R7: Close to Buoys

First of the new year and wind looking like it had left us. But it stayed on, albeit light, and gave us a great night.

The Crew

John (Captain), Ian, Dave, Mark and Nick. A couple of lovely Stoke ales accompanied us out, but did not return.

Course 16

From the start line to Torpedo Buoy (S), Resolution Buoy (S), Bayswater Buoy (P), Westhaven Buoy (S), Stanley Buoy (S), to the finish line. 8.1 NM

The Start

We were early to the line and lost momentum. Bugger, it felt like we would be right there, but had to do a spin round. Not last over but not our best start by any means.

Progress

The light breeze had us going down the harbour at a good pace, with the outgoing tide helping. The bottom half of the course was good and we stayed with our competition. After rounding Resolution and heading back, we got overtaken as we tried to find some breeze further out in the harbour. Bayswater to Westhaven was a good reach, probably the best angle on the wind for us.

The Result

I think the reaching light wind favoured the lighter displacement and narrower boats and we came in 6th on handicap, breaking our run of podium finishes for the series.

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cheers, johnhs