash to Sampson was on. By the first corner the fleet was sorting itself out and 1st Jindarra was around directly after Eun Na Mara and while we let Ralph take the lead and the over all win, the battle was on amongst the fleet. Andrew Bell and Bill Richards were in fine fettle and they commenced to chase each other around the course. The next pairing was ourselves and David Locke and David took the advantage of a great run up to Deepwater to get through us under power and then we were fighting off John Wright who was tapping on our transom as hard as he could, to eventually get through on the final run to Como. Well done John. Leslie Brooker on Nerrima, Vic Court and Carina with Glen Stanley's Wynella rounded up the fleet. Three boats retired ( thanks to the high winds ) and I'd still like to mention them for starting with us. They were Georgina, Cimba and Sacha.
Along the way Les Brooker must have been sailing well, as his handicap took him from 6th to first on handicap and second in the overall Combined race. Eun Na Mara took the Combined win with a first and fastest as did Araluen for the Old Gaffas.
Enjoy the images.
The 18th of March Wednesday Sailing
"Its got holes in it"
(Quote of the day from Vic Court)
A South Westerly of good proportion was blowing and we thought very hard over what to put up. In fact the number two was already hanked on and then the 4th member of the crew rocked up. Beauty said the skipper. Up goes the number one! So dutifully we removed the two, put on the one and took off. Then the starters threw up a course three for a southerly and a run up to Martin Weaver as well. Good oh! At least we can get a good chance to beat the yachts up to Martin as this is a specialty for us. We can do it very well most days. A mid line start had us well away and only AB managed to get away from us but two hoots from the starter alerted us to an OCS and it wasn't us. Vic went back and down went the flag, though we were all sure that AB was very close and he admitted it afterwards, that he was glad that Vic had returned. Around Martin and across to Weaver on Andrews tail and chase him all day as it turned out. But we were well ahead and the plastics had done well to end up close behind us and separating the H28 fleet into two. Swiftsure Saga, Wynella and Carina (eventually) tailed the fleet.
But not for long and the run across to King had some going early and some going late, but it was a matter of making the decision to go into Waylen Bay and trying to pick up the lift. Right behind Andrew on Jindarra and we watched him lift all the way while we had to throw in an extra two tacks to get deeper in to get the lifts we wanted ( Bill on Swiftsure got it in one as well ) Oh for new sails ! Round Robins and down to Print then cross to Foam and up to Robins again. By this time Jindarra is so far in front we were looking astern to ensure we could keep Swiftsure off our tails. Damn he points well with the tape drive sails.
By now the separation of the first three boats from the rest of the fleet is obvious and only Carina ( Vic ) is punching through the plastics and going forward. And so he should, he had a crack team of borrowed sailors on board and it's the first time he's had four on the boat since his brothers came out for a sail a few years ago. Eventually Swiftsure slips past us on the finishing small triangle after the outer start line and only silliness would make it worse for us. And it did. A monumental stuff up by the crew on the corner at Addison cost us 20 seconds at least and probably 2nd place on handicap. The less said the better. Andy Bell picked up first and fastest with a plastic second on handicap and Swiftsure second over the line. We (Mariner) got third and third. ( sorry no photo's I was busy)
An H28 has been found in Hobart Tasmania. It has been suspected that there was an H28 over there and Anita aka Jeanita and Oyster has popped her head up.
Chairman Glen was recently contacted by the new owners of Anita ( Oyster ) who have taken on the custodial duties for Anita. Good on them. I'll update the website shortly and the pictures below show her both on the water in WA and in Tas.
"Its got holes in it"
(Quote of the day from Vic Court)
A South Westerly of good proportion was blowing and we thought very hard over what to put up. In fact the number two was already hanked on and then the 4th member of the crew rocked up. Beauty said the skipper. Up goes the number one! So dutifully we removed the two, put on the one and took off. Then the starters threw up a course three for a southerly and a run up to Martin Weaver as well. Good oh! At least we can get a good chance to beat the yachts up to Martin as this is a specialty for us. We can do it very well most days. A mid line start had us well away and only AB managed to get away from us but two hoots from the starter alerted us to an OCS and it wasn't us. Vic went back and down went the flag, though we were all sure that AB was very close and he admitted it afterwards, that he was glad that Vic had returned. Around Martin and across to Weaver on Andrews tail and chase him all day as it turned out. But we were well ahead and the plastics had done well to end up close behind us and separating the H28 fleet into two. Swiftsure Saga, Wynella and Carina (eventually) tailed the fleet.
But not for long and the run across to King had some going early and some going late, but it was a matter of making the decision to go into Waylen Bay and trying to pick up the lift. Right behind Andrew on Jindarra and we watched him lift all the way while we had to throw in an extra two tacks to get deeper in to get the lifts we wanted ( Bill on Swiftsure got it in one as well ) Oh for new sails ! Round Robins and down to Print then cross to Foam and up to Robins again. By this time Jindarra is so far in front we were looking astern to ensure we could keep Swiftsure off our tails. Damn he points well with the tape drive sails.
By now the separation of the first three boats from the rest of the fleet is obvious and only Carina ( Vic ) is punching through the plastics and going forward. And so he should, he had a crack team of borrowed sailors on board and it's the first time he's had four on the boat since his brothers came out for a sail a few years ago. Eventually Swiftsure slips past us on the finishing small triangle after the outer start line and only silliness would make it worse for us. And it did. A monumental stuff up by the crew on the corner at Addison cost us 20 seconds at least and probably 2nd place on handicap. The less said the better. Andy Bell picked up first and fastest with a plastic second on handicap and Swiftsure second over the line. We (Mariner) got third and third. ( sorry no photo's I was busy)
An H28 has been found in Hobart Tasmania. It has been suspected that there was an H28 over there and Anita aka Jeanita and Oyster has popped her head up.
Chairman Glen was recently contacted by the new owners of Anita ( Oyster ) who have taken on the custodial duties for Anita. Good on them. I'll update the website shortly and the pictures below show her both on the water in WA and in Tas.
The 11th of March Wednesday Sailing
Never ever miss a chance to go OCS.
What on earth? Well, we were pushing the start line hard today and the skip got his nose in front a little earlier than he expected. We went up to avoid going OCS, but too late the second horn sounded and as I looked down the line I knew we had to be over. So did Brian. So turn the boat around and go back to the line again.
From there on it was going to be a chase to catch anyone as we had the entire fleet in front of us and not enough breeze to do it with. Sure it was a course one and it went into the south west, but never got above 15 knots all day and the plastics were a wall of contention. By this time AB and Bill R were well in front and the second row consisted of John W, Lockie and Vic C. The third row was comprised of the plastics (apart from the butterfly who was jousting with the second row) Kate L and ourselves. So chase Kate until we finally crossed her and stayed in front (we took three goes at that) and set our sights on Vic and Lockie. It wasn't to be and despite all our good intentions we were at the wrong end of the fleet and stayed there. But on the bright side we had no problems with Thelma and managed to catch up with Vic, finishing 4 seconds behind him. A real handicap improver. For the first and fastest .. The 1st Jindarra, second over the line and on handicap Bill RIchards on Swiftsure Saga and Kate L took third on handicap while John Wright proved that he is indeed a quick boat, taking third over the line. Where did we finish? 7th over the line and 10th on handicap.
Good luck to all of those H28 sailors who are going out with AB on the Billy Run to help/hinder the start boat operations for the day. Looks like a little stormy weather is forecast.
Never ever miss a chance to go OCS.
What on earth? Well, we were pushing the start line hard today and the skip got his nose in front a little earlier than he expected. We went up to avoid going OCS, but too late the second horn sounded and as I looked down the line I knew we had to be over. So did Brian. So turn the boat around and go back to the line again.
From there on it was going to be a chase to catch anyone as we had the entire fleet in front of us and not enough breeze to do it with. Sure it was a course one and it went into the south west, but never got above 15 knots all day and the plastics were a wall of contention. By this time AB and Bill R were well in front and the second row consisted of John W, Lockie and Vic C. The third row was comprised of the plastics (apart from the butterfly who was jousting with the second row) Kate L and ourselves. So chase Kate until we finally crossed her and stayed in front (we took three goes at that) and set our sights on Vic and Lockie. It wasn't to be and despite all our good intentions we were at the wrong end of the fleet and stayed there. But on the bright side we had no problems with Thelma and managed to catch up with Vic, finishing 4 seconds behind him. A real handicap improver. For the first and fastest .. The 1st Jindarra, second over the line and on handicap Bill RIchards on Swiftsure Saga and Kate L took third on handicap while John Wright proved that he is indeed a quick boat, taking third over the line. Where did we finish? 7th over the line and 10th on handicap.
Good luck to all of those H28 sailors who are going out with AB on the Billy Run to help/hinder the start boat operations for the day. Looks like a little stormy weather is forecast.
7th of March 2015 Saturday Sailing and the Jim Leach Memorial race
A fair breeze to sail on.
What a wonderful day on the water. A westerly already in evidence and for once they gave us a light winds course, which is far more interesting than the slog up to Brickies A and B. Then the breeze began to freshen from the 8 to 10 knots to a respectable 12 to 15 knots and by the start we were charging up to the line with good fun in our minds.
Wynella ( Glen Stanley ) got away to a cracker of a start and was pushing Lockie ( Corella ) good and hard. With Mariner skipper ( Brian Cross ) on the main sheet and Colin Youngs (former owner of Georgina) as well and a couple of extra's to help with trimming the boat was performing well up hill. In fact they were still in front at Hallmark and rounded Armstrong a few boat lengths in front. Then came the spinnaker hoist. Corella as usual, was up in a flash while Brian doubling up as forward hand had the un enviable task of setting Wynella's spinnaker with a less than experienced crew. ( how could you get the halyard wrapped around the forestay three times? ) That cost them heaps and by the time that they had a kite up, there was a battle between them and Corella. Corella hit Print first closely followed by Wynella and then came Bill Richards and Swiftsure Saga with Anna fighting off Soraya and Karoleeya.
Back up to Deepwater and a run across to Dolphin East on spinnakers with both Soraya and Karoleeya dropping back and Wynella losing a lot of time by going too deep into the bay. Anna was glad to have a decent heel on the boat as they ran the gauntlet along the line between Applecross Jetty and Applecross Spit. You could see the bottom on the way up to the Spit. Then disaster struck for Glen and his crew. He was still in front of Anna until the time came to put up a spinnaker and then spent the next 10 minutes trawling for prawns when the lock on the halyard popped open. See the photo's for details. Still up to then he'd been doing very well. So Anna surged through and eventually Glen got his kite up (well done Brian) and he started to give Soraya a run for their money.
The third triangle was a repeat of the first except that Wynella was a lot more careful and kept their spinnaker up and continued to hold their own. Bill and Lockie fought it out for a finish and Swiftsure Saga was just beaten by Corella by a matter of seconds. Anna took a good third and Soraya came in fourth with Glen Stanley managing to keep in touch finishing fifth in front of Karoleeya.
Results were a different bag of fish as Glen had sailed well enough to take first on handicap and took the Jim Leach Memorial with Soraya second and Anna sailing to handicap with a third. At this moment the consistency stakes have Swiftsure Saga on 43 with Corella on 45 and Anna on 46. Intuitively these are the boats that are in the battle for the top, but drops have been allotted and unless someone manages to sink the three aforementioned boats, this is how they will finish. Reviewing the Championships at this stage, we have Lockie sitting in the hot seat on 13 points with three boats all carrying 20 points behind him. Of these Andrew Bell is the most likely and unfortunately Anna may be the one to drop out of the top three, leaving Swiftsure Saga to pick up third. Early days yet ....still two races to go.
Enjoy the images
A fair breeze to sail on.
What a wonderful day on the water. A westerly already in evidence and for once they gave us a light winds course, which is far more interesting than the slog up to Brickies A and B. Then the breeze began to freshen from the 8 to 10 knots to a respectable 12 to 15 knots and by the start we were charging up to the line with good fun in our minds.
Wynella ( Glen Stanley ) got away to a cracker of a start and was pushing Lockie ( Corella ) good and hard. With Mariner skipper ( Brian Cross ) on the main sheet and Colin Youngs (former owner of Georgina) as well and a couple of extra's to help with trimming the boat was performing well up hill. In fact they were still in front at Hallmark and rounded Armstrong a few boat lengths in front. Then came the spinnaker hoist. Corella as usual, was up in a flash while Brian doubling up as forward hand had the un enviable task of setting Wynella's spinnaker with a less than experienced crew. ( how could you get the halyard wrapped around the forestay three times? ) That cost them heaps and by the time that they had a kite up, there was a battle between them and Corella. Corella hit Print first closely followed by Wynella and then came Bill Richards and Swiftsure Saga with Anna fighting off Soraya and Karoleeya.
Back up to Deepwater and a run across to Dolphin East on spinnakers with both Soraya and Karoleeya dropping back and Wynella losing a lot of time by going too deep into the bay. Anna was glad to have a decent heel on the boat as they ran the gauntlet along the line between Applecross Jetty and Applecross Spit. You could see the bottom on the way up to the Spit. Then disaster struck for Glen and his crew. He was still in front of Anna until the time came to put up a spinnaker and then spent the next 10 minutes trawling for prawns when the lock on the halyard popped open. See the photo's for details. Still up to then he'd been doing very well. So Anna surged through and eventually Glen got his kite up (well done Brian) and he started to give Soraya a run for their money.
The third triangle was a repeat of the first except that Wynella was a lot more careful and kept their spinnaker up and continued to hold their own. Bill and Lockie fought it out for a finish and Swiftsure Saga was just beaten by Corella by a matter of seconds. Anna took a good third and Soraya came in fourth with Glen Stanley managing to keep in touch finishing fifth in front of Karoleeya.
Results were a different bag of fish as Glen had sailed well enough to take first on handicap and took the Jim Leach Memorial with Soraya second and Anna sailing to handicap with a third. At this moment the consistency stakes have Swiftsure Saga on 43 with Corella on 45 and Anna on 46. Intuitively these are the boats that are in the battle for the top, but drops have been allotted and unless someone manages to sink the three aforementioned boats, this is how they will finish. Reviewing the Championships at this stage, we have Lockie sitting in the hot seat on 13 points with three boats all carrying 20 points behind him. Of these Andrew Bell is the most likely and unfortunately Anna may be the one to drop out of the top three, leaving Swiftsure Saga to pick up third. Early days yet ....still two races to go.
Enjoy the images
4th of March 2015 Wednesday Sailing
A game of snakes and ladders....
The fleet was bolstered by the appearance of Alma as John and Andrew took Alma onto the water with Craig to give the girl a run (although they were sailing with a horrible handicap). The usual culprits were on the water and Jetty three was quite busy as boats began to present themselves on the water. Andrew Bell had loaned Vic Court Peter Williams and Vic had one other on board as well. We suspected that he would do well if he had a chance. Andrew went out three up as did Mariner and Kate had her usual bunch of devotees and a bloke along for the sail as well. Bill had Ken on board with big John and was ready to look good as he has been sailing so well recently. Glen had a tribe on board and we were hoping that some one from the other jetty could front up, but it was not to be. So seven boats hit the water with another 6 plastic boats to get in the road.
A stinking horrible shifty easterly was in evidence, swirling around the compass and lurking in the Canning river for most of the day, all this and a light winds course four. So we took off up the river on a run to Martin/Weaver that was causing havoc to the fleets in front of us and we aimed to do one thing.....get in front with clear air. We failed as Chrysalis and The 1st Jindarra leapt (b##g#d) over the top of us and through to the front of the pack risking an OCS on the process. Lenient people those folks in the start box. Damn.. foul air and in catch up mode already. So concentrate on sailing fast and get down to Martin asap. Go through a bit and hang left, hoping that the river current was not too strong. Shoot Weaver and then down to Sampson picking up a plastic boat on the way through. Still chasing the front runners. Out of the Easterly into a couple of northerly puffs then silence as we were way out on the right ( the north ) and looking at the breeze filling in from the West. The rest of the fleet was starting to pick up a resurgent Easterly and were moving forward over on the Eastern side of the river. Then we found our legs and began to move as the westerly grew and as it grew the Easterly dropped away stranding the boats until the Westerly filled in. With only Jindarra, Chrysalis and ourselves in good pressure we were making up ground fast and hitting Robins in front was a position that we relished. But not forever.
Getting down to Dolphin East gave Chrysalis a chance to roll us as the breeze dropped off and she got in front for a while, particularly in that run down to Como and the corner back to the outer start line. But in a good breeze on the run to the outer start line we began to overhaul Tony E and we stuck our bow inside the transom of Chrysalis. Instant rights on the mark. With the rest of the fleet in close quarters as we rounded, we were happy to pick up the same breeze that got us inside Tony's transom and shot away from the fleet again. The next trick was to conquer the dreaded triangle of Foam-Print and Como. Got around in front and then the skippers heart lurched.... Thelma again. So we hardened up and lo and behold, we were looking at the finish line.
Then the wind dropped out. Much cursing and muttering was heard and words of encouragement were murmured in his ear, like" just point the thing at the line" and "it's ok, they are slowing down too." 30 meters, 20 meters ( a puff of breeze ) 10,5, and over. Our headsail trimmer almost collapsed. The mainsheet and the helm glanced at each other. Happy now skip?
The biggest surprise was the first and fastest. Fastest was enough. Well sailed Glen, there goes your handicap. A good second on handicap and to Bill on Swiftsure Saga.. a well sailed second over the line.
A game of snakes and ladders....
The fleet was bolstered by the appearance of Alma as John and Andrew took Alma onto the water with Craig to give the girl a run (although they were sailing with a horrible handicap). The usual culprits were on the water and Jetty three was quite busy as boats began to present themselves on the water. Andrew Bell had loaned Vic Court Peter Williams and Vic had one other on board as well. We suspected that he would do well if he had a chance. Andrew went out three up as did Mariner and Kate had her usual bunch of devotees and a bloke along for the sail as well. Bill had Ken on board with big John and was ready to look good as he has been sailing so well recently. Glen had a tribe on board and we were hoping that some one from the other jetty could front up, but it was not to be. So seven boats hit the water with another 6 plastic boats to get in the road.
A stinking horrible shifty easterly was in evidence, swirling around the compass and lurking in the Canning river for most of the day, all this and a light winds course four. So we took off up the river on a run to Martin/Weaver that was causing havoc to the fleets in front of us and we aimed to do one thing.....get in front with clear air. We failed as Chrysalis and The 1st Jindarra leapt (b##g#d) over the top of us and through to the front of the pack risking an OCS on the process. Lenient people those folks in the start box. Damn.. foul air and in catch up mode already. So concentrate on sailing fast and get down to Martin asap. Go through a bit and hang left, hoping that the river current was not too strong. Shoot Weaver and then down to Sampson picking up a plastic boat on the way through. Still chasing the front runners. Out of the Easterly into a couple of northerly puffs then silence as we were way out on the right ( the north ) and looking at the breeze filling in from the West. The rest of the fleet was starting to pick up a resurgent Easterly and were moving forward over on the Eastern side of the river. Then we found our legs and began to move as the westerly grew and as it grew the Easterly dropped away stranding the boats until the Westerly filled in. With only Jindarra, Chrysalis and ourselves in good pressure we were making up ground fast and hitting Robins in front was a position that we relished. But not forever.
Getting down to Dolphin East gave Chrysalis a chance to roll us as the breeze dropped off and she got in front for a while, particularly in that run down to Como and the corner back to the outer start line. But in a good breeze on the run to the outer start line we began to overhaul Tony E and we stuck our bow inside the transom of Chrysalis. Instant rights on the mark. With the rest of the fleet in close quarters as we rounded, we were happy to pick up the same breeze that got us inside Tony's transom and shot away from the fleet again. The next trick was to conquer the dreaded triangle of Foam-Print and Como. Got around in front and then the skippers heart lurched.... Thelma again. So we hardened up and lo and behold, we were looking at the finish line.
Then the wind dropped out. Much cursing and muttering was heard and words of encouragement were murmured in his ear, like" just point the thing at the line" and "it's ok, they are slowing down too." 30 meters, 20 meters ( a puff of breeze ) 10,5, and over. Our headsail trimmer almost collapsed. The mainsheet and the helm glanced at each other. Happy now skip?
The biggest surprise was the first and fastest. Fastest was enough. Well sailed Glen, there goes your handicap. A good second on handicap and to Bill on Swiftsure Saga.. a well sailed second over the line.
28th of February 2015 No Saturday Sailing but.......
The raising of Anna's mast
Most of Anna's crew past and present gathered at midday to help put the mast back on Anna. John had been fortunate and had found someone who could straighten the mast without incident for a moderate amount. So the call went out on Friday to all...get your backsides down to the jetty to put the mast on again. While we were in the process of putting the mast back on, several crew for other boats( H28's and others on the jetty) rocked up ready to go sailing. Hadn't checked their Redbooks had they. Andrew Bell was present as well and was quick to comment that John had lost his jumpers as well. Hmmmmmm! That's 5 boats now and all are sporting spinnakers that present about one and half metres below the crane at the top of the mast. Anyway I had a small camera going and the result is a flicker film of raising the mast.
The raising of Anna's mast
Most of Anna's crew past and present gathered at midday to help put the mast back on Anna. John had been fortunate and had found someone who could straighten the mast without incident for a moderate amount. So the call went out on Friday to all...get your backsides down to the jetty to put the mast on again. While we were in the process of putting the mast back on, several crew for other boats( H28's and others on the jetty) rocked up ready to go sailing. Hadn't checked their Redbooks had they. Andrew Bell was present as well and was quick to comment that John had lost his jumpers as well. Hmmmmmm! That's 5 boats now and all are sporting spinnakers that present about one and half metres below the crane at the top of the mast. Anyway I had a small camera going and the result is a flicker film of raising the mast.
25th of February 2015 Wednesday Sailing
The curse of Thelma strikes again.
A westerly was in and about 10 to 12 knots. The humidity was appalling and taking cover under the trees was a good idea once the boat was set up. Nevertheless it was a sailing day, so by two pm we were saddling up and heading out. There were five h28's and a few more plastic boats and it was going to be a plastic day no matter what. So what were we racing for ? First over the line of course.
For once they had it right and sent us off on a course two. Starting at the pin end we hit it nicely with A Bell just above us and the rest of the fleet streaming away above and behind us. Little or no back stay with the new mast set up and the power was enough to keep us up with Andrew. Lord help him if we ever get new rags. And sneak through he did, but we were second around the corner nonetheless.
The incipient butterfly was going to be a problem we realized as we took off after The First Jindarra; watching everyone else peel off and go left. So three boats on port and the rest headed over to cross the river with a good angle (only Swiftsure Saga was successful). Get to Hallmark and get rolled by a SS27 going the other way. Bugger, but it let us get out into the breeze coming up the river and we worked our way up to Armstrong lying fourth at this stage with Swiftsure, Chrysalis, and Jindarra in front. But all said and done Wynella and Soraya were both still right up there and chasing us. Down to Como, hit the corner and head for the outer start line half expecting a shortened course. No such luck.
So back up to Dolphin West and went right out to the left on our own, lifting all the way through it and it was clear that we were in clover by the time we tacked for D West picking up a knock that converted into a lift on the other side. So good in fact that we were over standing the mark and cracked the sails for speed. Then the down wind run began and the wind dropped out. 3 knots if we were lucky. Get to Como after Print and head off down to Thelma with The First Jindarra and Swiftsure Saga on our heels and only Chrysalis in front.
And then the curse struck, Chrysalis went right to go for the line the hard way, we followed the beach sailing in nothing. Behind us the First Jindarra followed us while Swiftsure Saga turned right. We went as far as we thought safe and went right on a small puff that would help us. Having a hang up on the jib sheets didn't help though and we lost a few lengths in the process. The First Jindarra went a little further than us and picked up a vagrant breeze that was coming down the freeway. A quick turn to the right and off she went and at the same time Swiftsure and Crossroads came roaring across on the (late) seabreeze that had made it's way up the river. Sods law prevailed. We went from first to fifth over the line as Chrysalis and Crossroads had taken the seabreeze express.
A crestfallen crew watched their skipper carefully to make sure he wasn't going to commit Hari- Kari (ritual suicide).
The curse of Thelma had struck again.
The curse of Thelma strikes again.
A westerly was in and about 10 to 12 knots. The humidity was appalling and taking cover under the trees was a good idea once the boat was set up. Nevertheless it was a sailing day, so by two pm we were saddling up and heading out. There were five h28's and a few more plastic boats and it was going to be a plastic day no matter what. So what were we racing for ? First over the line of course.
For once they had it right and sent us off on a course two. Starting at the pin end we hit it nicely with A Bell just above us and the rest of the fleet streaming away above and behind us. Little or no back stay with the new mast set up and the power was enough to keep us up with Andrew. Lord help him if we ever get new rags. And sneak through he did, but we were second around the corner nonetheless.
The incipient butterfly was going to be a problem we realized as we took off after The First Jindarra; watching everyone else peel off and go left. So three boats on port and the rest headed over to cross the river with a good angle (only Swiftsure Saga was successful). Get to Hallmark and get rolled by a SS27 going the other way. Bugger, but it let us get out into the breeze coming up the river and we worked our way up to Armstrong lying fourth at this stage with Swiftsure, Chrysalis, and Jindarra in front. But all said and done Wynella and Soraya were both still right up there and chasing us. Down to Como, hit the corner and head for the outer start line half expecting a shortened course. No such luck.
So back up to Dolphin West and went right out to the left on our own, lifting all the way through it and it was clear that we were in clover by the time we tacked for D West picking up a knock that converted into a lift on the other side. So good in fact that we were over standing the mark and cracked the sails for speed. Then the down wind run began and the wind dropped out. 3 knots if we were lucky. Get to Como after Print and head off down to Thelma with The First Jindarra and Swiftsure Saga on our heels and only Chrysalis in front.
And then the curse struck, Chrysalis went right to go for the line the hard way, we followed the beach sailing in nothing. Behind us the First Jindarra followed us while Swiftsure Saga turned right. We went as far as we thought safe and went right on a small puff that would help us. Having a hang up on the jib sheets didn't help though and we lost a few lengths in the process. The First Jindarra went a little further than us and picked up a vagrant breeze that was coming down the freeway. A quick turn to the right and off she went and at the same time Swiftsure and Crossroads came roaring across on the (late) seabreeze that had made it's way up the river. Sods law prevailed. We went from first to fifth over the line as Chrysalis and Crossroads had taken the seabreeze express.
A crestfallen crew watched their skipper carefully to make sure he wasn't going to commit Hari- Kari (ritual suicide).
The curse of Thelma had struck again.
21st of February 2015 Saturday Sailing ( Bend it like Anna )
Three things could be commented on today....
The fact that we managed to push Swiftsure up over the start line so that he had to return to dip the line. The fact that we had a party boat in the middle of the fleet down wind with the girls flashing everything at us, or that Anna now has a bend in the mast that will take a certain amount of straightening. But wait ..there's more. This is how the story unfolds.
Arrive down at the jetty to see that Lockie and Brian Cross had been busy and had removed their forward spreaders and jumpers to allow a spinnaker to be set from about 5 feet below the normal hoist position (i.e. the top of the mast). Apart from this I believe that they are looking for a bit more flexibility in the top of the mast allowing for more bend at the top. The purists are muttering, but given the performance of The First Jindarra (also without the top spreaders and jumpers), the experiment has to be made.
A south westerly was already in and with a slowly building breeze we set off with a number one on show. Course one was on offer and seven H28's hit the line with Swiftsure Saga trying to ride over the top of Anna and getting told off for it. Nerrima was looking good on the day and so was Wynella, only three up, but really sailing well as we worked our way up to Brickies A and B. The major battle was between Corella ( Lockie ) Swiftsure Saga ( Bill ), Carina ( Vic Court ) and Anna (John Wright). It was a case of watch Bill and Lockie sail away so the remaining pair diced with each other on the down winds and tried to get in front on the beats up to the top.
On the second down wind ( to Addison ) we found ourselves beside a party boat loaded with topless girls and blokes with a glint in their eyes. The party boat seemed content to run alongside the fleet and for several minutes the fleet (without Swiftsure) was treated to an edifying spectacle as we surged ahead. Our next battle was with a RP boat that called Dolphin West and then changed their turning mark to Outer Dolphin, taking us up further and further, putting us into a position where we were running with a very beamy kite and a pronounced heel. He finally took the mark and we were able to ease a little down to Addison, but we had lost a hundred yards or so in the process. No chance of catching Lockie now.
By now the breeze was picking up a little (15 to 18 knots) and the run up to Deepwater was a matter of getting into the bay and then aiming at Applecross Spit. A good run had us out to a starboard ley line and we passed Vic in the process, but all said and done we were still looking at Lockie if we could. Down to Addison via Dolphin East with a gybe that was successful ( well done Alex our substitute foredeck ) and then it was chase Lockie and keep Vic off our tails. Fortunately Karina ( Bob Beissel's old boat ) got in between us and Vic and slowed Vic down at Addison and the run to Thelma and thence the run to the finish line.
Our run along the freeway was successful and following the adage of keep them between you and the finish, we tacked off on the port ley line and found ourselves pointing at the finish line. Beauty ....... just keep going. 50 meters from the tacking point to take us over the line and BANG !!! our inner port shroud parted company at the top of the strut. Not the shroud itself, but the fastening had gone. So keep going or tack onto the other side to avoid losing the mast. John elected to carry on and then tack for the line. An anxious moment passed and then tack for the finish. Third over the line. Drop everything and pack up and look up at the mast. Yes there was a bend. How bad..... well see for yourself.
The results were good for Les Brooker and he took the win on handicap and the Lyn Rue Davey Memorial trophy with Anna second and Swiftsure Saga third on handicap, but first over the line with Lockie of course second on the line and fourth on handicap. Vic quite rightly blames the SS27 Karina for stopping him from catching us, but we've all been there have we not?
The mast on Anna has been removed and John is considering what needs be done. Find a couple of trees and un bend it, take it to Taskers and wait a while until they put in a new section or sleeve it. No matter what, thank goodness there is a non sailing weekend next up.
Three things could be commented on today....
The fact that we managed to push Swiftsure up over the start line so that he had to return to dip the line. The fact that we had a party boat in the middle of the fleet down wind with the girls flashing everything at us, or that Anna now has a bend in the mast that will take a certain amount of straightening. But wait ..there's more. This is how the story unfolds.
Arrive down at the jetty to see that Lockie and Brian Cross had been busy and had removed their forward spreaders and jumpers to allow a spinnaker to be set from about 5 feet below the normal hoist position (i.e. the top of the mast). Apart from this I believe that they are looking for a bit more flexibility in the top of the mast allowing for more bend at the top. The purists are muttering, but given the performance of The First Jindarra (also without the top spreaders and jumpers), the experiment has to be made.
A south westerly was already in and with a slowly building breeze we set off with a number one on show. Course one was on offer and seven H28's hit the line with Swiftsure Saga trying to ride over the top of Anna and getting told off for it. Nerrima was looking good on the day and so was Wynella, only three up, but really sailing well as we worked our way up to Brickies A and B. The major battle was between Corella ( Lockie ) Swiftsure Saga ( Bill ), Carina ( Vic Court ) and Anna (John Wright). It was a case of watch Bill and Lockie sail away so the remaining pair diced with each other on the down winds and tried to get in front on the beats up to the top.
On the second down wind ( to Addison ) we found ourselves beside a party boat loaded with topless girls and blokes with a glint in their eyes. The party boat seemed content to run alongside the fleet and for several minutes the fleet (without Swiftsure) was treated to an edifying spectacle as we surged ahead. Our next battle was with a RP boat that called Dolphin West and then changed their turning mark to Outer Dolphin, taking us up further and further, putting us into a position where we were running with a very beamy kite and a pronounced heel. He finally took the mark and we were able to ease a little down to Addison, but we had lost a hundred yards or so in the process. No chance of catching Lockie now.
By now the breeze was picking up a little (15 to 18 knots) and the run up to Deepwater was a matter of getting into the bay and then aiming at Applecross Spit. A good run had us out to a starboard ley line and we passed Vic in the process, but all said and done we were still looking at Lockie if we could. Down to Addison via Dolphin East with a gybe that was successful ( well done Alex our substitute foredeck ) and then it was chase Lockie and keep Vic off our tails. Fortunately Karina ( Bob Beissel's old boat ) got in between us and Vic and slowed Vic down at Addison and the run to Thelma and thence the run to the finish line.
Our run along the freeway was successful and following the adage of keep them between you and the finish, we tacked off on the port ley line and found ourselves pointing at the finish line. Beauty ....... just keep going. 50 meters from the tacking point to take us over the line and BANG !!! our inner port shroud parted company at the top of the strut. Not the shroud itself, but the fastening had gone. So keep going or tack onto the other side to avoid losing the mast. John elected to carry on and then tack for the line. An anxious moment passed and then tack for the finish. Third over the line. Drop everything and pack up and look up at the mast. Yes there was a bend. How bad..... well see for yourself.
The results were good for Les Brooker and he took the win on handicap and the Lyn Rue Davey Memorial trophy with Anna second and Swiftsure Saga third on handicap, but first over the line with Lockie of course second on the line and fourth on handicap. Vic quite rightly blames the SS27 Karina for stopping him from catching us, but we've all been there have we not?
The mast on Anna has been removed and John is considering what needs be done. Find a couple of trees and un bend it, take it to Taskers and wait a while until they put in a new section or sleeve it. No matter what, thank goodness there is a non sailing weekend next up.
18th of February 2015 Wednesday Sailing
The humidity is killing us during the morning and it's only when the breeze picked up around eleven that the place became tolerable. We've got 6 people on the boat and the other boats are looking hungrily at us. Pity about last week guys.......... So we lost our two guests Russell and Arthur and sailed four up as usual. Bernie Anson from the SS22 fleet was seen wandering around and nearly got co-opted onto a boat. With the breeze starting out of the west sou-west at about 12 to 15 knots we were set for a great day on the water and the 8 H28's lined up on the start line with another 5 plastic boats hanging around the edges, trying not to interfere with the 4 ton juggernauts on the water. The start line was full and the double hoot of the starting horn told us that some one was OCS, sure enough the flag was up, but no one went back..... A few shouts of "are you sure it wasn't you" echoed amongst the fleet, but still no one returned. More later.
The battle up front was between the plastics with Bill RIchards and Andrew Bell mixing in. The incipient butterfly was well away and had to be the winner for the day if he could stay far enough in front. The battle for honours amongst the H28 fleet was a different story and with Bill and Andrew battling it out, the need was for Mariner to stay in touch with Corella and keep the silver fox off our tail. Wynella was being driven by Peter Williams as Glen Stanley had another engagement and he had the boat working very well, staying in front of Kate and the girls all the way.
The second leg saw the breeze drop a little and the standout feature of the day occurred when Mariner managed to catch an errant breeze from nowhere and stayed as high as, while the rest of the fleet dropped down. All good things must end, but it was nice while it lasted. By then we were looking at Robins then the reach down to Dolphin East. Throughout the day, the breeze dropped out and we were sailing on light air for the last leg. We had established our spot and then saw Bill and Andrew engaging in a little horseplay with Andrew under Bills stern and taking him up and away from Dolphin East, rather match racing tactics than horseplay; but we were catching up nicely... just keep it up fella's, we'll catch you yet. It was not to happen and we found ourselves looking at a shortened course one and the breeze coming back in again. Consequently a nice dash for home.
Too hot to sit on the boats so a spot on Herreshoff hill was found and we settled in to a good afternoon session with a come one come all. Many thanks to Brian Cross who's esky contained copious cold beers. Consequently, we spoke to one of the starters who passed us by and queried the possible OCS in the fleet... yes he replied, it was one of the H28 boats and it was the lowest boat on the start line. Bad luck Andy... you thought you were hidden behind us. Next time.
First official H28 over the line was Swiftsure Saga, with Lockie second and Anna third. We managed a fourth. For the handicap win it was all plastic with Tony Edman getting over the line well in front.
The humidity is killing us during the morning and it's only when the breeze picked up around eleven that the place became tolerable. We've got 6 people on the boat and the other boats are looking hungrily at us. Pity about last week guys.......... So we lost our two guests Russell and Arthur and sailed four up as usual. Bernie Anson from the SS22 fleet was seen wandering around and nearly got co-opted onto a boat. With the breeze starting out of the west sou-west at about 12 to 15 knots we were set for a great day on the water and the 8 H28's lined up on the start line with another 5 plastic boats hanging around the edges, trying not to interfere with the 4 ton juggernauts on the water. The start line was full and the double hoot of the starting horn told us that some one was OCS, sure enough the flag was up, but no one went back..... A few shouts of "are you sure it wasn't you" echoed amongst the fleet, but still no one returned. More later.
The battle up front was between the plastics with Bill RIchards and Andrew Bell mixing in. The incipient butterfly was well away and had to be the winner for the day if he could stay far enough in front. The battle for honours amongst the H28 fleet was a different story and with Bill and Andrew battling it out, the need was for Mariner to stay in touch with Corella and keep the silver fox off our tail. Wynella was being driven by Peter Williams as Glen Stanley had another engagement and he had the boat working very well, staying in front of Kate and the girls all the way.
The second leg saw the breeze drop a little and the standout feature of the day occurred when Mariner managed to catch an errant breeze from nowhere and stayed as high as, while the rest of the fleet dropped down. All good things must end, but it was nice while it lasted. By then we were looking at Robins then the reach down to Dolphin East. Throughout the day, the breeze dropped out and we were sailing on light air for the last leg. We had established our spot and then saw Bill and Andrew engaging in a little horseplay with Andrew under Bills stern and taking him up and away from Dolphin East, rather match racing tactics than horseplay; but we were catching up nicely... just keep it up fella's, we'll catch you yet. It was not to happen and we found ourselves looking at a shortened course one and the breeze coming back in again. Consequently a nice dash for home.
Too hot to sit on the boats so a spot on Herreshoff hill was found and we settled in to a good afternoon session with a come one come all. Many thanks to Brian Cross who's esky contained copious cold beers. Consequently, we spoke to one of the starters who passed us by and queried the possible OCS in the fleet... yes he replied, it was one of the H28 boats and it was the lowest boat on the start line. Bad luck Andy... you thought you were hidden behind us. Next time.
First official H28 over the line was Swiftsure Saga, with Lockie second and Anna third. We managed a fourth. For the handicap win it was all plastic with Tony Edman getting over the line well in front.
14th of February 2015 5th Championship round.
A perfect day on the water with temperatures in the low 20's, a south westerly of 17 to 20 + knots and a full crew on board John Wrights boat Anna. Not only that, but a great roll up from the H28's with 9 boats on the water. The roll call included: Swiftsure Saga, The First Jindarra, Anna, Carina, Corella, Karoleeya, Wynella, Nerrima and Soraya.
A standard course one was on offer and the images below are from the start line as we took off in a rising breeze. It was swiftly determined that the pin was favoured and only the brave went right after the start as the dig into Heathcote was the one that would give you the best angle for the tack out and then back into the bay for the run to Applecross Spit.
Already the battle was hotting up, as current contenders Swiftsure Saga and the First Jindarra were neck to neck with TFJ sailing over the top of Vic Court who had started well and Bill in SsS managing to get above everyone and continued to gain height advantage as he went toward Heathcote. ( Have a look at his new sails and the difference between his settings and TFJ's) They are both tape drive's by the way.
The best of the rest (ourselves included) started to work our way up the hill and it was noticeable that the breeze was swinging up to 15 degrees with a lot of south on offer. Picking this oscillation became vital as we overtook one or two boats up toward Brickies, but only on the lifts and knocks as we approached Brickies did we see whether we had made the ley line call. Not completely this time, but a quick couple of tacks had us at the mark and around we went with Soraya just in front of us and chasing Vic who had managed to get in front of us by going further into the left on the way up. Soraya had a slow spinnaker hoist and we slipped past her with Vic electing not to throw up a kite on the first run down. Eventually we passed her and found ourselves looking at Lockie as our next to get to. At this stage SsS and TFJ were already streets ahead and were engaged in their own chase.
The second leg was familiar and even then we missed the port ley line and had to put in those two quick tacks, finding ourselves in the company of a couple of Flying 15's who were almost planing as they joined us in the reach across Brickies A and B. A gybe and a good hoist had us on the long run down to Addison. It was noticed that Vic put up a kite this time and achieved a glorious wineglass but our mainsheet man was slow in letting me know and no photo was taken. Bill on Swiftsure Saga threw up a kite as well, though why they didn't on the first run down hill I've no idea. No starboard tackers to disturb us, but the oscillation in the breeze had the kite varying from dead behind us, to on our quarter and building as it did so. Best speed recorded was 8 knots on the GPS. Not bad for a displacement hull.
The third leg was the kite run from Deepwater to Dolphin East and the gybe at the mark, then down to Addison and a reach to Thelma. All were achieved without trouble and we increased our lead over the boats behind us. Lockie was still sailing well and managed to get away a little.
So to the line in company with a MB24 and a little clinker built dinghy (out board propelled) that was being driven by a fellow with his family on board. He insisted in sitting on the sailing line of the MB24 and despite polite requests to go down a little and give the MB24 room to pass him he sat there obdurately refusing to move. Silly man.
Fourth over the line for us and 3rd on consistency for Anna. For the win .... Over the line, the First Jindarra helmed by Andrew Bell and Bill Richard's Swiftsure Saga was second David Locke was third. The reverse for the championship with Bill taking first and Andrew second with Phil Lammonby fourth and David Locke fifth.
At this stage, Lockie holds the lead in the championship with three boats The First Jindarra, Swiftsure Saga and Anna locked in second place.
When the drops come into play it will be a different picture.
Incidentally: 1) Georgina is up on the slips and there appears to be some hard work going on at present. Caulking, antifouling, work on the cabin and bless me, she's had a new tank of petrol and Stuart Georgina Turner is responding to it. 2 ) Mark Walters who owns Koomela, currently in residence at The Cruising Yacht Club of Rockingham, is looking at coming up to SoPYC and will be applying for membership if all goes well. Good luck to him in his move up to SoPYC.
A perfect day on the water with temperatures in the low 20's, a south westerly of 17 to 20 + knots and a full crew on board John Wrights boat Anna. Not only that, but a great roll up from the H28's with 9 boats on the water. The roll call included: Swiftsure Saga, The First Jindarra, Anna, Carina, Corella, Karoleeya, Wynella, Nerrima and Soraya.
A standard course one was on offer and the images below are from the start line as we took off in a rising breeze. It was swiftly determined that the pin was favoured and only the brave went right after the start as the dig into Heathcote was the one that would give you the best angle for the tack out and then back into the bay for the run to Applecross Spit.
Already the battle was hotting up, as current contenders Swiftsure Saga and the First Jindarra were neck to neck with TFJ sailing over the top of Vic Court who had started well and Bill in SsS managing to get above everyone and continued to gain height advantage as he went toward Heathcote. ( Have a look at his new sails and the difference between his settings and TFJ's) They are both tape drive's by the way.
The best of the rest (ourselves included) started to work our way up the hill and it was noticeable that the breeze was swinging up to 15 degrees with a lot of south on offer. Picking this oscillation became vital as we overtook one or two boats up toward Brickies, but only on the lifts and knocks as we approached Brickies did we see whether we had made the ley line call. Not completely this time, but a quick couple of tacks had us at the mark and around we went with Soraya just in front of us and chasing Vic who had managed to get in front of us by going further into the left on the way up. Soraya had a slow spinnaker hoist and we slipped past her with Vic electing not to throw up a kite on the first run down. Eventually we passed her and found ourselves looking at Lockie as our next to get to. At this stage SsS and TFJ were already streets ahead and were engaged in their own chase.
The second leg was familiar and even then we missed the port ley line and had to put in those two quick tacks, finding ourselves in the company of a couple of Flying 15's who were almost planing as they joined us in the reach across Brickies A and B. A gybe and a good hoist had us on the long run down to Addison. It was noticed that Vic put up a kite this time and achieved a glorious wineglass but our mainsheet man was slow in letting me know and no photo was taken. Bill on Swiftsure Saga threw up a kite as well, though why they didn't on the first run down hill I've no idea. No starboard tackers to disturb us, but the oscillation in the breeze had the kite varying from dead behind us, to on our quarter and building as it did so. Best speed recorded was 8 knots on the GPS. Not bad for a displacement hull.
The third leg was the kite run from Deepwater to Dolphin East and the gybe at the mark, then down to Addison and a reach to Thelma. All were achieved without trouble and we increased our lead over the boats behind us. Lockie was still sailing well and managed to get away a little.
So to the line in company with a MB24 and a little clinker built dinghy (out board propelled) that was being driven by a fellow with his family on board. He insisted in sitting on the sailing line of the MB24 and despite polite requests to go down a little and give the MB24 room to pass him he sat there obdurately refusing to move. Silly man.
Fourth over the line for us and 3rd on consistency for Anna. For the win .... Over the line, the First Jindarra helmed by Andrew Bell and Bill Richard's Swiftsure Saga was second David Locke was third. The reverse for the championship with Bill taking first and Andrew second with Phil Lammonby fourth and David Locke fifth.
At this stage, Lockie holds the lead in the championship with three boats The First Jindarra, Swiftsure Saga and Anna locked in second place.
When the drops come into play it will be a different picture.
Incidentally: 1) Georgina is up on the slips and there appears to be some hard work going on at present. Caulking, antifouling, work on the cabin and bless me, she's had a new tank of petrol and Stuart Georgina Turner is responding to it. 2 ) Mark Walters who owns Koomela, currently in residence at The Cruising Yacht Club of Rockingham, is looking at coming up to SoPYC and will be applying for membership if all goes well. Good luck to him in his move up to SoPYC.
11th of February 2015
A typical late summers afternoon with the wind in the west and attempting to go into the south, about 13 to 18 knots and the odd shift, but pretty consistent. Our crew was fairly light on but given the conditions we strapped on the number one and went out two up.
With Lockie and Glen still in Hobart's clutches and Vic nowhere to be found, we put together a fleet of 5 boats and they were the usual bunch of desperadoes. A course one was on offer and without the challenge of Martin-Weaver to put a little excitement into the fleet, we started North ward on a reach of sorts. Picking the right time to be on the start line was the go and there was a fair amount of jockeying on the line. This left us as third around Sampson and from then on, it was the matter of making the right choices. If we had tossed back on to port after a hundred yards to set ourselves up in the middle of the river we may have kept up with the fleet but no, we went right in to King and then started to go out to the center again. So far so good, but because we weren't covering the lead boats they started to pull away and Kate sailed well to get up the middle of the river ahead of the RP fleets and then came back on a reasonable lift that put her in with a chance to stay in the hunt.
Meanwhile we went right out and then had to get back with every boat and it's fleas getting past us as we knocked and knocked on the way into Applecross. Dead motherless last again apart from plastic boats and with the wind in the west and a course one, it was a soldiers course. Up ahead the battle between Bill Richards and Andrew Bell was intensifying and there was a meeting with both boats and a Spacy 27. I gather there was a port - starboard discussion and one boat won and the others lost, but Bill had ratcheted down a notch and Andrew got into the lead and stayed there. Kate was doing fine at this stage and a comfortable third and we had decided to take on John Wright on the small triangle of Sampson, Foam, Print. He went left, we went up the river. By the time we had reached Foam, we had 30 meters on him and rounded comfortably in front.
The situation stayed pretty much the same until we hit Thelma when the skipper decided to go right and John elected to go down the freeway. John's decision was correct and we should have kept ourselves between him and the finish line. Last again! Much to Andrew's surprise he got the first and fastest and Kate got second. Looking at the results Kate had missed by 4 seconds and the wide rounding of Print by Kate may have cost her that and more. A pity. Still as we proved no one is perfect. A good handicap improver!
A typical late summers afternoon with the wind in the west and attempting to go into the south, about 13 to 18 knots and the odd shift, but pretty consistent. Our crew was fairly light on but given the conditions we strapped on the number one and went out two up.
With Lockie and Glen still in Hobart's clutches and Vic nowhere to be found, we put together a fleet of 5 boats and they were the usual bunch of desperadoes. A course one was on offer and without the challenge of Martin-Weaver to put a little excitement into the fleet, we started North ward on a reach of sorts. Picking the right time to be on the start line was the go and there was a fair amount of jockeying on the line. This left us as third around Sampson and from then on, it was the matter of making the right choices. If we had tossed back on to port after a hundred yards to set ourselves up in the middle of the river we may have kept up with the fleet but no, we went right in to King and then started to go out to the center again. So far so good, but because we weren't covering the lead boats they started to pull away and Kate sailed well to get up the middle of the river ahead of the RP fleets and then came back on a reasonable lift that put her in with a chance to stay in the hunt.
Meanwhile we went right out and then had to get back with every boat and it's fleas getting past us as we knocked and knocked on the way into Applecross. Dead motherless last again apart from plastic boats and with the wind in the west and a course one, it was a soldiers course. Up ahead the battle between Bill Richards and Andrew Bell was intensifying and there was a meeting with both boats and a Spacy 27. I gather there was a port - starboard discussion and one boat won and the others lost, but Bill had ratcheted down a notch and Andrew got into the lead and stayed there. Kate was doing fine at this stage and a comfortable third and we had decided to take on John Wright on the small triangle of Sampson, Foam, Print. He went left, we went up the river. By the time we had reached Foam, we had 30 meters on him and rounded comfortably in front.
The situation stayed pretty much the same until we hit Thelma when the skipper decided to go right and John elected to go down the freeway. John's decision was correct and we should have kept ourselves between him and the finish line. Last again! Much to Andrew's surprise he got the first and fastest and Kate got second. Looking at the results Kate had missed by 4 seconds and the wide rounding of Print by Kate may have cost her that and more. A pity. Still as we proved no one is perfect. A good handicap improver!
4th of February 2015
A wonderful day on the water with a reasonable breeze out of the west (8 to 13 knots) and a puzzling choice of course for C fleet. One would expect a course two on a westerly, but no, they thought it through and sent us on a course one. May be the wind was supposed to swing into the south a bit more? Oh and no trip up to Martin/Weaver.
A goodly number of H28's made it onto the water with Kate and two girls, Andrew and a cast of thousands, Georgina with Tony and Oscar on board slipped out onto the water with the intent of following the fleet around the track and good on them. Bill took off with his new sails glowing in the afternoon sun and before long he was in front again. Hang it all..is it just new sails or is he hitting his straps at long last. Rita and her friend from the islands borrowed Lockies Corella and were seen doing a fine job on the water. Then there was a bunch of Tupperware boats and finally Brian Cross and a full crew took off to enjoy the day as well and observed the following.
Kate hasn't stopped talking yet, only enough time was spared to gently disengage themselves from one of the plastic boats ( pre race) and carry on chatting. Andrew Bell knows all the rules in racing, just forgot the basic mechanics of throwing your boom over to starboard in close company will eventually foul the opposing boats gear and cause a problem. Brian Cross found out how stubborn Royal Perth sailors can be, taking us up on the way to Como... no reason at all and eventually foiled his own rounding of the mark. We were prepared to duck him and let him go, but he just kept on taking us up.....! Plastic boats were going to win today no matter where the wooden boats finished (I,2,3 across the line) and we have to give them their day on the podium. Just have a chat to the handicapper!
In another matter, half the fleet are over in Hobart for the Wooden Boat Regatta and the club still has us gazetted to sail our championships this weekend. I believe that something has been done, but it hasn't come though as yet.
A wonderful day on the water with a reasonable breeze out of the west (8 to 13 knots) and a puzzling choice of course for C fleet. One would expect a course two on a westerly, but no, they thought it through and sent us on a course one. May be the wind was supposed to swing into the south a bit more? Oh and no trip up to Martin/Weaver.
A goodly number of H28's made it onto the water with Kate and two girls, Andrew and a cast of thousands, Georgina with Tony and Oscar on board slipped out onto the water with the intent of following the fleet around the track and good on them. Bill took off with his new sails glowing in the afternoon sun and before long he was in front again. Hang it all..is it just new sails or is he hitting his straps at long last. Rita and her friend from the islands borrowed Lockies Corella and were seen doing a fine job on the water. Then there was a bunch of Tupperware boats and finally Brian Cross and a full crew took off to enjoy the day as well and observed the following.
Kate hasn't stopped talking yet, only enough time was spared to gently disengage themselves from one of the plastic boats ( pre race) and carry on chatting. Andrew Bell knows all the rules in racing, just forgot the basic mechanics of throwing your boom over to starboard in close company will eventually foul the opposing boats gear and cause a problem. Brian Cross found out how stubborn Royal Perth sailors can be, taking us up on the way to Como... no reason at all and eventually foiled his own rounding of the mark. We were prepared to duck him and let him go, but he just kept on taking us up.....! Plastic boats were going to win today no matter where the wooden boats finished (I,2,3 across the line) and we have to give them their day on the podium. Just have a chat to the handicapper!
In another matter, half the fleet are over in Hobart for the Wooden Boat Regatta and the club still has us gazetted to sail our championships this weekend. I believe that something has been done, but it hasn't come though as yet.
24th of Jan 2015 The Frank Sampson Trophy.
The choice of head sails could have been better, as we ploughed our way through a 20 to 25 knot south westerly with a number one up, hoping that the down winds would make it a bit easier for us and more speed. Mind you, opening the leech up by moving the cars back one could have relieved the sideways pressure on the boat.
With a disappointing turnout of boats for the rest of the fleet, the H28's turned out in good numbers on this long weekend.
A course 4 for Div one was the course for all and it was a handicap start with Bill Richards on Swiftsure Saga getting away very well on handicap and again was never headed as he shot around the course in very good time. Phil Lammonby took the helm on Soraya and proved his ability on the old girl to stay ahead of the fleet. John Wright on Anna started a minute behind us and very nearly rocked our roll on Brian Cross' Mariner as we fought to get the boat tuned up to the very heavy breeze. We should have put the number two up in retrospect, but struggle on we did and some of the gusts had us pushing 8.2 knots down wind without surfing. Les Brooker and Nerrima did a fine job keeping up with the fleet as did Glen Stanley and his Wynella. Both had full crews and all were worked hard.
My hat goes off to Vic Court though. Three up as we were, Carina was pushing for the lead and wisely had a smaller headsail up. As the fleet was reaching Brickies for the first time, we noticed a sports boat broaching. Not uncommon up this end of the river so we kept and eye on him until he got out of our way and continued on. Vic, ahead of us at this stage saw a person in the water and went into MOB mode. A quick gybe and back to the person and she was hauled out of the water tout suite as the first and best catch of the day. Fairly scared and wringing wet, the lass admitted that this was her second swim of the day (and she still wasn't wearing a PFD). Vic was quite happy to keep her on the boat, but the other's on the boat said that he would have to "throw her back" as you know you can't finish the race with more crew than you started with. So off to the safety boat they went and dropped her off and then reverted to race mode. Finishing last in the H28's Vic did ask for redress but as yet I've not heard the results.
Well sailed Vic, Bruce and Andrew.
To the second moment of the day, again around Brickies, Anna was pinching hard to make Brickies A and was giving Mariner, behind her, hell.
So Mariner tacked off and had to duck Nerrima who was coming through on port (not worthwhile arguing port /starboard at that moment). We then completed our tack back onto port, nearly collecting Nerrima in the process, to see Anna on the other side of Brickies A and in strife with other boats coming at her on starboard. Dash down to Brickies B and crash gybe and slowly overhaul Nerrima who had decided not to pole out and take the advantage of the sail on the starboard side. By the time we were set and away, Anna was finally making her way around Brickies A and B and though she got close, never passed us again.
Well done Bill Richards . First in the H28 fleet, second was Phil Lammonby and third Brian Cross.
A small note of concern and sorry to see it happen. Fortunately no one was seriously injured, but the sight of a mast sticking out of the water and the spinnaker ragging at the end, brings to mind Vic Court's infamous submariner experience a few years ago. A club member from SoPYC managed to get his boat under the waves big time and I hope that they can get it up before the traditional Australia Day rush of inexperienced boats commences on Monday.
The choice of head sails could have been better, as we ploughed our way through a 20 to 25 knot south westerly with a number one up, hoping that the down winds would make it a bit easier for us and more speed. Mind you, opening the leech up by moving the cars back one could have relieved the sideways pressure on the boat.
With a disappointing turnout of boats for the rest of the fleet, the H28's turned out in good numbers on this long weekend.
A course 4 for Div one was the course for all and it was a handicap start with Bill Richards on Swiftsure Saga getting away very well on handicap and again was never headed as he shot around the course in very good time. Phil Lammonby took the helm on Soraya and proved his ability on the old girl to stay ahead of the fleet. John Wright on Anna started a minute behind us and very nearly rocked our roll on Brian Cross' Mariner as we fought to get the boat tuned up to the very heavy breeze. We should have put the number two up in retrospect, but struggle on we did and some of the gusts had us pushing 8.2 knots down wind without surfing. Les Brooker and Nerrima did a fine job keeping up with the fleet as did Glen Stanley and his Wynella. Both had full crews and all were worked hard.
My hat goes off to Vic Court though. Three up as we were, Carina was pushing for the lead and wisely had a smaller headsail up. As the fleet was reaching Brickies for the first time, we noticed a sports boat broaching. Not uncommon up this end of the river so we kept and eye on him until he got out of our way and continued on. Vic, ahead of us at this stage saw a person in the water and went into MOB mode. A quick gybe and back to the person and she was hauled out of the water tout suite as the first and best catch of the day. Fairly scared and wringing wet, the lass admitted that this was her second swim of the day (and she still wasn't wearing a PFD). Vic was quite happy to keep her on the boat, but the other's on the boat said that he would have to "throw her back" as you know you can't finish the race with more crew than you started with. So off to the safety boat they went and dropped her off and then reverted to race mode. Finishing last in the H28's Vic did ask for redress but as yet I've not heard the results.
Well sailed Vic, Bruce and Andrew.
To the second moment of the day, again around Brickies, Anna was pinching hard to make Brickies A and was giving Mariner, behind her, hell.
So Mariner tacked off and had to duck Nerrima who was coming through on port (not worthwhile arguing port /starboard at that moment). We then completed our tack back onto port, nearly collecting Nerrima in the process, to see Anna on the other side of Brickies A and in strife with other boats coming at her on starboard. Dash down to Brickies B and crash gybe and slowly overhaul Nerrima who had decided not to pole out and take the advantage of the sail on the starboard side. By the time we were set and away, Anna was finally making her way around Brickies A and B and though she got close, never passed us again.
Well done Bill Richards . First in the H28 fleet, second was Phil Lammonby and third Brian Cross.
A small note of concern and sorry to see it happen. Fortunately no one was seriously injured, but the sight of a mast sticking out of the water and the spinnaker ragging at the end, brings to mind Vic Court's infamous submariner experience a few years ago. A club member from SoPYC managed to get his boat under the waves big time and I hope that they can get it up before the traditional Australia Day rush of inexperienced boats commences on Monday.
20th of Jan 2015
It could have been a day for heroes on Wednesday. If we had thought about the start a little more that is. Can you imagine that we got ourselves set up and were tacking to go for the line and realized that a) the breeze had dropped and that b) we were way too far away from the line. A raucous cry from Andy Bell, who happened to be driving the change over boat in the match racing regatta informed us that our plight had not gone unnoticed and we were at least thirty seconds off the line when the gun went. Unspectacular to say the least. All this and a shortened course one to race on.
Catch up mode kicked in and by Sampson we had caught 4 boats and a little care (and luck) got us up into third spot behind Anna where we jousted with John Wright and only a slick getaway by John on the rounding of Print let him get away and we then had to chase him again to try to get past him. Meanwhile Bill Richards on Swiftsure Saga just rocketed away. New sails and a quick hull does it every time. So first over the line to Bill Richards, second to John Wright and Mariner took a third and rued the day we started 30 seconds behind the fleet. Another "couldhavebeen". On handicap, Glen Stanley did well to take second to Peter Lewis's Crossroad (a 22) and Bill Richards took third. We split 4th with Anna only 4 seconds off Bills time. Vic Court took fifth over the line and seventh on handicap.
A sorry story was related to me by an un named past commodore who was on the foredeck of another H28 for the day, in that the helm had decided to go in a different direction to one that would have been desired to go to win. As I said a sorry story. No sign of Karoleeya or Corella today.
It could have been a day for heroes on Wednesday. If we had thought about the start a little more that is. Can you imagine that we got ourselves set up and were tacking to go for the line and realized that a) the breeze had dropped and that b) we were way too far away from the line. A raucous cry from Andy Bell, who happened to be driving the change over boat in the match racing regatta informed us that our plight had not gone unnoticed and we were at least thirty seconds off the line when the gun went. Unspectacular to say the least. All this and a shortened course one to race on.
Catch up mode kicked in and by Sampson we had caught 4 boats and a little care (and luck) got us up into third spot behind Anna where we jousted with John Wright and only a slick getaway by John on the rounding of Print let him get away and we then had to chase him again to try to get past him. Meanwhile Bill Richards on Swiftsure Saga just rocketed away. New sails and a quick hull does it every time. So first over the line to Bill Richards, second to John Wright and Mariner took a third and rued the day we started 30 seconds behind the fleet. Another "couldhavebeen". On handicap, Glen Stanley did well to take second to Peter Lewis's Crossroad (a 22) and Bill Richards took third. We split 4th with Anna only 4 seconds off Bills time. Vic Court took fifth over the line and seventh on handicap.
A sorry story was related to me by an un named past commodore who was on the foredeck of another H28 for the day, in that the helm had decided to go in a different direction to one that would have been desired to go to win. As I said a sorry story. No sign of Karoleeya or Corella today.
17th of Jan 2015
A thoroughly absorbing day with a course two on offer. The run included a trip up to Hallmark and Armstrong and several trips down the river under kite, fortunately none so mind numbing as the run from Brickies to Addison. As a matter of record, David Locke is fast becoming unbeatable as he again snaffled first, this time two and an half minutes ahead of Vic Court who put in a great effort, but Corella just disappeared into the distance. Bill RIchards was next, another minute and a bit after Vic and the rest of the fleet including us, straggled along afterwards. Disappointing really, as it was a lovely day to go sailing and the river was (again) fairly quiet. No matter, we have the rescheduled Frank Sampson race next weekend and as JW has enough people to man a boat for a jib and main, I'll go out with Brian Cross and Mariner to get another boat on the water.
A thoroughly absorbing day with a course two on offer. The run included a trip up to Hallmark and Armstrong and several trips down the river under kite, fortunately none so mind numbing as the run from Brickies to Addison. As a matter of record, David Locke is fast becoming unbeatable as he again snaffled first, this time two and an half minutes ahead of Vic Court who put in a great effort, but Corella just disappeared into the distance. Bill RIchards was next, another minute and a bit after Vic and the rest of the fleet including us, straggled along afterwards. Disappointing really, as it was a lovely day to go sailing and the river was (again) fairly quiet. No matter, we have the rescheduled Frank Sampson race next weekend and as JW has enough people to man a boat for a jib and main, I'll go out with Brian Cross and Mariner to get another boat on the water.
14th of Jan 2015
Ok, I was challenged to write this in an interesting way. After the Laser Nationals it should be easy.
On the water in 15 knots, the big heady up and anticipation on the face of the skipper. Should have been good. I saw a number two go up for Div one and assumed that it would be the course for the day. Well the breeze was out of the West and was what I'd predicted. But I'm not the starter.....:-)
Went sailing and got a good start, a bit of boisterous jousting with David Locke at Sampson and then realized when the fleet tossed to go left that we were not in the right place and probably didn't have the right course. Damn. Course three.. who would have thought it possible and with a Westerly on offer. So we went on our merry way. Last of the H28 fleet. So the answer was .. it's a good day to bring our handicap down a little and we decided to see how many boats we could catch.
By the end of the day we had taken back 2 plastics and 2 h28's and were getting encouraging close to Tony Edman on Chrysalis when the breeze, never that strong, decided to drop out further. So we held our own and once again, cursed our luck and our ability to look up at the appropriate time prior to the start. Well sailed Bill RIchards to get first over the line with Andy Bell close behind. John Wright sailed very well two up to get third and would have done better possibly if he'd had a third person. On handicap, Andy Bell took the cake with Bill Richards in third and Glen Stanley taking fourth. ( yes I know ... a SS22 took second )
Ok, I was challenged to write this in an interesting way. After the Laser Nationals it should be easy.
On the water in 15 knots, the big heady up and anticipation on the face of the skipper. Should have been good. I saw a number two go up for Div one and assumed that it would be the course for the day. Well the breeze was out of the West and was what I'd predicted. But I'm not the starter.....:-)
Went sailing and got a good start, a bit of boisterous jousting with David Locke at Sampson and then realized when the fleet tossed to go left that we were not in the right place and probably didn't have the right course. Damn. Course three.. who would have thought it possible and with a Westerly on offer. So we went on our merry way. Last of the H28 fleet. So the answer was .. it's a good day to bring our handicap down a little and we decided to see how many boats we could catch.
By the end of the day we had taken back 2 plastics and 2 h28's and were getting encouraging close to Tony Edman on Chrysalis when the breeze, never that strong, decided to drop out further. So we held our own and once again, cursed our luck and our ability to look up at the appropriate time prior to the start. Well sailed Bill RIchards to get first over the line with Andy Bell close behind. John Wright sailed very well two up to get third and would have done better possibly if he'd had a third person. On handicap, Andy Bell took the cake with Bill Richards in third and Glen Stanley taking fourth. ( yes I know ... a SS22 took second )
10th of Jan 2015
Damn and blast. Missed the first round of the championships after Christmas. However the results say it all.
Corella took the race and left all in his tracks. Vic Court RAF'd and that's a story I'll have to explore. Bill Richards didn't fly a kite and still came second and really pushed Lockie apparently. Andy Bell was defending his very strong start and is now managing to show some enthusiasm with his moon boot covering everything in his ankle. I've seen the bolts they put in by the way, big! All he got was a third. Anna took fourth and still manages to hold second spot on the championship, but in consistency Anna is naggingly close to Corella and I'm sure that Swiftsure Saga could claim the same to Anna. This is now the period when the more gentle breezes blow. Wait and see.
Damn and blast. Missed the first round of the championships after Christmas. However the results say it all.
Corella took the race and left all in his tracks. Vic Court RAF'd and that's a story I'll have to explore. Bill Richards didn't fly a kite and still came second and really pushed Lockie apparently. Andy Bell was defending his very strong start and is now managing to show some enthusiasm with his moon boot covering everything in his ankle. I've seen the bolts they put in by the way, big! All he got was a third. Anna took fourth and still manages to hold second spot on the championship, but in consistency Anna is naggingly close to Corella and I'm sure that Swiftsure Saga could claim the same to Anna. This is now the period when the more gentle breezes blow. Wait and see.