RM Scratch Round 3

Five skippers competed in today’s racing, which began in A rig for the first four races before switching to B rig for the next four. The final two races were sailed in C rigs as squalls picked up.The early races were incredibly close, with four different winners in the first four races. The fifth skipper, though without a win, secured two seconds and a third in those four races - highlighting the tight competition.
Shifty winds kept everyone on their toes, with all skippers experiencing both strong moments and the frustration of unfavorable shifts.
Results

• Ray dominated the day with four wins and three seconds, finishing on 13 points to take first place.
  
• The battle for second was tight between Kyle (17 points) and Stu (18 points), with Kyle edging ahead by just one point.
  

Post-Racing & Pack-Up
Racing wrapped up at 1 PM, and the team efficiently packed up just before the rain arrived. A big thanks to everyone who helped with the rescue boat and equipment. However, we should ensure more hands assist in returning gear to the shed—today, Ray was left to handle this alone in the rain, which isn’t ideal. Let’s all chip in to the end next time!
Given the small number of regular participants (just five skippers today out of 40+ members), the Scratch Series will be a 2025 series instead of separate Summer and Winter events due to the continued lack of numbers to support these scratch days. The next scheduled round is on 28th September. This adjustment accounts for the busy schedule of Ranking Events and the challenge of dedicating a full sail day to such a small fleet. Hopefully, participation will grow in the future!

Upcoming Events

• Wednesday (17th April): IOM Mid-Week Handicap at the dam – button press at 11 AM.
  
• Easter Sunday (21st April): No racing scheduled.
  

Special Session – Anzac Day (25th April)
In preparation for the A-Class State Championships (3rd–4th May), I’d like to organize an afternoon tuning and racing session at Montrose Bay, starting at 1 PM. If at least four other sailors are interested, we’ll go ahead—please let me know if you’d like to join!

Kyle