IOM Mid Week Handicap

There was a nice Northerly of 10-15 knots blowing down the dam when we arrived this morning, but as the day proceeded it became variable and gusty. The prevailing Northerly dropped to less than 4 knots, sometimes nothing at all but often it was punctuated with gusts of up to 15 knots from the North-West and South-West together with sprinkles of rain. On days like today you need both skill and luck, and both in good measure.
 
Race 5 saw a blanket finish when a light Southerly swept the back of the fleet up to the leaders right at the finish line. It was just as well that both Lisa and Graeme were vigilant and on the finish line to sort out the finishing order. Lisa had her new A-class in action again today. It looked beautiful on the water- A-Class yachts do. She should be ready for the weekend’s championship.
 
It was good to have Peter Webberley and Andrew Price joining the Wednesday group today. Both scored race wins too!
 
As far as the overall positions went; Ray Joyce finished third today. Not a bad result too, as his handicap meant that he began the day giving even his nearest competitor 20 seconds head-start.
 
I managed second place – the two discards helped my cause quite a lot.
 
And it was Wayne Behrens who stole the day with consistent sailing and a couple of race wins in the mix. Congratulations Buzzy!
 
COMING UP:
 
Saturday and Sunday: A-Class State Championships Montrose. Saturday briefing at 10:15 for a 10:30 button. Helpers and spectators are welcome!
Next Wednesday: IOM handicap racing at the dam. 11:00 button.
 
John S