Saturday dawned with a light north easterly breeze. Not much breeze was forecast for the afternoon and aboard White Noise we questioned if it was worth racing. For us this would be our last ‘warm up’ before the Nationals in a couple of weeks time so we got rigged and motored down river to be greeted by Med (way) sailing conditions.
We found Saxon anchored off the entrance to Gillingham Marina – questionable choice of location we thought and we couldn’t quite work out the start line . . .
Race 1 underway and a shocking start aboard the mighty noise (we’re still blaming the line). Blue, red and the other white boat disappeared into the distance and somehow we got lifted to the windward mark rounding with the first couple of boats. Kites hoisted and tactical decisions made as to where to go to get the best tide advantage. A few questionable manoeuvres at the bottom mark but on we all went. Watersong managed to hold onto their initial lead and led the fleet home. They were followed by Red Dwarf and then White Noise.
Race 2 – the one where we said we must have a better start. This was not the case! Buried among a whole host of boats and struggling for clean air or more accurately struggling to cross the line! Watersong sailed off into the distance followed by White Noise and Red Dwarf.
Race 3 – all to play for here between us and Red Dwarf and the final race of the day we had been told. This time we must make a good start. A great start was made however we later found it was too good and we were OCS! Trying too hard.
Final results for the day:
1st – Watersong,
2nd – Red Dwarf,
3rd – BD2.
It was great to see Red Dwarf back out after a long sabbatical from Sonata racing. We know how much Rob loves Windward / Leeward racing (!) so Saturdays performances are even more creditable. We hope you are back to stay.
Huge shout out to ‘The Italians’ (and Rich) aboard Thistle. From beginner sailors at the start of last year to being competitive in the racing fleet. I know there are big things to come.
Thank you to the Team aboard Saxon for providing perfect sailing conditions!
For us aboard White Noise our next event is the Nationals in a couple of weeks time. We are looking forward to close racing against the 30 strong fleet with 5 other Medway boats.