IOM Mid Week Handicap

There were reflections on the dam when we arrived this morning but a light Northerly of about 4 or 5 knots soon arrived and we enjoyed several scratch races before the IOM handicap series started. Ricky Price and Ian Hey dominated these races and the rest of us were hoping that they had ‘got it out of their system’ by the time that our series started.
It was a terrific day for sailing and while the wind did moderate throughout the day and the last couple of races had some calm patches we were still able to complete the full complement of ten races. The bright sunshine and luxurious 20 degree temperature made the day a real winner. When travelling home I noticed that a light sea breeze had made its way up as far up as Sandy Bay and I could not help but think that the worst of winter is behind us.
Alan Short and John Penman have each recently purchased themselves V11’s and today was the first outing for them both. These boats both looked really lovely. (See photo below). The quality of the fleet at our club is quite amazing. Both boats sailed well today. John finished the day with a 2nd, a 3rd, and a 4th on his scoresheet showing the potential that we all know he has. Alan had a really good day out with three race wins and a 2nd place. His first race win came in the first race of the day - now that’s a good way to launch a new boat!
Phil Jackman could not sail today due to recent knee surgery but took on the PRO’s job. He was assisted by Lisa Blackwood who after sailing more than 60 races within the week decided to have a day off. The two set great courses and did well to make sure that we finished the race program in the dying breeze. Lisa also spent time helping rig and tune the new boats and offered valuable coaching to skippers today as well. Thanks for your efforts Phil and Lisa - a generous display of club spirit by you both.
Alan’s efforts earned him third place overall today, while second went to the consistently performing Andrew Wardrop, but the day belonged to Ian Hey. After performing well in the scratch races Bodge continued in the handicap series - winning two races and nothing worse than 4th after discards were taken. It is a really welcome return to form for him and great to see him sailing with such confidence. Congratulations Alan, Andrew and Bodge!
Next week we have a scheduled IOM long distance handicap. We might need to sail for a little longer to complete a significant number of races so come prepared for a finish about 3:00. And…..the club will be providing BBQ lunch on the day!


Coming up:
Sunday: RM State Regatta at Risdon Brook Dam. (10:15 briefing for a 10:30 button press.) Enter on-line
               If anyone would like to be PRO for the day, please let Kyle or Ray know. The Marbleheads are very much self managed and relaxed, so the PRO job will not be onerous or demanding.

Next Wednesday: Long distance IOM handicap sailing with BBQ lunch at Risdon Brook Dam. (11:00 button press)
Shorty