DF95 Mid Week Handicap

We have had a marvellous summer if nice weather is what counts and today was no exception. Another sunny, blue-sky day with temperature 21 degrees. The wind was a bit undecided though with a sea breeze competing against a Northerly for most of the day, never above 5 knots, some very soft patches, never really leaving us totally becalmed, but swinging all over the compass. 

Our usual PRO Andrew Wardrop couldn’t make it as he is preparing the radio sailing exhibit for the wooden boat festival. All the best for this Andrew. The exhibition is always very well done and attracts a lot of interest to our sport. Peter Germaine was on hand this morning and stepped into the PRO’s position. Just as Peter left at lunch time Lisa Blackwood arrived and she and Rod Jackman officiated for the afternoon sharing the sailing of Rod’s boat. Thanks Rod, Lisa and Peter for your work today. I did think that today’s racing was conducted with great spirit and camaraderie.

Honourable mention today I award to my brother Al Short who won the first two races straight off the bat and has shown definite improvement since he started RC sailing about 6 months ago. There is definitely some sibling rivalry brewing! 

It is tempting to say that you needed good luck on a shifty day like today but when you look at the results sheet – the cream has risen, and the top end is dominated by our ‘gold standard’ skippers. Good skippers make their own luck! Today’s winner was Mr Consistency Buzzy Behrens. Second went to Jammy Jones who is back to somewhere near his best form and third place went to Ray Joyce with two race wins in his mix. Congratulations Buzzy, Jammy and Ray!

 COMING UP:
Today was our last Wednesday handicap sail for a while as the club focus is now on the National Championships. Our next Wednesday handicap sail will be on Feb 26th and will be for IOM's

This Sunday there will be scratch racing for A-Class (1:00 button-press))

The National Championships opens with a woodies invitation regatta on Tuesday 11th Feb (1:00 button-press)

The following day (Tuesday 12th) A-Classes will begin three days of competition.

There is going to be some great racing ahead. Even if you are not sailing in the Nationals make sure that you come out to watch and lend a hand if you can.
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Shorty