Richmond Summer Series Race 8: High Temperature

Yes, high temperatures - of the squealing thermostat kind... An interesting start to the evening for Race 8 of the Richmond Yacht Club Summer Series Wednesday Night racing - we were lucky to make it to the start. It appears there was a blockage in the cooling system, and it caused the thermostat to alarm. We pulled up alongside one of the piers and diagnosed the problem, got it sorted and continued on -

Auckland City like a battleship on the horizon. The evening was a bit cloudy, with periods of sun - and a 5-10 knot SW wind.

The Crew

John (Captain) Ian, and Dave, and new recruit SamHS - Mark had the night off.

Course 9

Down to Rough Rock Buoy (which was now in place - not like last week when it was non-existant), Orakei, Resolution and home, against a reasonably strong outgoing tide.

The Start

With our late arrival to the course, we went straight into the box. A slow ride down the line on starboard - but with the tide taking us sideways, we opted to tack back to run the other way - on port haha! All good though, and we got away in the middle of the fleet.

Progress

The course was pretty straight forward - a big loop - we had a good race, hoping to hold on back up the channel to the finish-line, but had to tack up near the bridge as the wind wavered S and SW sometimes giving us hope, and then knocking us north.

The Result

Well it was back to the clubhouse and a cold beer and hot burger - always welcomed! And also welcome was a 3rd on handicap. I must say that although our tacks were a bit rusty - the crew 'sailed' the whole race, being very attentive to the conditions - so well done.

johnhs