R6: Last race for 2016

The last race of the year had us hoping for a prize - and our division is very close when the handicaps are taken into account - excellent work from our race director and handicapper Margaret. We made a couple of mistakes and ended the night in fourth - however we did manage to score a spot prize, and the Christmas hamper! John Hamilton-Smith of Kerkira, winner of the gift basket from our wonderful sponsor New World Birkenhead! (also shown, anonymous sailing enthusiast).

The Crew

John (Captain), Dave, Mark and Nick.

Course 15

From the start line to North Head Buoy (S), Bean Rock Buoy (S), Torpedo Buoy (P), Resolution Buoy (S), Bayswater Buoy (P), to the finish line. 10.5NM. North Head bouy not Northern Leading - we had a little discussion about this and I found out later that so did others - not sure if we have had course 15 before.

The Start

In the box a minute late - we got delayed by the main halyard getting wrapped around the steaming light. Nice breeze though so we stayed with the fleet going down to North Head.

Progress

Once we were underway and heading for the Devonport side to get the best tide/current combination, the Captain called for a beer, and was handed a black lager from Garage Project called "Day of the Dead". It slipped down like silk knickers indeed.

Result

Just amazing how well our division is setting up for a fight - a mistake will punish anyone. We unfortunately had 2 - the drama at the start and then a poor rounding of Bean Rock Buoy which cost us the race in the end. Nice to know just how close it all is now - it is fantastic. So we ended forth.

Beverage Report

Garage Project for-the-win. Also had the TUATARA MOT EUREKA NZ PILSNER.
Merry Christmas

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Cheers, johnhs