R5: Summer is back

After missing the last week which was abandoned due to the high winds, we arrived at the boat aching to get out on the water. It had been a month since we were last out. The wind was light and we were hoping it would hang on for us. It did, and we had a fantastic evening sail. We didn't even have to put the nav lights on.

The Crew

John (Captain), Ian, Dave, and Mark.

Course 8

From the start line to Rough Rock Buoy (S), Bean Rock Buoy (S), Resolution Buoy (S), to the finish line. 9.3 NM

The Start

We were just a wee bit early so lost a bit of momentum on the line, but not a bad start.

Progress

Once we were under way we cracked a beer and trimmed for Rough Rock - familiar. The wind was not great but steady and we held on from the back as we made our way down the harbour to our first mark. A bit of goose-wing to the mark, and then round. And then headsail wrap... not too bad but let U-Choose go past. Now we were last in line, and struggling to stay high enough to pass the Bean Rock light-house. Around the buoy and heading up to Resolution, not quite able to make the mark, but good tacks ensured we didn't slip any further. The sail back up the harbour was just off the wind and we hit 9 knots, and happily had a Tuatara APA to celebrate.

The Beer

We enjoyed a nice Tuatara APA (Aotearoa Pale Ale). Nice choice Mark, well done!

The Result

Our top speed was again 9 knots, and average 5.6 knots. We still managed a second place, as our handicap continues to rise. We did have a little bit more in us, so all good for next week :-)

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cheers and all the best, johnhs