On the water, in the bar.
The stories of the H28's
of South of Perth Yacht club
in 2024
The stories of the H28's
of South of Perth Yacht club
in 2024
Wednesday Sailing the 24th of April.
A decent easterly &
Still cant get away from Corella.
Its a hard day when despite the best efforts of the skipper to slip the boat and give her a clean bum, get a good start, lead all the way to Sampson and prepare for the run down to Hall Mark under a pole, successfully defend at the mark after we had been carted up at Nedland's Spit necessitating a hurried gybe of the main and managed to get under Corella's transom to take the inside at the mark and get all the way to Armstrong.
Four H28's led off today, with Anna and Swiftsure Saga as no goes. Still it was a decent Easterly and although we had the usual fluctuations it was glorious flat water sailing. Wynella had taken a visitor (Guy) on board and had Andy back from his travails. He reckons he's clear and we all hope so. Les and his team came out to join us on Nerrima and told us that he hadn't found the mud prestart, but he was suspiciously still for a while there. We had Corella of course and the question remains whether they had a number one or a two up, but what ever happened, we had a number two on.
As mentioned a good start and a bit of luck with the breeze coming along to help us just at the right time. We managed to keep our noses in front all the way down to Armstrong, went a bit further out into the south than Corella and then headed down to Como. We managed to get past Corella as he came across to improve his chances and then came the battle for Como. Just outsailed us, scalloped his way up and began to draft us and eventually we were looking at his transom. From there on, it was chase Lockie all the way around the small triangle of Sampson, Dolphin East (another pole) and back up the breeze to leave Print and Como to our starboard side then make our way across to Thelma.
But it wasn't all over then as a bit of good trimming and some luck with the breeze changes we found ourselves challenging at Thelma. Corella slipped through, but the dash to the line had the skipper whooping with joy. He was having fun. Lockie got there 5 seconds in front, but considering that we had been sailing cheek by jowl for the best part of 2 hours, it was as good a result as could be asked for.... well over the line first would have been better.
Over the line: Corella, Mariner and Nerrima
On handicap: Nerrima, Wynella and Mariner
The wrong results were read out at 1730 with Wynella named as first and it was only once the on line version had been seen, that the question was asked. A hasty recount of the results was offered and some compensation to the correct winner.
It has to be noted that Nerrima is not appearing in the Wednesday progressive racing results and I hope that someone can rectify this.
Saturday Sailing and two boats took to the water with Nerrima taking the win over Aloha.
Not many photos today. I was busy on the main.
A decent easterly &
Still cant get away from Corella.
Its a hard day when despite the best efforts of the skipper to slip the boat and give her a clean bum, get a good start, lead all the way to Sampson and prepare for the run down to Hall Mark under a pole, successfully defend at the mark after we had been carted up at Nedland's Spit necessitating a hurried gybe of the main and managed to get under Corella's transom to take the inside at the mark and get all the way to Armstrong.
Four H28's led off today, with Anna and Swiftsure Saga as no goes. Still it was a decent Easterly and although we had the usual fluctuations it was glorious flat water sailing. Wynella had taken a visitor (Guy) on board and had Andy back from his travails. He reckons he's clear and we all hope so. Les and his team came out to join us on Nerrima and told us that he hadn't found the mud prestart, but he was suspiciously still for a while there. We had Corella of course and the question remains whether they had a number one or a two up, but what ever happened, we had a number two on.
As mentioned a good start and a bit of luck with the breeze coming along to help us just at the right time. We managed to keep our noses in front all the way down to Armstrong, went a bit further out into the south than Corella and then headed down to Como. We managed to get past Corella as he came across to improve his chances and then came the battle for Como. Just outsailed us, scalloped his way up and began to draft us and eventually we were looking at his transom. From there on, it was chase Lockie all the way around the small triangle of Sampson, Dolphin East (another pole) and back up the breeze to leave Print and Como to our starboard side then make our way across to Thelma.
But it wasn't all over then as a bit of good trimming and some luck with the breeze changes we found ourselves challenging at Thelma. Corella slipped through, but the dash to the line had the skipper whooping with joy. He was having fun. Lockie got there 5 seconds in front, but considering that we had been sailing cheek by jowl for the best part of 2 hours, it was as good a result as could be asked for.... well over the line first would have been better.
Over the line: Corella, Mariner and Nerrima
On handicap: Nerrima, Wynella and Mariner
The wrong results were read out at 1730 with Wynella named as first and it was only once the on line version had been seen, that the question was asked. A hasty recount of the results was offered and some compensation to the correct winner.
It has to be noted that Nerrima is not appearing in the Wednesday progressive racing results and I hope that someone can rectify this.
Saturday Sailing and two boats took to the water with Nerrima taking the win over Aloha.
Not many photos today. I was busy on the main.
Wednesday Sailing the 10th of April
Salt get in the main sheets &
Another blasted Sou Easter.
Five of the best rocked up to the line today.
Ernie had joined us as no one wanted to sail on Wynella today. Injured, funerals, out of contact, (I’ve heard them all) We had the same problem on Mariner with Ron over in Rotto (still); Phil in Broken Hill and Liz with Covid related friends.
So Brian got to helm, Ernie took the main and Geoff took a break on the foredeck. A simple pleasure as we lined up on the start line and began the complicated dance known as pre start. Too early was the call. A suggestion for a gybe was put forward and agreed on. That left us hanging on our sails for the last few seconds and fortunately the starters agreed we weren’t too far over at the start. (Though in the after sail discussion, it was by how much we were over as the boat beside us thought they were over as well)
Naa… remember that start a few weeks ago.. they were almost an half boat length ahead of us at the line. The course one was a bit of surprise as we were expecting a course two or similar for a sou-easter.
Mariner took the lead and remembering the conversation from the last attempt on a similar run, we headed up to Martin and further. Fortunately. Past the highest mooring and then tack in time to make the mark and run away down the river to Sampson. Running the freeway is always a challenge and calling the pressure is the major issue. Swiftsure Saga was doing very well and got up to our transom, but no way past was offered and we turned in unison toward the next mark. Print.
Riding the freeway special, we poled out for the first and last time and worked hard to keep Swiftsure Saga on our port transom being mindful that Corella and the rest of the fleet would jump us at the first chance. Gybe and head for Addison with Ernie groaning on the main sheet. The freshwater rinsing of the mainsheet worked, but the last two metres around the blocks were still stiff. Corella had passed SSS by this time and simply sailed through us. And was never headed on a reaching course.
Away to Robins with a bit of dodging of various fleets and the gaps in the breeze showed themselves. Not on the water, but in the separation of the H28 fleet. We chased Dave Locke, Bill chased us and Anna and Nerrima were struggling to keep up. Either you had heads out of the boat looking everywhere and in our case, be prepared to lay a few tacks. Or you sat there and cursed the breeze. We did our share.
Around Robins and down to Addison on a knocking breeze that swooped and swung. It delivered us at Addison, more or less. Then all the way up to Robins again. No passing lanes, but a bit of dodging of RP fleets probably lost us a few meters, Mind you, some were polite enough to give us room. This time the return was to Como and that’s where a number of tacks were laid on.
Win - lose or draw, it was all the same. Around Como and the sight of the shortened course flags were welcome. Time for a tidy up and a beer before results.
Over the line and on handicap: Corella, Mariner & Swiftsure Saga.
Saturday Sailing: 6th of April 2024
What happens when you lose a crew member over board? Good question.
Three boats took off on the water in a (frankly dead) Westerly of 3 knots with a course 4 short.
It didn’t improve very much, but it was enough to keep them moving.
According to my informant on Wynella, they battled to get a good start, but did well to catch up. However the major upset occurred when the fordeckie on Wynella (no names please) took an inadvertent step and dropped into the water alongside Applecross Spit. In less than a second, a beefy hand reached out and pulled Hayden out of the water. Could have been worse, they may have left him there, having lightened the boat by his premature decision to leave the boat and sailed on regardless. It’s a pity that the rules state that you must finish the race with the same number of crew you started with.
Over the line and on handicap: Nerrima, Wynella and Aloha
Salt get in the main sheets &
Another blasted Sou Easter.
Five of the best rocked up to the line today.
Ernie had joined us as no one wanted to sail on Wynella today. Injured, funerals, out of contact, (I’ve heard them all) We had the same problem on Mariner with Ron over in Rotto (still); Phil in Broken Hill and Liz with Covid related friends.
So Brian got to helm, Ernie took the main and Geoff took a break on the foredeck. A simple pleasure as we lined up on the start line and began the complicated dance known as pre start. Too early was the call. A suggestion for a gybe was put forward and agreed on. That left us hanging on our sails for the last few seconds and fortunately the starters agreed we weren’t too far over at the start. (Though in the after sail discussion, it was by how much we were over as the boat beside us thought they were over as well)
Naa… remember that start a few weeks ago.. they were almost an half boat length ahead of us at the line. The course one was a bit of surprise as we were expecting a course two or similar for a sou-easter.
Mariner took the lead and remembering the conversation from the last attempt on a similar run, we headed up to Martin and further. Fortunately. Past the highest mooring and then tack in time to make the mark and run away down the river to Sampson. Running the freeway is always a challenge and calling the pressure is the major issue. Swiftsure Saga was doing very well and got up to our transom, but no way past was offered and we turned in unison toward the next mark. Print.
Riding the freeway special, we poled out for the first and last time and worked hard to keep Swiftsure Saga on our port transom being mindful that Corella and the rest of the fleet would jump us at the first chance. Gybe and head for Addison with Ernie groaning on the main sheet. The freshwater rinsing of the mainsheet worked, but the last two metres around the blocks were still stiff. Corella had passed SSS by this time and simply sailed through us. And was never headed on a reaching course.
Away to Robins with a bit of dodging of various fleets and the gaps in the breeze showed themselves. Not on the water, but in the separation of the H28 fleet. We chased Dave Locke, Bill chased us and Anna and Nerrima were struggling to keep up. Either you had heads out of the boat looking everywhere and in our case, be prepared to lay a few tacks. Or you sat there and cursed the breeze. We did our share.
Around Robins and down to Addison on a knocking breeze that swooped and swung. It delivered us at Addison, more or less. Then all the way up to Robins again. No passing lanes, but a bit of dodging of RP fleets probably lost us a few meters, Mind you, some were polite enough to give us room. This time the return was to Como and that’s where a number of tacks were laid on.
Win - lose or draw, it was all the same. Around Como and the sight of the shortened course flags were welcome. Time for a tidy up and a beer before results.
Over the line and on handicap: Corella, Mariner & Swiftsure Saga.
Saturday Sailing: 6th of April 2024
What happens when you lose a crew member over board? Good question.
Three boats took off on the water in a (frankly dead) Westerly of 3 knots with a course 4 short.
It didn’t improve very much, but it was enough to keep them moving.
According to my informant on Wynella, they battled to get a good start, but did well to catch up. However the major upset occurred when the fordeckie on Wynella (no names please) took an inadvertent step and dropped into the water alongside Applecross Spit. In less than a second, a beefy hand reached out and pulled Hayden out of the water. Could have been worse, they may have left him there, having lightened the boat by his premature decision to leave the boat and sailed on regardless. It’s a pity that the rules state that you must finish the race with the same number of crew you started with.
Over the line and on handicap: Nerrima, Wynella and Aloha
Wednesday the 3rd of April
From a Watery Grave &
Closer to the breeze.
Geoff Reason has really thrown himself at his boat. As the photos show, the very sight of Carina sunk in the pens was mortifying and arriving on the scene as Geoff was coming to terms with the fact made it quite clear that any plans Geoff had, were turned on their head. So he bit the bullet and against all advice to the contrary, {think chain saw and skip}, the boat was hauled up on the hard and he set to work.
Several members of the H28 community have joined him and be it raking out the old cotton and sikaflex or bringing a grinder down to clean the paint off, the hull has been taken back to the timber and all the rust removed from the keel. Geoff now has to clean up the insides and tape all the seams ready for the compounds that will again seal the hull.
Geoff has had the advice of Ian Weaver and Dave Locke, both shipwrights in their own fields and is a lot happier now than he was three weeks ago. To be continued.
Mariner had a guest helm today (Geoff R) and given that it was a really soft day, it was all about the light breezes available. Liz had joined us again and while Phil and Ron are away, we’re doing alright. Pressure was the order of the day and half a dozen boats set off on a course 4 with a Sou Easter of about 5 knots available. Wisely they didn’t send us off to Martin & Weaver but despite the best of intentions at the start line, we crossed it perhaps 30 seconds late. But we were closer to the breeze that anyone else and boat by boat, we rolled the fleet, slipping past Corella just before Sampson and turned in the lead.
Geoff wasn’t fazed; he’s done this before with Vic Court. But it was the trimmer’s task and with the foredeck (Brian) urging us on the next task was to aim for Robins and slide down the breeze just a little bit ahead. A pole was put in place, but not brought into play. Once again, Corella was on our tail and it was surprising to see Swiftsure Saga back in the field, but you never put any of the assembled fleet aside as they are as competitive as ever.
We made it Robins still clear of the fleet, but by now Bill on Swiftsure had caught up and Corella had fallen back, “never say never”. The discussion raged with where to find the best pressure as the topic on the way to Dolphin East and again we just increased the lead as we progressed to the mark. Go north, go back into the middle, see that pressure line and surprisingly we watched as the freeway filled in toward us. Best boat gets to the pressure first and we did so.
But the rest of the fleet wasn’t doing badly either and the middle had the pressure at the same time as we did. The boats were hooking up into the breeze and we were waiting for the knock to affect them as we had purposely taken the knock on the other board to get down to Como and then tacked to cross it easily. The knock finally came and the atmosphere on the boat went calm. We had them and we had a counted lead of 125 seconds on the next boat. Who just happened to be Corella followed by Anna both of whom had used the middle very well.
Flags are up was the announcement from the foredeck and sure enough as we rolled across the line we got the horn, we then looked back to see how Corella fared. She was hit by a big knock which was slowing her down, but she made it to the line in one board but 3 and a half minutes later.
Over the line and on handicap:
Mariner, Corella and Anna.
There was no Saturday sailing over the Easter break.
There are two sets of images today.
1) A new beginning.
2) Wednesday Sailing.
From a Watery Grave &
Closer to the breeze.
Geoff Reason has really thrown himself at his boat. As the photos show, the very sight of Carina sunk in the pens was mortifying and arriving on the scene as Geoff was coming to terms with the fact made it quite clear that any plans Geoff had, were turned on their head. So he bit the bullet and against all advice to the contrary, {think chain saw and skip}, the boat was hauled up on the hard and he set to work.
Several members of the H28 community have joined him and be it raking out the old cotton and sikaflex or bringing a grinder down to clean the paint off, the hull has been taken back to the timber and all the rust removed from the keel. Geoff now has to clean up the insides and tape all the seams ready for the compounds that will again seal the hull.
Geoff has had the advice of Ian Weaver and Dave Locke, both shipwrights in their own fields and is a lot happier now than he was three weeks ago. To be continued.
Mariner had a guest helm today (Geoff R) and given that it was a really soft day, it was all about the light breezes available. Liz had joined us again and while Phil and Ron are away, we’re doing alright. Pressure was the order of the day and half a dozen boats set off on a course 4 with a Sou Easter of about 5 knots available. Wisely they didn’t send us off to Martin & Weaver but despite the best of intentions at the start line, we crossed it perhaps 30 seconds late. But we were closer to the breeze that anyone else and boat by boat, we rolled the fleet, slipping past Corella just before Sampson and turned in the lead.
Geoff wasn’t fazed; he’s done this before with Vic Court. But it was the trimmer’s task and with the foredeck (Brian) urging us on the next task was to aim for Robins and slide down the breeze just a little bit ahead. A pole was put in place, but not brought into play. Once again, Corella was on our tail and it was surprising to see Swiftsure Saga back in the field, but you never put any of the assembled fleet aside as they are as competitive as ever.
We made it Robins still clear of the fleet, but by now Bill on Swiftsure had caught up and Corella had fallen back, “never say never”. The discussion raged with where to find the best pressure as the topic on the way to Dolphin East and again we just increased the lead as we progressed to the mark. Go north, go back into the middle, see that pressure line and surprisingly we watched as the freeway filled in toward us. Best boat gets to the pressure first and we did so.
But the rest of the fleet wasn’t doing badly either and the middle had the pressure at the same time as we did. The boats were hooking up into the breeze and we were waiting for the knock to affect them as we had purposely taken the knock on the other board to get down to Como and then tacked to cross it easily. The knock finally came and the atmosphere on the boat went calm. We had them and we had a counted lead of 125 seconds on the next boat. Who just happened to be Corella followed by Anna both of whom had used the middle very well.
Flags are up was the announcement from the foredeck and sure enough as we rolled across the line we got the horn, we then looked back to see how Corella fared. She was hit by a big knock which was slowing her down, but she made it to the line in one board but 3 and a half minutes later.
Over the line and on handicap:
Mariner, Corella and Anna.
There was no Saturday sailing over the Easter break.
There are two sets of images today.
1) A new beginning.
2) Wednesday Sailing.
Wednesday the 27th of March 2024 The end of the Summer series
Herreshoff Hill is official &
Ours to lose.
Ernie Little has done it again with a street sign denoting the presence of the area known as Herreshoff Hill.
Well done Mr Chairman.
We had to finish last in a fleet of 7 to lose the Summer Championships.
And we nearly did. With a healthy handicap and two regulars out of action, even a clean bum and the skipper on the helm didn’t help us get going any faster as we saw the boat slowly slipping back in the field.
Welcome to Liz from Canada who stepped on board as a newbie and blew us away with her ability to get the sheets in, in a hurry. And to David Stanford-Smith from Mat Rose’s King Canute who joined us as the skipper had been actively recruiting with the knowledge that we were two down.
On a westerly course 2 and about 6 to 10 knots it was a Monty that we would be working very hard. The boat doesn’t like light breezes and it was clear that a good start would be tantamount. How one or two boats didn’t get pinged for being OCS is beyond us but never matter. We chose to run down the straight line to Sampson with the hope that it was a shorter course, but half way down the line, the fleet began to roll over us and by Sampson, we were back in the pack and boxed in on both sides.
A chance presented and urged on by Geoff from the foredeck, we tacked and got ourselves clear of the pack heading out toward Heathcote for a short tack before we set ourselves to the task to get to Hall Mark in good order. Ahead of us was Corella and Wynella who had John Mewitt on board and was certainly improving the boats performance. This time we all knew where Hall Mark was and it was a chase to the mark with Corella well away. But Wynella was achievable and the race was on.
Past Hall Mark and to Armstrong with angles being tossed around as we had to consider Anna, who wasn’t far away and of course Bill and Swiftsure Saga who was matching us on the run. Then away to Como with the long down wind run to be considered. A pole on the starboard side and the occasional gybe to bring ourselves over to the north a little as we were being seduced by Swiftsure Saga. We watched as Wynella drifted across our bows to assume a spot well to the north of us and little to our pleasure he was set for a clean run to Como.
Then the game began and the challenge between the two boats had us taken well out of the way while Wynella forged ahead. Trying to catch her was a lost cause as we were being carted all the way into the RH side of the course. Eventually it ceased but everyone was well to the north of us. Then around Como and off on the track yet again after the outer start line on the short triangle of Dolphin East, Print and back down to Como and Thelma. No one was a winner on this track and we noted that The First Jindarra had retired and as we slipped up to the Finish line, Swiftsure Saga didn’t pass through the finish line as well, retiring his boat from the race.
Craig Balmer popped up at the end of the day, he was looking a little peaked, but we were very glad to see him on deck. Perhaps after winter he hopes.
Over the Line: Corella, Wynella and Mariner.
On Handicap: Wynella, Corella and Anna.
The summer series ended with Mariner taking the series by 1.5 points from Wynella and Nerrima 2.5 points behind Wynella. Just enough.
Saturday Sailing, the 23rd of March.
The easterlies had the three starters working hard to keep their Spinnakers in line on a course 2. Nerrima felt the full force of a gust around near Robins and simply lay over on her side. From all reports no one was hurt, but the boat took an almighty gulp of water and the skipper thought it might be a good idea to retire to pump out the boat before she decided to turn into a submarine. And his spinnaker was still in good condition, thank goodness as they aren’t cheap any more.
Over the Line: Wynella and Aloha
On Handicap: Aloha and Wynella (Nerrima retired)
Herreshoff Hill is official &
Ours to lose.
Ernie Little has done it again with a street sign denoting the presence of the area known as Herreshoff Hill.
Well done Mr Chairman.
We had to finish last in a fleet of 7 to lose the Summer Championships.
And we nearly did. With a healthy handicap and two regulars out of action, even a clean bum and the skipper on the helm didn’t help us get going any faster as we saw the boat slowly slipping back in the field.
Welcome to Liz from Canada who stepped on board as a newbie and blew us away with her ability to get the sheets in, in a hurry. And to David Stanford-Smith from Mat Rose’s King Canute who joined us as the skipper had been actively recruiting with the knowledge that we were two down.
On a westerly course 2 and about 6 to 10 knots it was a Monty that we would be working very hard. The boat doesn’t like light breezes and it was clear that a good start would be tantamount. How one or two boats didn’t get pinged for being OCS is beyond us but never matter. We chose to run down the straight line to Sampson with the hope that it was a shorter course, but half way down the line, the fleet began to roll over us and by Sampson, we were back in the pack and boxed in on both sides.
A chance presented and urged on by Geoff from the foredeck, we tacked and got ourselves clear of the pack heading out toward Heathcote for a short tack before we set ourselves to the task to get to Hall Mark in good order. Ahead of us was Corella and Wynella who had John Mewitt on board and was certainly improving the boats performance. This time we all knew where Hall Mark was and it was a chase to the mark with Corella well away. But Wynella was achievable and the race was on.
Past Hall Mark and to Armstrong with angles being tossed around as we had to consider Anna, who wasn’t far away and of course Bill and Swiftsure Saga who was matching us on the run. Then away to Como with the long down wind run to be considered. A pole on the starboard side and the occasional gybe to bring ourselves over to the north a little as we were being seduced by Swiftsure Saga. We watched as Wynella drifted across our bows to assume a spot well to the north of us and little to our pleasure he was set for a clean run to Como.
Then the game began and the challenge between the two boats had us taken well out of the way while Wynella forged ahead. Trying to catch her was a lost cause as we were being carted all the way into the RH side of the course. Eventually it ceased but everyone was well to the north of us. Then around Como and off on the track yet again after the outer start line on the short triangle of Dolphin East, Print and back down to Como and Thelma. No one was a winner on this track and we noted that The First Jindarra had retired and as we slipped up to the Finish line, Swiftsure Saga didn’t pass through the finish line as well, retiring his boat from the race.
Craig Balmer popped up at the end of the day, he was looking a little peaked, but we were very glad to see him on deck. Perhaps after winter he hopes.
Over the Line: Corella, Wynella and Mariner.
On Handicap: Wynella, Corella and Anna.
The summer series ended with Mariner taking the series by 1.5 points from Wynella and Nerrima 2.5 points behind Wynella. Just enough.
Saturday Sailing, the 23rd of March.
The easterlies had the three starters working hard to keep their Spinnakers in line on a course 2. Nerrima felt the full force of a gust around near Robins and simply lay over on her side. From all reports no one was hurt, but the boat took an almighty gulp of water and the skipper thought it might be a good idea to retire to pump out the boat before she decided to turn into a submarine. And his spinnaker was still in good condition, thank goodness as they aren’t cheap any more.
Over the Line: Wynella and Aloha
On Handicap: Aloha and Wynella (Nerrima retired)
Wednesday the 20th of March 2024
Dabbles is dealt with.
Geoff Sneezby does a Twilight &
A battle to the finish.
Lets get Dabbles out of the way first. Bill on Swiftsure Saga has had a perennial visitor who insists on laying her eggs on his boat. The first two or three years were tolerated, but this time around Dabbles the duck got in quite early and Bill seized the chance to clear the boat of duck eggs as frankly Dabbles can be a real annoyance on Frostbites and winter sailing. So out they went.
Geoff Sneezby, much loved H28 sailor and club starter was taken out on Wynella for a twilight, thanks to the generosity of Ernie, Geoff Reason and Les Brooker. From all reports and the accompanying photos it went very well.
The day started with another Easterly which was whipping through to begin with, but basically fell out after the start. Didn't stop the starters from sending us up to Martin - Weaver though and the battle on the line was pretty intense as all six boats went hammer and tongs at the pin end and Phil Lammonby did a fine job to get us over the line in the lead. The charge up to Martin was pretty torrid and we had Dave Locke on our hammer all the way with Les Brooker and John Wright close by. But that was only part of it as we then had to find our way through the moorings after Martin and both Phil and I had our hands full getting the boat to point high. Then the tack and aim at Weaver with some of the slower boats who decided to tack earlier, running the gamut hoping to get a lucky lift. It wasn't to be though and at that point the fleet split into two with Swiftsure Saga and Corella on our tail and the second group of Nerrima, Anna and Wynella contending with each other.
Again the run to Sampson on the course two was our undoing as though we tried hard we simply weren't as slippery as Corella and SSS. The dropping breeze had us chasing pressure and at Sampson we were third. Give us a sou wester please, about 20 knots would do nicely. So on our way to Hall Mark and we watched as a div two boat went the wrong side of inner dolphin without even knowing that they had done the wrong thing. Yes we had to work our way through the Royal fleet, but we found a nice gap and didn't even lose the pole we had set. Eventually we had to gybe to make the mark and the foredeck did a good job getting the pole across without incident.
Around the mark and away to Armstrong with the decision being made as to how far we could go after the Armstrong before we began the run up the breeze. It was dictated to a degree by the two boats in the lead and we took a chance, went early and then watched as David and Bill battled all the way to Como with David in the lead. Around the mark we went and aimed at the outer start line with the surety that we would be sent around again.. the fluctuating breeze had filled in again. Behind us, Wynella was sailing very well and Nerrima and Anna were following at a respectable distance as each boat dealt with the variable breeze.
Away to Sampson again, with the chatter from the foredeck filling the air as he and our port side trimmer swapped banter. Never have we ever had so much verbal on the boat......! However a run to Dolphin East ensued and Lockie's lead seemed to grow, but on the way back down to Print then Como, something happened with David's speed or maybe he just picked the wrong line. Swiftsure crossed in front of him and then failed to cover him when they aimed at Como with Corella managing to get to Como first, but had to tack to get around the mark. He was far enough in front to make it to the mark first, but everyone on our boat at least, was watching the action closely.
Then it was a run down to Thelma and away to the line. Well sailed Corella and Swiftsure Saga.. we were happy to run third, but full marks to Wynella who lead the second fleet to the line.
Over the line: Corella, Swiftsure Saga and Mariner.
On handicap: Swiftsure Saga, Corella and Mariner.
Saturday Sailing. Club Championship # 7
A sou-wester ran the river, but a quiet one - 11 knots and a course 4. Unusual for a club championship but effective enough to get the boats around in a couple of hours. Corella took the championship but Nerrima took the handicap honours with the 4 boats enjoying the afternoons sail. Les Brooker was kind enough to pass on a couple of photos from the foredeck of Wynella ( thanks Hayden) and of course it was all about his new spinnaker. Purple and White. Hi Ho.
Over the line: Corella, Nerrima and Wynella.
On handicap: Nerrima, Corella and Wynella.
Dabbles is dealt with.
Geoff Sneezby does a Twilight &
A battle to the finish.
Lets get Dabbles out of the way first. Bill on Swiftsure Saga has had a perennial visitor who insists on laying her eggs on his boat. The first two or three years were tolerated, but this time around Dabbles the duck got in quite early and Bill seized the chance to clear the boat of duck eggs as frankly Dabbles can be a real annoyance on Frostbites and winter sailing. So out they went.
Geoff Sneezby, much loved H28 sailor and club starter was taken out on Wynella for a twilight, thanks to the generosity of Ernie, Geoff Reason and Les Brooker. From all reports and the accompanying photos it went very well.
The day started with another Easterly which was whipping through to begin with, but basically fell out after the start. Didn't stop the starters from sending us up to Martin - Weaver though and the battle on the line was pretty intense as all six boats went hammer and tongs at the pin end and Phil Lammonby did a fine job to get us over the line in the lead. The charge up to Martin was pretty torrid and we had Dave Locke on our hammer all the way with Les Brooker and John Wright close by. But that was only part of it as we then had to find our way through the moorings after Martin and both Phil and I had our hands full getting the boat to point high. Then the tack and aim at Weaver with some of the slower boats who decided to tack earlier, running the gamut hoping to get a lucky lift. It wasn't to be though and at that point the fleet split into two with Swiftsure Saga and Corella on our tail and the second group of Nerrima, Anna and Wynella contending with each other.
Again the run to Sampson on the course two was our undoing as though we tried hard we simply weren't as slippery as Corella and SSS. The dropping breeze had us chasing pressure and at Sampson we were third. Give us a sou wester please, about 20 knots would do nicely. So on our way to Hall Mark and we watched as a div two boat went the wrong side of inner dolphin without even knowing that they had done the wrong thing. Yes we had to work our way through the Royal fleet, but we found a nice gap and didn't even lose the pole we had set. Eventually we had to gybe to make the mark and the foredeck did a good job getting the pole across without incident.
Around the mark and away to Armstrong with the decision being made as to how far we could go after the Armstrong before we began the run up the breeze. It was dictated to a degree by the two boats in the lead and we took a chance, went early and then watched as David and Bill battled all the way to Como with David in the lead. Around the mark we went and aimed at the outer start line with the surety that we would be sent around again.. the fluctuating breeze had filled in again. Behind us, Wynella was sailing very well and Nerrima and Anna were following at a respectable distance as each boat dealt with the variable breeze.
Away to Sampson again, with the chatter from the foredeck filling the air as he and our port side trimmer swapped banter. Never have we ever had so much verbal on the boat......! However a run to Dolphin East ensued and Lockie's lead seemed to grow, but on the way back down to Print then Como, something happened with David's speed or maybe he just picked the wrong line. Swiftsure crossed in front of him and then failed to cover him when they aimed at Como with Corella managing to get to Como first, but had to tack to get around the mark. He was far enough in front to make it to the mark first, but everyone on our boat at least, was watching the action closely.
Then it was a run down to Thelma and away to the line. Well sailed Corella and Swiftsure Saga.. we were happy to run third, but full marks to Wynella who lead the second fleet to the line.
Over the line: Corella, Swiftsure Saga and Mariner.
On handicap: Swiftsure Saga, Corella and Mariner.
Saturday Sailing. Club Championship # 7
A sou-wester ran the river, but a quiet one - 11 knots and a course 4. Unusual for a club championship but effective enough to get the boats around in a couple of hours. Corella took the championship but Nerrima took the handicap honours with the 4 boats enjoying the afternoons sail. Les Brooker was kind enough to pass on a couple of photos from the foredeck of Wynella ( thanks Hayden) and of course it was all about his new spinnaker. Purple and White. Hi Ho.
Over the line: Corella, Nerrima and Wynella.
On handicap: Nerrima, Corella and Wynella.
Wednesday the 13th of March 2024
Another dodgy easterly &
A bit of luck for Bill.
I have to start this afternoon with a report that Carina sank in her pen on Saturday night. I was on my bike on Sunday am and dropped past the club to find David Locke loading oil booms into the back of his truck. The query was put and one word was uttered. 'Carina' It took a few seconds for me to realise that it was actually Carina the H28 and she had gone down in her pen. I rode around to the jetty and sure enough, there was the forlorn figure of Geoff trying to rescue bits and pieces from the boat. A brief chat and commiseration was offered with the 'what will you do now' foremost in my mind. There was a plan and Carina presently sits on the slips at SoPYC.
Once again, the easterly was in and the breeze was to dominate the race. We had seven H28s on the water today and with Colin Stevenson on the helm of the Jin we were set for a a good fleet. The club coach Denis Jones had been invited to join Wynella for the afternoon and Ernie was driving as once again they were looking to flesh their crew out. The starters sent us up to Martin - Weaver on a course 4 and careful timing had us on the line and in the lead. All the way to Martin and deeper toward the moorings we went and flipped over to head to Weaver. We had fair pressure with us to start and running along the freeway to Sampson, it dropped in and out, giving Corella a fair chance to catch up. And so they did. They rolled us before Sampson.
Bill was in a good spot and was able to take advantage of being first in the breeze. Mariner was beginning to catch up with Corella and by Robins we had her in our sights. And then the breeze dropped out; but Swiftsure Saga was in a better spot with some air and simply sailed around the pair of us to take the lead, never looking back. We were away to Dolphin East with the chance that the race would be shortened up as time was slipping away. It was a follow me procedure to DE and then the last work of the day began. Down to Como.
The fleet spread itself around the river, some going deep into the north and others crossing over to the south to run down the line to Como. We nearly caught Corella on their way into the north, but it was a momentary chance and Lockie was following his plan to come out of the left. But Swiftsure Saga was on the same line as we were and had done very well. Making it to Como was another thing as a Melges 32 slipped between us and Corella providing a few interesting photos. Around we went with Bill in the lead, but behind us another issue was developing.
Nerrima had gone out to the north and was following Corella's path to Como... Anna and Wynella were at Como and making it around the mark when a Foundation 36 drove right into the corner at Como on starboard pushing both Wynella and Anna back out of their intended path around Como effectively stalling them on the mark. That gave Nerrima a chance as she had momentum and by the finish line, she had taken the lead in the group. The action by the Foundation 36 was questionable, however it was legit but the larger boat had no compassion for the other fleet. Karma is requested.
The race was shortened for all fleets.
Over the line: Swiftsure Saga, Corella and Mariner.
On handicap: Swiftsure Saga, equal second Mariner and Nerrima.
A pursuit race was held on Saturday, but at this stage no results can be found on the club website.
Another dodgy easterly &
A bit of luck for Bill.
I have to start this afternoon with a report that Carina sank in her pen on Saturday night. I was on my bike on Sunday am and dropped past the club to find David Locke loading oil booms into the back of his truck. The query was put and one word was uttered. 'Carina' It took a few seconds for me to realise that it was actually Carina the H28 and she had gone down in her pen. I rode around to the jetty and sure enough, there was the forlorn figure of Geoff trying to rescue bits and pieces from the boat. A brief chat and commiseration was offered with the 'what will you do now' foremost in my mind. There was a plan and Carina presently sits on the slips at SoPYC.
Once again, the easterly was in and the breeze was to dominate the race. We had seven H28s on the water today and with Colin Stevenson on the helm of the Jin we were set for a a good fleet. The club coach Denis Jones had been invited to join Wynella for the afternoon and Ernie was driving as once again they were looking to flesh their crew out. The starters sent us up to Martin - Weaver on a course 4 and careful timing had us on the line and in the lead. All the way to Martin and deeper toward the moorings we went and flipped over to head to Weaver. We had fair pressure with us to start and running along the freeway to Sampson, it dropped in and out, giving Corella a fair chance to catch up. And so they did. They rolled us before Sampson.
Bill was in a good spot and was able to take advantage of being first in the breeze. Mariner was beginning to catch up with Corella and by Robins we had her in our sights. And then the breeze dropped out; but Swiftsure Saga was in a better spot with some air and simply sailed around the pair of us to take the lead, never looking back. We were away to Dolphin East with the chance that the race would be shortened up as time was slipping away. It was a follow me procedure to DE and then the last work of the day began. Down to Como.
The fleet spread itself around the river, some going deep into the north and others crossing over to the south to run down the line to Como. We nearly caught Corella on their way into the north, but it was a momentary chance and Lockie was following his plan to come out of the left. But Swiftsure Saga was on the same line as we were and had done very well. Making it to Como was another thing as a Melges 32 slipped between us and Corella providing a few interesting photos. Around we went with Bill in the lead, but behind us another issue was developing.
Nerrima had gone out to the north and was following Corella's path to Como... Anna and Wynella were at Como and making it around the mark when a Foundation 36 drove right into the corner at Como on starboard pushing both Wynella and Anna back out of their intended path around Como effectively stalling them on the mark. That gave Nerrima a chance as she had momentum and by the finish line, she had taken the lead in the group. The action by the Foundation 36 was questionable, however it was legit but the larger boat had no compassion for the other fleet. Karma is requested.
The race was shortened for all fleets.
Over the line: Swiftsure Saga, Corella and Mariner.
On handicap: Swiftsure Saga, equal second Mariner and Nerrima.
A pursuit race was held on Saturday, but at this stage no results can be found on the club website.
Wednesday the 6th of March 2024
A masterclass on the water &
A rather dodgy easterly.
I have just had the entire story wiped by a kick from the Weebly system. Not happy!!! Da Capo.
The starters had realised that the afternoon was going to be trying and sent the 6 H28's away on a course two with an easterly that swung from the north to the south. As they had told us we were running up to Martin - Weaver, we went for a look and realised very quickly that we had to go into the moorings to make Weaver.
Hanging on our sails, we shuffled the boats on the start line and while the boat below us appeared to be over, no flag was flown so we took off en-mass. The smart pair of Swiftsure Saga and Corella took a chance as did Wynella and while the first two made it around the mark, Wynella had to come back for the mark and caused us to have to avoid them. A protest ensued and they did their whizzy once around the mark. Its a pity as they had done very well off the line and looked to be a chance.
The run down to Sampson was a classic with SSS and Corella firmly in the lead and a pack of four sorting themselves out down to the mark. Around Sampson and then a pole of one variety or another to get to Hall Mark and we had to dodge the RP div two fleet as they charged down their path to Foam Buoy. That cost us a few meters as we made our way through and the lead pair managed to get through clearly.
But it wasn't without incident as the leaders had apparently decided to go to Armstrong and all of a sudden realised that Hall Mark was below them and the whole fleet (baa baa) shifted course. So around Hall Mark and away to Armstrong with the decision to cross the creek or take a chance on the shifting breezes on the way to Como. Well, of course then there was the Royal Perth fleet crossing us as well and we had a few shouting matches with some of the boats as they tried to establish their ability to avoid damage. But the lead pair were immune to this and follow the leader, they worked their way down to Como to round ready to aim at the outer start line. There was a slight shuffle of our own boats as well as we were challenged by Anna briefly and it was only at Como that we were able to review our position.
No shortened course, so away we went on the small lap and Dolphin East was our target. Bill had a decent lead by this time and Erich the Octopus was all over the boat, keeping Swiftsure Saga sailing well and true. Around Sampson and a pole with the last three boats forming an everchanging pack as the lead re arranged itself yet again. By this time we had Pipedreams a Div. two boat in the mix and they were thankfully, careful enough to keep clear of us. So down to Dolphin East with the pair keeping company and Bill holding the inside spot.
Away they went and we rounded shortly after, but the race was fascinating as try as he could, Lockie could not get through Swiftsure Saga, down to Print and so long as Bill held the lead and covered Lockie. It was a Monty.. he had him.. Not that David would die wondering ... challenge after challenge but SSS held the lead to Thelma and then it was the run to the line. I guess a clean bottom was the winner there. Great match racing between the two of them and a fine result. Behind them Mariner had established a good third over the line and the trio had finally sorted out their differences with Anna coming out tops and Les on Nerrima getting past Wynella at Thelma to take fifth on the line.
Over the line: Swiftsure Saga, Corella and Mariner.
On handicap: Swiftsure Saga, Corella and Wynella.
A classic piece of Match racing and Bill and Erich deserve all the credit coming to them.
Andy Lane is on the mend and John Pierzak hopes to be on the boat next week.
There was no Saturday sailing last week.
A masterclass on the water &
A rather dodgy easterly.
I have just had the entire story wiped by a kick from the Weebly system. Not happy!!! Da Capo.
The starters had realised that the afternoon was going to be trying and sent the 6 H28's away on a course two with an easterly that swung from the north to the south. As they had told us we were running up to Martin - Weaver, we went for a look and realised very quickly that we had to go into the moorings to make Weaver.
Hanging on our sails, we shuffled the boats on the start line and while the boat below us appeared to be over, no flag was flown so we took off en-mass. The smart pair of Swiftsure Saga and Corella took a chance as did Wynella and while the first two made it around the mark, Wynella had to come back for the mark and caused us to have to avoid them. A protest ensued and they did their whizzy once around the mark. Its a pity as they had done very well off the line and looked to be a chance.
The run down to Sampson was a classic with SSS and Corella firmly in the lead and a pack of four sorting themselves out down to the mark. Around Sampson and then a pole of one variety or another to get to Hall Mark and we had to dodge the RP div two fleet as they charged down their path to Foam Buoy. That cost us a few meters as we made our way through and the lead pair managed to get through clearly.
But it wasn't without incident as the leaders had apparently decided to go to Armstrong and all of a sudden realised that Hall Mark was below them and the whole fleet (baa baa) shifted course. So around Hall Mark and away to Armstrong with the decision to cross the creek or take a chance on the shifting breezes on the way to Como. Well, of course then there was the Royal Perth fleet crossing us as well and we had a few shouting matches with some of the boats as they tried to establish their ability to avoid damage. But the lead pair were immune to this and follow the leader, they worked their way down to Como to round ready to aim at the outer start line. There was a slight shuffle of our own boats as well as we were challenged by Anna briefly and it was only at Como that we were able to review our position.
No shortened course, so away we went on the small lap and Dolphin East was our target. Bill had a decent lead by this time and Erich the Octopus was all over the boat, keeping Swiftsure Saga sailing well and true. Around Sampson and a pole with the last three boats forming an everchanging pack as the lead re arranged itself yet again. By this time we had Pipedreams a Div. two boat in the mix and they were thankfully, careful enough to keep clear of us. So down to Dolphin East with the pair keeping company and Bill holding the inside spot.
Away they went and we rounded shortly after, but the race was fascinating as try as he could, Lockie could not get through Swiftsure Saga, down to Print and so long as Bill held the lead and covered Lockie. It was a Monty.. he had him.. Not that David would die wondering ... challenge after challenge but SSS held the lead to Thelma and then it was the run to the line. I guess a clean bottom was the winner there. Great match racing between the two of them and a fine result. Behind them Mariner had established a good third over the line and the trio had finally sorted out their differences with Anna coming out tops and Les on Nerrima getting past Wynella at Thelma to take fifth on the line.
Over the line: Swiftsure Saga, Corella and Mariner.
On handicap: Swiftsure Saga, Corella and Wynella.
A classic piece of Match racing and Bill and Erich deserve all the credit coming to them.
Andy Lane is on the mend and John Pierzak hopes to be on the boat next week.
There was no Saturday sailing last week.
Wednesday the 28th of February 2024
The name of the game. &
Sometimes you just can't pick them.
The day began slightly over clouded with a nice sou-wester pushing through. We had a couple of no - go's and we are wishing Ron well with his visit to the specialist. Gary came on board to cover for him and although he was a novice, he knew which side of a boat to sit on. Lockie is still on holidays and Rita fronted on Wynella and big things were expected from that boat.
Five H28's and a course one with a run up to Martin and Weaver to begin. Stirring stuff to get you going. Hanging around the channel, we began the dive to the start line but we were way too early and a few moments hanging on our sails ensued. Bill was sitting on our starboard quarter of our transom and the rest were stacked below us with a ding dong battle between ourselves and Anna up to Martin. Not having a chance to rest on this one, Geoff ran the jib to the corner as we lifted to the mark and then eased our way down to follow Anna around the first mark. So chasing Anna was the name of the game.
Away to Weaver and down to Sampson, it was a test of the boats and skippers as it was a real question to pole out or not. Some did, some didn't and values changed as we sailed down to Sampson, checking to see what the next few marks were and how we could handle the boat with Gary on board. The unused pole was stowed and we rounded the mark in the lead having caught up with Anna on the run. However it wasn't without a certain amount of interest as we had caught up with a div two boat and put them into the mark rounding exercise.
On our way to Print, the decision was speed and height and fortunately the boat was delivering; a quick tack and another, then around the mark and a pole set after the gybe. Getting to Addison early gave us the chance to drop the pole earlier and then a smooth rounding set us on our way to Robins. Across the river to the channel and watch as John Wright pulled off another magnificent lift and it was only the speed that we had that helped us along.
Behind us we had Swiftsure Saga and Nerrima who had decided to go up the middle while Wynella was doing rather well considering, to keep their speed up and the boat in contention for the handicap. It was really a choice of paths up to Robins and which one should we take. Anna and Wynella were more or less traditional as we were, but there is always the chance of a different breeze as we discovered on the second leg up to Robins.
So down to Addison with clear air and only a pair of SS27's who had us thinking about a clash, but they turned at Print and we kept on going down. It was the second run up to Robins that had us seriously out of phase and there was much cursing as we knocked and knocked while watching Anna make gains on us. We simply couldn't pick the shifts. Eventually we made it to Robins and then looked toward Como as the next mark. Wynella and Nerima were trading tacks and it was clear that neither was going to give an inch. Swiftsure was doing well and appeared to be holding down a comfortable third place.
Around Como and look at the box.. yes there is a flag flying, but did it offer us anything? So we set ourselves for the inevitable knocks as we headed for the line and sure enough we had to take a quick double tack to cross the line where John Wright and Anna barrelled along much higher and made up valuable time to the finish line.. yes it was a shortened course again. Thanks starters.
Over the line: Mariner, Anna and Swiftsure Saga
On handicap: Mariner, Wynella and Anna.
Saturday Sailing: 24th of February. The 6th Championship round.
A really light day out of the sou west and a course 4 on offer.
Lockie was away and it gave the rest of the fleet a chance to show their stuff, but you cant allow for howlers like this. Nerrima had the race in the bag according to Geoff who was running the main on the boat. But someone forgot which was Anderson and/or King. So they had to go back and unwind their mistake. Leaving them well and truly in second place. This was not the first time according to Geoff.
Over the line and on handicap: Wynella, Nerrima and Aloha.
Again not very many photos. I was busy on the main on Wednesday
The name of the game. &
Sometimes you just can't pick them.
The day began slightly over clouded with a nice sou-wester pushing through. We had a couple of no - go's and we are wishing Ron well with his visit to the specialist. Gary came on board to cover for him and although he was a novice, he knew which side of a boat to sit on. Lockie is still on holidays and Rita fronted on Wynella and big things were expected from that boat.
Five H28's and a course one with a run up to Martin and Weaver to begin. Stirring stuff to get you going. Hanging around the channel, we began the dive to the start line but we were way too early and a few moments hanging on our sails ensued. Bill was sitting on our starboard quarter of our transom and the rest were stacked below us with a ding dong battle between ourselves and Anna up to Martin. Not having a chance to rest on this one, Geoff ran the jib to the corner as we lifted to the mark and then eased our way down to follow Anna around the first mark. So chasing Anna was the name of the game.
Away to Weaver and down to Sampson, it was a test of the boats and skippers as it was a real question to pole out or not. Some did, some didn't and values changed as we sailed down to Sampson, checking to see what the next few marks were and how we could handle the boat with Gary on board. The unused pole was stowed and we rounded the mark in the lead having caught up with Anna on the run. However it wasn't without a certain amount of interest as we had caught up with a div two boat and put them into the mark rounding exercise.
On our way to Print, the decision was speed and height and fortunately the boat was delivering; a quick tack and another, then around the mark and a pole set after the gybe. Getting to Addison early gave us the chance to drop the pole earlier and then a smooth rounding set us on our way to Robins. Across the river to the channel and watch as John Wright pulled off another magnificent lift and it was only the speed that we had that helped us along.
Behind us we had Swiftsure Saga and Nerrima who had decided to go up the middle while Wynella was doing rather well considering, to keep their speed up and the boat in contention for the handicap. It was really a choice of paths up to Robins and which one should we take. Anna and Wynella were more or less traditional as we were, but there is always the chance of a different breeze as we discovered on the second leg up to Robins.
So down to Addison with clear air and only a pair of SS27's who had us thinking about a clash, but they turned at Print and we kept on going down. It was the second run up to Robins that had us seriously out of phase and there was much cursing as we knocked and knocked while watching Anna make gains on us. We simply couldn't pick the shifts. Eventually we made it to Robins and then looked toward Como as the next mark. Wynella and Nerima were trading tacks and it was clear that neither was going to give an inch. Swiftsure was doing well and appeared to be holding down a comfortable third place.
Around Como and look at the box.. yes there is a flag flying, but did it offer us anything? So we set ourselves for the inevitable knocks as we headed for the line and sure enough we had to take a quick double tack to cross the line where John Wright and Anna barrelled along much higher and made up valuable time to the finish line.. yes it was a shortened course again. Thanks starters.
Over the line: Mariner, Anna and Swiftsure Saga
On handicap: Mariner, Wynella and Anna.
Saturday Sailing: 24th of February. The 6th Championship round.
A really light day out of the sou west and a course 4 on offer.
Lockie was away and it gave the rest of the fleet a chance to show their stuff, but you cant allow for howlers like this. Nerrima had the race in the bag according to Geoff who was running the main on the boat. But someone forgot which was Anderson and/or King. So they had to go back and unwind their mistake. Leaving them well and truly in second place. This was not the first time according to Geoff.
Over the line and on handicap: Wynella, Nerrima and Aloha.
Again not very many photos. I was busy on the main on Wednesday
Wednesday the 21st of February 2024
Third time lucky &
Just in time.
A six pack of H28's joined up on the water with a burgeoning sea breeze in place. In their wisdom the starters had us aimed at Martin and Weaver to begin with, so no pressure on the trimmers on this one. David Locke had non sailing guests on board so we were not expecting too much, but that would be underestimating Rita. Likewise Bill was missing both Big John and Erich so they were performing with just Graham and the skipper (sometimes that actually works very well). Everyone else was three or four up and it was going to be a good day.
5 of the 6 H28s were lurking above the line ready to swoop down to the box end, with Les on Nerrima electing to go low and hit the line with speed. It could have been anyone's, but Mariner saw the chance and jumped into the lead for the run along the jetties, with the main and jib operating in synchroneity as we aimed at Martin. But Les had chosen well and Hughie was kind as he rose up to Martin and managed to claim an inside berth on the mark. But not for long as Mariner smothered him, and he was almost buried in the wall of boats that followed us. Around Weaver and whether to run the pole out or not...
Out of the pack loomed Anna, with John Wright driving his boat like a demon and took a good lead over the pack to end up on our transom. Corella wasn't too far behind either with Rita and David working as a team to give their guests a good show. Wynella wasn't enjoying the day as much without Andy and we are still waiting to see how he is. Once we reached Sampson and rounded the mark, it was then up to us to lead the pack up to Print and take the first tack across to the mark. Wynella had gone left to get clear air and consequently went out the door. A pity, but all the other boats had spread out a bit and he wasn't getting any help by sitting in the rubbish air.
Tack and then around the mark with a gybe, slip between two on coming boats and then a starboard pole to Addison. A quick break to see where we were at and then girdle our loins for the run up to Robins and the possibilities that would ensue. Both John on Anna and David with Corella were very much on point and it was a case of keeping them behind us. Over to the Heathcote bank and then tack out, ready to dive back into the bay around Frenchie's to aim at Robins. With David and John on our heels, making good decisions was important and the boat was running really swiftly. Making Robins in one was the expectation and we swung around it at speed. A starboard pole that slowly went by the lee and two thirds of the way down, a gybe of the main was necessary to get us back into shape to arrive at Addison.
We gybed back and made it to the mark with an early drop that allowed us to power out of the turn and aim at Robins again. Same deal and again we were lifting across the river. A bit of Westerly influence probably and the clouds that had kept the breeze down were dissipating. More oomph. Over to the bank, tack out and then get rolled by the Royal Perth fleet. It could have been a disaster, but they rolled Corella as well and they were on our transom again. Right in under Heathcote and perhaps another metre more would have been disastrous. Lockie tacked and then we tacked and looking back I saw a swirl of sand that marked our tack. Just in Time. Then aim at Robins and run the boat as fast as we could. 5.8 to 6 knots. It was good, but Lockie was just as fast.
Around Robins in one swoop, set a pole and look back. Crickey, we were well away from the rest of the fleet. But Corella wasn't finished yet. He was close enough to cover us and while he couldn't get past, he had us slowing down. Extremely frustrating and good sailing. Drop the pole, make the corner and aim at the outer start line, which had turned into the finish line with a pair of shortened course flags waving brilliantly in the sun. The race to the finish was on. Corella always pushing always probing and of course Rob Male on Jindarra decided to ride over the top of us. Shrug those concerns aside and aim at the finish line.
Over the line: Mariner, Corella and Anna.
On handicap: Mariner, Nerrima and Anna.
Saturday sailing: WSW 10 knots Course one.
On a mild day, three boats took off with a slightly different start scenario. Given that most of the rest of the fleets were away on invitationals, the club decided that a box start would be fine. This time the H28's were first cabs off the rank and at 1330 Aloha, Wynella and Nerrima set off to Sampson. Nearly 2 hours and 45 minutes later, they began to arrive at the finish line.
Over the line: Nerrima, Wynella and Aloha.
On handicap: Wynella, Nerrima and Aloha.
Third time lucky &
Just in time.
A six pack of H28's joined up on the water with a burgeoning sea breeze in place. In their wisdom the starters had us aimed at Martin and Weaver to begin with, so no pressure on the trimmers on this one. David Locke had non sailing guests on board so we were not expecting too much, but that would be underestimating Rita. Likewise Bill was missing both Big John and Erich so they were performing with just Graham and the skipper (sometimes that actually works very well). Everyone else was three or four up and it was going to be a good day.
5 of the 6 H28s were lurking above the line ready to swoop down to the box end, with Les on Nerrima electing to go low and hit the line with speed. It could have been anyone's, but Mariner saw the chance and jumped into the lead for the run along the jetties, with the main and jib operating in synchroneity as we aimed at Martin. But Les had chosen well and Hughie was kind as he rose up to Martin and managed to claim an inside berth on the mark. But not for long as Mariner smothered him, and he was almost buried in the wall of boats that followed us. Around Weaver and whether to run the pole out or not...
Out of the pack loomed Anna, with John Wright driving his boat like a demon and took a good lead over the pack to end up on our transom. Corella wasn't too far behind either with Rita and David working as a team to give their guests a good show. Wynella wasn't enjoying the day as much without Andy and we are still waiting to see how he is. Once we reached Sampson and rounded the mark, it was then up to us to lead the pack up to Print and take the first tack across to the mark. Wynella had gone left to get clear air and consequently went out the door. A pity, but all the other boats had spread out a bit and he wasn't getting any help by sitting in the rubbish air.
Tack and then around the mark with a gybe, slip between two on coming boats and then a starboard pole to Addison. A quick break to see where we were at and then girdle our loins for the run up to Robins and the possibilities that would ensue. Both John on Anna and David with Corella were very much on point and it was a case of keeping them behind us. Over to the Heathcote bank and then tack out, ready to dive back into the bay around Frenchie's to aim at Robins. With David and John on our heels, making good decisions was important and the boat was running really swiftly. Making Robins in one was the expectation and we swung around it at speed. A starboard pole that slowly went by the lee and two thirds of the way down, a gybe of the main was necessary to get us back into shape to arrive at Addison.
We gybed back and made it to the mark with an early drop that allowed us to power out of the turn and aim at Robins again. Same deal and again we were lifting across the river. A bit of Westerly influence probably and the clouds that had kept the breeze down were dissipating. More oomph. Over to the bank, tack out and then get rolled by the Royal Perth fleet. It could have been a disaster, but they rolled Corella as well and they were on our transom again. Right in under Heathcote and perhaps another metre more would have been disastrous. Lockie tacked and then we tacked and looking back I saw a swirl of sand that marked our tack. Just in Time. Then aim at Robins and run the boat as fast as we could. 5.8 to 6 knots. It was good, but Lockie was just as fast.
Around Robins in one swoop, set a pole and look back. Crickey, we were well away from the rest of the fleet. But Corella wasn't finished yet. He was close enough to cover us and while he couldn't get past, he had us slowing down. Extremely frustrating and good sailing. Drop the pole, make the corner and aim at the outer start line, which had turned into the finish line with a pair of shortened course flags waving brilliantly in the sun. The race to the finish was on. Corella always pushing always probing and of course Rob Male on Jindarra decided to ride over the top of us. Shrug those concerns aside and aim at the finish line.
Over the line: Mariner, Corella and Anna.
On handicap: Mariner, Nerrima and Anna.
Saturday sailing: WSW 10 knots Course one.
On a mild day, three boats took off with a slightly different start scenario. Given that most of the rest of the fleets were away on invitationals, the club decided that a box start would be fine. This time the H28's were first cabs off the rank and at 1330 Aloha, Wynella and Nerrima set off to Sampson. Nearly 2 hours and 45 minutes later, they began to arrive at the finish line.
Over the line: Nerrima, Wynella and Aloha.
On handicap: Wynella, Nerrima and Aloha.
Wednesday the 14th of February 2024
Will we, won't we.
Wynella shows her colours. &
A Saturday Championship Round
Stuck between the breezes again as the half a dozen H28's drifted aimlessly toward the line. A puff from the freeway and the slowly gathering ripples on the water in the north. Yes it was there, but it wasn't there yet. Wisely the starters had offered the fleets a course 4 and I'll guess they were prepared to shorten it further if the breeze failed to fill in.
Phil had chosen to take the hi line near the box and the gathering breeze down the river as had Lockie and Rita, but those jammy sods down on the freeway picked up a last gasp and took off like rockets with Wynella and Anna looking mighty fine. Bill on Swiftsure Saga wasn't doing too badly as he had found the leading edge of the westerly and we watched Corella slip into it as well. But both Nerrima and Mariner were on the wrong side of the breeze and we could see the rest of the fleet disappearing as the freeway riders transited into the westerly and romped away. Will it get to us or wont we be so lucky.. arrggh! Frustratingly, it tickled our canvas and finally moved that 10 meters further up the river. We were away.
Second last around Sampson we set our sights to cross the river and just lifted and lifted. As did every other boat in the fleet. Ahead of us Wynella was still doing well with both Anna and Corella making solid gains on her but by the time the fleet had made it to Robins, Wynella had fallen back into third spot and Les on Nerrima was beginning to have a crack at us.. don't know why, but it was a hard one to carry and he managed to round Como in front of us.
Our job was simple... get past Nerrima on the downwind and a slightly better breeze as we went toward Como allowed us to slip past and a slick rounding at Como had us aimed at the outer start line. Ahead Wynella had regained second spot with Swiftsure Saga gaming with Anna on the dash to the outer start line. A reach back to Sampson and once again the skipper was heard to murmur "Soldiers Course". He was right of course but there was another twist in the tale as we headed off to King from Sampson only to see Swiftsure Saga with her main down and sailing home. {a question asked on the jetty supplied the answer.} The main halyard broke.
That's life unfortunately and it left Anna and Wynella to chase each other to the line, but Wynella had sailed well all day and her handicap said everything. Over a minute in the lead on h/cap.
Over the line: Corella, Anna and Wynella.
On handicap: Wynella, Anna and Corella.
Saturday Sailing the 10th of February. The 5th Championship round.
Course one and 11 knots of sea breeze that didn't get much stronger.
Four boats hit the water and competed well for a much better result than last week where frankly no one should have been on the water. However Corella had Ian Weaver on the boat and as a result romped away with the lead and left the rest of the fleet to sort it out between themselves. However the handicap results were a lot better for Wynella, giving them a good handicap win with Aloha defying everyone with a handicap second and Les on his (almost) unsinkable Nerrima (2 bilge pumps) second over the line and third on handicap. The comments from Nerrima gave me the idea that they were actually enjoying the race as their foredecky Simon had everything under control.
Over the line: Corella, Nerrima, Wynella and Aloha
On handicap: Wynella, Aloha, Nerrima and Corella
Andy Lane continues to be off Wynella and we are hoping that he is ok.
Will we, won't we.
Wynella shows her colours. &
A Saturday Championship Round
Stuck between the breezes again as the half a dozen H28's drifted aimlessly toward the line. A puff from the freeway and the slowly gathering ripples on the water in the north. Yes it was there, but it wasn't there yet. Wisely the starters had offered the fleets a course 4 and I'll guess they were prepared to shorten it further if the breeze failed to fill in.
Phil had chosen to take the hi line near the box and the gathering breeze down the river as had Lockie and Rita, but those jammy sods down on the freeway picked up a last gasp and took off like rockets with Wynella and Anna looking mighty fine. Bill on Swiftsure Saga wasn't doing too badly as he had found the leading edge of the westerly and we watched Corella slip into it as well. But both Nerrima and Mariner were on the wrong side of the breeze and we could see the rest of the fleet disappearing as the freeway riders transited into the westerly and romped away. Will it get to us or wont we be so lucky.. arrggh! Frustratingly, it tickled our canvas and finally moved that 10 meters further up the river. We were away.
Second last around Sampson we set our sights to cross the river and just lifted and lifted. As did every other boat in the fleet. Ahead of us Wynella was still doing well with both Anna and Corella making solid gains on her but by the time the fleet had made it to Robins, Wynella had fallen back into third spot and Les on Nerrima was beginning to have a crack at us.. don't know why, but it was a hard one to carry and he managed to round Como in front of us.
Our job was simple... get past Nerrima on the downwind and a slightly better breeze as we went toward Como allowed us to slip past and a slick rounding at Como had us aimed at the outer start line. Ahead Wynella had regained second spot with Swiftsure Saga gaming with Anna on the dash to the outer start line. A reach back to Sampson and once again the skipper was heard to murmur "Soldiers Course". He was right of course but there was another twist in the tale as we headed off to King from Sampson only to see Swiftsure Saga with her main down and sailing home. {a question asked on the jetty supplied the answer.} The main halyard broke.
That's life unfortunately and it left Anna and Wynella to chase each other to the line, but Wynella had sailed well all day and her handicap said everything. Over a minute in the lead on h/cap.
Over the line: Corella, Anna and Wynella.
On handicap: Wynella, Anna and Corella.
Saturday Sailing the 10th of February. The 5th Championship round.
Course one and 11 knots of sea breeze that didn't get much stronger.
Four boats hit the water and competed well for a much better result than last week where frankly no one should have been on the water. However Corella had Ian Weaver on the boat and as a result romped away with the lead and left the rest of the fleet to sort it out between themselves. However the handicap results were a lot better for Wynella, giving them a good handicap win with Aloha defying everyone with a handicap second and Les on his (almost) unsinkable Nerrima (2 bilge pumps) second over the line and third on handicap. The comments from Nerrima gave me the idea that they were actually enjoying the race as their foredecky Simon had everything under control.
Over the line: Corella, Nerrima, Wynella and Aloha
On handicap: Wynella, Aloha, Nerrima and Corella
Andy Lane continues to be off Wynella and we are hoping that he is ok.
Wednesday the 7th of February 2024 The Lyn Ruedavey Perpetual Trophy
Good one John! &
Saturday Sailing ..... seriously?
We hung about the start line in a sleepy sou easter that came and went and wandered into the north for a while. Eventually an AP was hung out as we watched as the river filled in from the bottom and finally the breeze arrived a few minutes later. There were half a dozen of us on the water with our regular skipper co-opted over to help Lockie who was one short. Still it was a proving ground for us and with Phil as the helm we were under way.
We didn't do very well on the start and frankly I had the main way too tight to begin. The rest of the fleet just stormed away. So there we were, stone motherless and approaching Sampson knowing we would have The First Jindarra breathing bad air on us once we rounded the mark. So once we had settled the boat, we tacked away and took off in clear air. But in front of us an interesting battle was developing. Corella had taken the lead and close on their heels was John Wright and Anna. Yes they were sailing well and John certainly wasn't going to let Lockie out of his sight.
So the run to Print and back down to Addison was fair enough, but once the leaders were away, Les Brooker was next on the line and he was doing very well indeed staying ahead of Wynella and the Jin. Les was short a crew member today with Christina off the boat and two fellows working very hard had to do the job of three. Oh well, been there and had to do it.
Our job on Mariner was to sort ourselves out and then try to minimise the mistakes as we began the climb to Robins for the first time. Tack and tack dipping in and out of the main flow up the river, we eventually found ourselves on the Jin's tail and pushing them. The trick was to get around Robins quickly and hope that the Jin had a problem putting their pole in place. We were a little lucky and manged to get to the lead, but Colin was no slouch and successfully covered us with his sails on the down wind and got the lead back. Last again. But we were both catching up on Wynella.
Ahead of our battle, Anna was still on Corella's tail and Les was sailing his own race in the middle, successfully keeping the pace going. I will note that Nerrima wasn't pumping as much water as she was last week, so I guess that Les had done a good job with the Sikaflex over the last few days. But back to the racing and our job was to get ahead of The Jin. Which we finally did on the second lap managing to get one up on them on the climb up the wind to Robins again. We had rounded Addison with good height and worked our way up to the top mark again with a decent run that nearly had us making the mark in one, but we were still chasing Wynella.
Down to Como this time and make our way across to the outer start line with both of falling down below the mark, it just was a case of how much you had to recover and we made a few yards on that one. Around we went and a pole down to Sampson. which had us sitting above them and in front. The next task was to keep that lead and move on toward Les on Nerrima but first we had to hold ourselves in front of Wynella who was pushing hard to get inside us after Sampson. Trying hard too! Eventually we got the better of them and they dropped back.
Holding on for the cross to King, we tacked with the mark pretty much on the nose as was the breeze and made our way around for a rollicking ride across the breeze to Print with the helm up around Phil's ear for a second until the main sheet was eased a little. It was quick. A look across to the leaders and John Wright was still fairly close on David Locke's transom and Les was safe in third place. But we had improved our chances. So around Print and away to Como and then Thelma as we watched the results for the leaders and blow me down, Anna picked up the fabulous John Wright lift and grew ever closer to Corella as they approached the line. But it wasn't to be and Lockie took the win with Anna 21 seconds later. Good sailing John and crew.
Over the line: Corella, Anna and Nerrima.
On handicap and for the Lyn Ruedavey memorial trophy, Anna, Nerrima and Wynella.
Saturday Sailing. 19 knots - SSW Course 1 It settled 22 knots on the base with 28-30 in the gusts.
Two boats began and well done to both Aloha and Nerrima. Nerrima retired around Applecross with the boat taking on water seriously as the rig was straining the hull. There were reports that the first three planks on either side were letting in the river and its quite likely the rear end may have been opening up a little. The decision was made as they approached Applecross with the eskies on the floor of the cabin now floating. They still had to cross the river to Hall Mark and then to try and find Sanders in the middle of the maelstrom that was the Swan river. Not too reluctantly, they turned for home and retired to get the club pump and drain the hundreds of litres that had found their way into the boat.
Les spent the next couple of days filling gaps and its hoped that he installs another bilge pump as the old one was just not coping.
Congratulations to Aloha for surviving and despite the fact that they were having huge problems in even tacking in the breeze, let alone what a gybe would have looked like. They finished the race and added another win to their consistency for the season.
Not too many photos today, I was on the main.
Good one John! &
Saturday Sailing ..... seriously?
We hung about the start line in a sleepy sou easter that came and went and wandered into the north for a while. Eventually an AP was hung out as we watched as the river filled in from the bottom and finally the breeze arrived a few minutes later. There were half a dozen of us on the water with our regular skipper co-opted over to help Lockie who was one short. Still it was a proving ground for us and with Phil as the helm we were under way.
We didn't do very well on the start and frankly I had the main way too tight to begin. The rest of the fleet just stormed away. So there we were, stone motherless and approaching Sampson knowing we would have The First Jindarra breathing bad air on us once we rounded the mark. So once we had settled the boat, we tacked away and took off in clear air. But in front of us an interesting battle was developing. Corella had taken the lead and close on their heels was John Wright and Anna. Yes they were sailing well and John certainly wasn't going to let Lockie out of his sight.
So the run to Print and back down to Addison was fair enough, but once the leaders were away, Les Brooker was next on the line and he was doing very well indeed staying ahead of Wynella and the Jin. Les was short a crew member today with Christina off the boat and two fellows working very hard had to do the job of three. Oh well, been there and had to do it.
Our job on Mariner was to sort ourselves out and then try to minimise the mistakes as we began the climb to Robins for the first time. Tack and tack dipping in and out of the main flow up the river, we eventually found ourselves on the Jin's tail and pushing them. The trick was to get around Robins quickly and hope that the Jin had a problem putting their pole in place. We were a little lucky and manged to get to the lead, but Colin was no slouch and successfully covered us with his sails on the down wind and got the lead back. Last again. But we were both catching up on Wynella.
Ahead of our battle, Anna was still on Corella's tail and Les was sailing his own race in the middle, successfully keeping the pace going. I will note that Nerrima wasn't pumping as much water as she was last week, so I guess that Les had done a good job with the Sikaflex over the last few days. But back to the racing and our job was to get ahead of The Jin. Which we finally did on the second lap managing to get one up on them on the climb up the wind to Robins again. We had rounded Addison with good height and worked our way up to the top mark again with a decent run that nearly had us making the mark in one, but we were still chasing Wynella.
Down to Como this time and make our way across to the outer start line with both of falling down below the mark, it just was a case of how much you had to recover and we made a few yards on that one. Around we went and a pole down to Sampson. which had us sitting above them and in front. The next task was to keep that lead and move on toward Les on Nerrima but first we had to hold ourselves in front of Wynella who was pushing hard to get inside us after Sampson. Trying hard too! Eventually we got the better of them and they dropped back.
Holding on for the cross to King, we tacked with the mark pretty much on the nose as was the breeze and made our way around for a rollicking ride across the breeze to Print with the helm up around Phil's ear for a second until the main sheet was eased a little. It was quick. A look across to the leaders and John Wright was still fairly close on David Locke's transom and Les was safe in third place. But we had improved our chances. So around Print and away to Como and then Thelma as we watched the results for the leaders and blow me down, Anna picked up the fabulous John Wright lift and grew ever closer to Corella as they approached the line. But it wasn't to be and Lockie took the win with Anna 21 seconds later. Good sailing John and crew.
Over the line: Corella, Anna and Nerrima.
On handicap and for the Lyn Ruedavey memorial trophy, Anna, Nerrima and Wynella.
Saturday Sailing. 19 knots - SSW Course 1 It settled 22 knots on the base with 28-30 in the gusts.
Two boats began and well done to both Aloha and Nerrima. Nerrima retired around Applecross with the boat taking on water seriously as the rig was straining the hull. There were reports that the first three planks on either side were letting in the river and its quite likely the rear end may have been opening up a little. The decision was made as they approached Applecross with the eskies on the floor of the cabin now floating. They still had to cross the river to Hall Mark and then to try and find Sanders in the middle of the maelstrom that was the Swan river. Not too reluctantly, they turned for home and retired to get the club pump and drain the hundreds of litres that had found their way into the boat.
Les spent the next couple of days filling gaps and its hoped that he installs another bilge pump as the old one was just not coping.
Congratulations to Aloha for surviving and despite the fact that they were having huge problems in even tacking in the breeze, let alone what a gybe would have looked like. They finished the race and added another win to their consistency for the season.
Not too many photos today, I was on the main.
Wednesday the 31st of January 2024
Too blxxdy Hot!
Well done to the mob on Anna.
Its rather hard to see an old friend stuck in the mud on a lovely sailing day and even worse when you see the fleet roaring past. No problems for the mob on Anna. They got the boat off and took after the rest of the fleet to sail hard and fast enough to get a close fourth over the line right behind Les Brooker on Nerrima who had done well enough on handicap to nail the first. Les was quite chuffed.
Of course you have to start a race and it was stinking hot, the only escape was to get onto the water pronto and with a pleasant 12 knots out of the sou west that gusted slightly, Mariner led the fleet across the line heading for Sampson and proceeded around the mark with the fleet cascading around the mark in a steady flow. 7 boats today with Colin Stevenson fronting with the boys and everyone else with full crews We could have almost put another boat out if Andrew Minto had thought about it. But he was helping Ernie on Wynella, who was helming in the absence of Glen and two others (all of whom were having royal problems {prostate gland issues}) Colin did own up to needing a navigator as they were 2 minutes late on the start line and began sailing a course two.... only to look back and go oh bugger.
However it was on the run back to Addison from Print that the first clash occurred with the H28 fleet meeting up with C fleet who had decided to cross our path as we barrelled down the wind. A bit of dodging was done, but Mariner got to Addison first. From then on it was straight strategy with Wynella and Corella tacking off and eventually we covered them going all the way almost to the channel. Swapping tacks we took off up the breeze and looking back we spied Corella going deep, but also saw Anna on the mud. Not the best look.
However the battle was afoot and on both crosses we were looking at both Swiftsure Saga and Corella trying to judge where we were in reality and of course Les and Nerrima were keeping up very well. Too late Swiftsure had gone deeper and picked us up and they were in front. Shortly after and muffled curses from the helm confirmed that Corella was in front of us and the rush to Robins had us preparing for a swift rounding, only to have Nerrima coming in on starboard, once we had made it around and a quick swerve being required.
Down to Addison yet again and while Nerrima wasn't about to overtake us, they were there alright. So around Addison and then back up to Robins again. Look back and there was John Wright who had recovered from his visit to the bank and was getting closer to Nerrima all the time. Nothing to worry about eh, Les? So around the top and set a starboard pole this time, aiming at Como with the skippers avowed attempt to make it in one shot. Well we were about half a knot slower than usual, but we made it.
Around we went and we thought we were catching up with the two in front and Bill wasn't going to let David through without a battle and protected his line all the time. In fact for the small lap, he was doing fine and had Corella at bay all the way to Thelma. Unfortunately, the well known H28 affinity for SS22's struck, just at the wrong time. Dave claimed to have had a premonition and had tacked off immediately after Thelma. But there was a meeting between the aforementioned SS22 & Swiftsure Saga and as its under protest (I believe) I can't and won't comment. Both boats took no more part in the racing and S.S.Saga retired from the race, losing what might have been a very well earned first and first place. No damage to SSS and a decent hole in the spacey.
Over the line: Corella, Mariner and Nerrima.
On handicap: Nerrima, Anna and Mariner.
To last weeks incident on the water at the turning mark: it was a SoPYC boat that centre punched the poor bugger. Or so the story goes. What the SoPYC boat was doing anywhere near the mark has yet to be determined.
Saturday was a non consistency race with a course 4 and 14 knots. Well done to Wynella and Aloha who took to the river and my hat off to Aloha who has utilised the handicap they have, to fend off Wynella yet again. I admire their persistence, but sooner or later they will be caught up with.
Too blxxdy Hot!
Well done to the mob on Anna.
Its rather hard to see an old friend stuck in the mud on a lovely sailing day and even worse when you see the fleet roaring past. No problems for the mob on Anna. They got the boat off and took after the rest of the fleet to sail hard and fast enough to get a close fourth over the line right behind Les Brooker on Nerrima who had done well enough on handicap to nail the first. Les was quite chuffed.
Of course you have to start a race and it was stinking hot, the only escape was to get onto the water pronto and with a pleasant 12 knots out of the sou west that gusted slightly, Mariner led the fleet across the line heading for Sampson and proceeded around the mark with the fleet cascading around the mark in a steady flow. 7 boats today with Colin Stevenson fronting with the boys and everyone else with full crews We could have almost put another boat out if Andrew Minto had thought about it. But he was helping Ernie on Wynella, who was helming in the absence of Glen and two others (all of whom were having royal problems {prostate gland issues}) Colin did own up to needing a navigator as they were 2 minutes late on the start line and began sailing a course two.... only to look back and go oh bugger.
However it was on the run back to Addison from Print that the first clash occurred with the H28 fleet meeting up with C fleet who had decided to cross our path as we barrelled down the wind. A bit of dodging was done, but Mariner got to Addison first. From then on it was straight strategy with Wynella and Corella tacking off and eventually we covered them going all the way almost to the channel. Swapping tacks we took off up the breeze and looking back we spied Corella going deep, but also saw Anna on the mud. Not the best look.
However the battle was afoot and on both crosses we were looking at both Swiftsure Saga and Corella trying to judge where we were in reality and of course Les and Nerrima were keeping up very well. Too late Swiftsure had gone deeper and picked us up and they were in front. Shortly after and muffled curses from the helm confirmed that Corella was in front of us and the rush to Robins had us preparing for a swift rounding, only to have Nerrima coming in on starboard, once we had made it around and a quick swerve being required.
Down to Addison yet again and while Nerrima wasn't about to overtake us, they were there alright. So around Addison and then back up to Robins again. Look back and there was John Wright who had recovered from his visit to the bank and was getting closer to Nerrima all the time. Nothing to worry about eh, Les? So around the top and set a starboard pole this time, aiming at Como with the skippers avowed attempt to make it in one shot. Well we were about half a knot slower than usual, but we made it.
Around we went and we thought we were catching up with the two in front and Bill wasn't going to let David through without a battle and protected his line all the time. In fact for the small lap, he was doing fine and had Corella at bay all the way to Thelma. Unfortunately, the well known H28 affinity for SS22's struck, just at the wrong time. Dave claimed to have had a premonition and had tacked off immediately after Thelma. But there was a meeting between the aforementioned SS22 & Swiftsure Saga and as its under protest (I believe) I can't and won't comment. Both boats took no more part in the racing and S.S.Saga retired from the race, losing what might have been a very well earned first and first place. No damage to SSS and a decent hole in the spacey.
Over the line: Corella, Mariner and Nerrima.
On handicap: Nerrima, Anna and Mariner.
To last weeks incident on the water at the turning mark: it was a SoPYC boat that centre punched the poor bugger. Or so the story goes. What the SoPYC boat was doing anywhere near the mark has yet to be determined.
Saturday was a non consistency race with a course 4 and 14 knots. Well done to Wynella and Aloha who took to the river and my hat off to Aloha who has utilised the handicap they have, to fend off Wynella yet again. I admire their persistence, but sooner or later they will be caught up with.
Wednesday the 24th of January 2024
No sailing today!
Racing abandoned.
It's one of those unfortunate moments in life where the sailing group decide not to go. We were actually rigged up and had the number two hanked on with the knowledge that it would be a wet one, but that was about it. We had a full crew and going out for a yacht was going to be a little challenging, but we had done worse before.
So we sat on the quarterdeck and watched as RP set their fleet loose, only to watch as one of their yachts managed to sink at the temporary turning mark they put out on a Wednesday. Did it justify our retirement? Possibly, but several SoPYC boats still went out anyway including Chris on Helios II flaunting a storm jib. Thanks mate!
Saturday the 20th was a club championship day and 5 boats took to the water with Corella fastest boat on the water, but Les Brooker on Nerrima did a great job to take the handicap win with Corella second and Wynella third. Aloha and Georgina joined them in the racing as well.
Finally, has anyone noted how far out the tide has been going recently? I took a bike ride on Thursday and stopped on the freeway cycle path a little short of Como jetty on the northern side. Take a look at this spread of photos going south to north.
No sailing today!
Racing abandoned.
It's one of those unfortunate moments in life where the sailing group decide not to go. We were actually rigged up and had the number two hanked on with the knowledge that it would be a wet one, but that was about it. We had a full crew and going out for a yacht was going to be a little challenging, but we had done worse before.
So we sat on the quarterdeck and watched as RP set their fleet loose, only to watch as one of their yachts managed to sink at the temporary turning mark they put out on a Wednesday. Did it justify our retirement? Possibly, but several SoPYC boats still went out anyway including Chris on Helios II flaunting a storm jib. Thanks mate!
Saturday the 20th was a club championship day and 5 boats took to the water with Corella fastest boat on the water, but Les Brooker on Nerrima did a great job to take the handicap win with Corella second and Wynella third. Aloha and Georgina joined them in the racing as well.
Finally, has anyone noted how far out the tide has been going recently? I took a bike ride on Thursday and stopped on the freeway cycle path a little short of Como jetty on the northern side. Take a look at this spread of photos going south to north.
Wednesday the 17th of January 2024
Colin joins the fray &
Getting in front and staying there.
The choice of a course one was a little puzzling but having looked at the various weather websites it was apparently a fair choice, but it did give the first boat around Martin + Weaver a pretty good chance.
Jindarra came out for a run today with Colin Stevenson (ex 14' sailor who graduated to SS27's and did very well) at the helm with the crew that Barry and Peter had assembled. Had never sailed an H28 in his life and did very well.
The breeze was never any more than 15 knots and the tussle at the start line was pretty interesting as the skip, as usual, had decided to go in there " balls to the wall". On time in time, we rolled over onto starboard and crossed the line at the box end forcing everyone to go below us. We were off to Martin - Weaver and the main and the trimmers had their jobs cut out to keep the rest off our transom. Swiftsure Saga and Jindarra were closest and Corella had to recover from being buried in the pack.
Around Martin and aim for Weaver with Bill on Swiftsure trying to run over us. We had the jib out by hand for that vital gybe and swung around the mark with Geoff Reason handling the foredeck with aplomb. Then the drag race down to Sampson with the tactics that Corella had taken showing good results. He'd gone high and then ran down the breeze unimpeded by the fleet. The boys on the Jin were doing well as was Swiftsure and the next adventure was the run to Print with a question as to a pole or not on the almost westerly. But first, around Sampson and then wait to see what Swiftsure would do. They tacked after a while, but we kept going for a lay line. Then we went and found ourselves looking across at Swiftsure who had tacked to come back to Print only to have let Corella slip through and take second place. So we knew who was going to be our main rival for the day.
Down to Addison and then up to Robins with a tight reach pretty much, with the mark on the nose most of the time. As usual Corella had gone that little bit deeper and the skip was sweating that Corella was going to out do him on the way. But there was enough of us to convince him that he was clear and we made it to Robins in one board. Hard work for the trimmers, but it got us there. Then down to Addison on another broad reach with the possibility of a leeward pole. Didn't need it and we watched as the rest of the fleet split into pairs in battle, though I did feel for Anna who clearly hadn't had a chance to have their bottom scrubbed post Christmas, come to think of it I don't think Les on Nerrima had either. But Wynella are pretty religious about scrubbing their hull and it should have done them well.
Up we went again to Robins and it was simply keeping an eye on Corella to keep him in check. He would and did push his boat that little bit higher using the scalloping technique and then looked as though he would push through us at Robins again, but some gentle coaxing by Geoff from the foredeck had the skip rise above him, forcing Lockie to go below and give us the room and edge at the mark. " Make it good on the mark" was the request from the skip. "Bang-rattle" and we were around with the winches purring as the sheets were brought in. Probably a bit too much, so a hurried ease got the headsail working well.
By this time, the betting was that they would shorten the course and so the preparation for the battle to the line was thought out and a port pole went out giving us a decent run down the hill. The pole was stowed once we reached Como and then we aimed the boat at the finish line as we could see the shortened course flags whipping in the breeze.
Over the line: Mariner, Corella and Swiftsure Saga.
On handicap: Mariner, Swiftsure Saga and Corella.
There was 10 seconds between Mariner and Corella and it reflected a great battle between the two boats.. Good sailing.
Saturday the 13th was a nice day apparently, with only two boats venturing out in the oppressive heat.
Les Brooker (Nerrima) took a win for the day over Andrew Minto's Aloha but even the lead of some 14 minutes and 40 odd seconds was just enough, with the handicap results telling us there was only 10 seconds in it. Les would have felt hardly done by, if that nearly 15 minutes hadn't been enough.
Oh, and Geoff Reason managed to rip the toe rail off one side of Nerrima. The timber that the screws were in had finally given up the ghost and Geoff's attempt to rescue the boat from drifting off the jetty turned into a gentle tumble on the finger jetty. Well done that man.
Colin joins the fray &
Getting in front and staying there.
The choice of a course one was a little puzzling but having looked at the various weather websites it was apparently a fair choice, but it did give the first boat around Martin + Weaver a pretty good chance.
Jindarra came out for a run today with Colin Stevenson (ex 14' sailor who graduated to SS27's and did very well) at the helm with the crew that Barry and Peter had assembled. Had never sailed an H28 in his life and did very well.
The breeze was never any more than 15 knots and the tussle at the start line was pretty interesting as the skip, as usual, had decided to go in there " balls to the wall". On time in time, we rolled over onto starboard and crossed the line at the box end forcing everyone to go below us. We were off to Martin - Weaver and the main and the trimmers had their jobs cut out to keep the rest off our transom. Swiftsure Saga and Jindarra were closest and Corella had to recover from being buried in the pack.
Around Martin and aim for Weaver with Bill on Swiftsure trying to run over us. We had the jib out by hand for that vital gybe and swung around the mark with Geoff Reason handling the foredeck with aplomb. Then the drag race down to Sampson with the tactics that Corella had taken showing good results. He'd gone high and then ran down the breeze unimpeded by the fleet. The boys on the Jin were doing well as was Swiftsure and the next adventure was the run to Print with a question as to a pole or not on the almost westerly. But first, around Sampson and then wait to see what Swiftsure would do. They tacked after a while, but we kept going for a lay line. Then we went and found ourselves looking across at Swiftsure who had tacked to come back to Print only to have let Corella slip through and take second place. So we knew who was going to be our main rival for the day.
Down to Addison and then up to Robins with a tight reach pretty much, with the mark on the nose most of the time. As usual Corella had gone that little bit deeper and the skip was sweating that Corella was going to out do him on the way. But there was enough of us to convince him that he was clear and we made it to Robins in one board. Hard work for the trimmers, but it got us there. Then down to Addison on another broad reach with the possibility of a leeward pole. Didn't need it and we watched as the rest of the fleet split into pairs in battle, though I did feel for Anna who clearly hadn't had a chance to have their bottom scrubbed post Christmas, come to think of it I don't think Les on Nerrima had either. But Wynella are pretty religious about scrubbing their hull and it should have done them well.
Up we went again to Robins and it was simply keeping an eye on Corella to keep him in check. He would and did push his boat that little bit higher using the scalloping technique and then looked as though he would push through us at Robins again, but some gentle coaxing by Geoff from the foredeck had the skip rise above him, forcing Lockie to go below and give us the room and edge at the mark. " Make it good on the mark" was the request from the skip. "Bang-rattle" and we were around with the winches purring as the sheets were brought in. Probably a bit too much, so a hurried ease got the headsail working well.
By this time, the betting was that they would shorten the course and so the preparation for the battle to the line was thought out and a port pole went out giving us a decent run down the hill. The pole was stowed once we reached Como and then we aimed the boat at the finish line as we could see the shortened course flags whipping in the breeze.
Over the line: Mariner, Corella and Swiftsure Saga.
On handicap: Mariner, Swiftsure Saga and Corella.
There was 10 seconds between Mariner and Corella and it reflected a great battle between the two boats.. Good sailing.
Saturday the 13th was a nice day apparently, with only two boats venturing out in the oppressive heat.
Les Brooker (Nerrima) took a win for the day over Andrew Minto's Aloha but even the lead of some 14 minutes and 40 odd seconds was just enough, with the handicap results telling us there was only 10 seconds in it. Les would have felt hardly done by, if that nearly 15 minutes hadn't been enough.
Oh, and Geoff Reason managed to rip the toe rail off one side of Nerrima. The timber that the screws were in had finally given up the ghost and Geoff's attempt to rescue the boat from drifting off the jetty turned into a gentle tumble on the finger jetty. Well done that man.