RM Winter Scratch Round 6

​With the cancellation of the State RM Championships this weekend, we schedulled in a round of Winter RM Scratch instead.

Lying in bed this morning, I was wondering when the Severe Weather Warning was going to come in to cancel the days sailing, but it didn't until later in the day for tomorrow.

Headed to the dam with not much expecation of sailing, but was surprised that the wind was not quite like it was at home, but still blowing a regular 18 or so knots, with a few gusts exceeding 40 through the day.

The five skippers who came along decided to sail in the very windy conditions, and got to work with setup and soon after, racing was under way.

All in C2 rigs early, with the exception of John Hall, who had a choice of C1 or C3. He initially chose his C1, and soon took on the C3 instead. After about 4 races, we all followed and suited up to C3 with the increase in wind from earlier. Ray and Rod changing to a B2 soon after.

Given the heavy weather, it was great to see no break downs, although a few sheets did loosen and I noticed some hooks on the forestay starting to get longer with the very high loads experienced - easily fixed at home.

Seven races were completed in the alloted time, with four sailors taking a win and Rod getting a second and third place during the day. Some very close racing, shown with two races to go and second, third and fourth all tied up. 

At the completion of the days racing, Kyle came out as the winner of the day, on 12 points, coming home very strong in the last two races.
Second place today went to Ray, just one behind on 13 points. Sailed very well, but a bit underpowered in the lulls in the last two races.
Third place today was John Hall on 17 Points. Had he not lucked out with a jib sheet getting stuck while well in front on race 6, we could have very likely had a three way tie for the round win this week.

An excellent days sailing, with awesome behavior on the water, especially given the heavy conditions. Penalties done without being prompted, generous space allowed between the boats to avoid potential heavy weather uncontrolled contacts.

Coming up

Wednesday is IOM Mid Week Handicap, button press at 11am. 

Next Sunday is IOM Scratch, button press at 10am.

Kyle