Trophy night & Racers christmas party 2010
Liane Kern of Crantini
Trophy night eased the martin fleet into the season of hot rum.
The Fleet 2 Championship half hull trophy was back in circulation. This year the event was held at Cow Bay with all the fleet2 boats in attendance. Liane Kern of Crantini was not only the top fleet 2 boat but won the regatta overall. Roger of Maptown stacked the table with silver, and showed us that consistancy and participation pays, he was awarded the gorgeous Cadboro plate (top RTB div 2 boat) and Martin242 Winter One Design trophy. This year the ladies in both fleets covered the trophy rainbow. First fleet 2 would like to congratulate Fleet 1's Loree Christianson of Watergirl for her accomplishments (check out www.http://www.m242fleetone.org/ for fleet 1's trophy event) Loree also won Women and Wind regatta here in fleet 2. On the other side of the trophy rainbow, the very coveted Commodores Cup of Confusion was awarded to Liz Balderston of King Julian, I hope she will write an account of the incident for us. Min of Mine was the first recipient of the Biggest Bloody Blunder award (story under Cow Bay regatta). Big thanks to Chris Bligh and Richard Spooner for introducing the award to the fleet and joining us for trophy night. I would also like to thank Roger of Maptown and Leah of Min of Mine for their help polishing all the trophies, and the evening wouldn't have been possible without the excellent announcing work of Jeremy Smith.
The Fleet 2 Championship half hull trophy was back in circulation. This year the event was held at Cow Bay with all the fleet2 boats in attendance. Liane Kern of Crantini was not only the top fleet 2 boat but won the regatta overall. Roger of Maptown stacked the table with silver, and showed us that consistancy and participation pays, he was awarded the gorgeous Cadboro plate (top RTB div 2 boat) and Martin242 Winter One Design trophy. This year the ladies in both fleets covered the trophy rainbow. First fleet 2 would like to congratulate Fleet 1's Loree Christianson of Watergirl for her accomplishments (check out www.http://www.m242fleetone.org/ for fleet 1's trophy event) Loree also won Women and Wind regatta here in fleet 2. On the other side of the trophy rainbow, the very coveted Commodores Cup of Confusion was awarded to Liz Balderston of King Julian, I hope she will write an account of the incident for us. Min of Mine was the first recipient of the Biggest Bloody Blunder award (story under Cow Bay regatta). Big thanks to Chris Bligh and Richard Spooner for introducing the award to the fleet and joining us for trophy night. I would also like to thank Roger of Maptown and Leah of Min of Mine for their help polishing all the trophies, and the evening wouldn't have been possible without the excellent announcing work of Jeremy Smith.
GPS race replays for the 2010 racing season thanks to Maptown.com
Link to the replays www.maptown.com/roger
Races and instructions are listed, if you want your boat to be included (must race div2), bring your GPS with the track log clear and a bottle of rum to Roger, and you're set. - Tara
Ok, actually I will do it without the rum bribe. - Roger
Races and instructions are listed, if you want your boat to be included (must race div2), bring your GPS with the track log clear and a bottle of rum to Roger, and you're set. - Tara
Ok, actually I will do it without the rum bribe. - Roger
Thermopylae Regatta Oct 1st & 2nd 2010 results
Ending the summer with a tight 10 boat one design fleet!
"Two Vancouver teams made the trip over to Victoria to vie for the Royal Victoria Yacht Club’s Thermopylae Regatta Crown. The usual suspects (offenders) of Team Daisy transplanted their Royal derrieres on to King Julian meanwhile the recent Prince of the Summer Hummer Michael Clements teamed up on Kermit. They were faced with competition from eight other boats including the new Royal Vic club boats now in excellent order and being used for lessons, racing and general charter. Unusually light winds had Paul Ullibarri working like Cinderella to keep the races rolling ... but he did just that and managed to get 4 races off by the end of saturday with King Julian in 3rd, Starpoint in 2nd and Maptown in 1st.
Saturday night was an evening of Teutonic Titwillowing in form of yodeling at the Octoberfest party. Many participants thigh slapped the night away dancing just like Ludwig and Teresa to the sounds of the Bavarian accordion. A big effort was made by quite a few teams to authenticate traditional Germanic dress but with a nautical twist - Mylarhosen!
Sunday had people shaking the Steins off and making their way out to the race course to be greeted by glassy waters. The PRO in true court jester fashion went into sequence for all divisions at the same time. King Julian responded as only a King can, by cracking their outboard into life at the gun and powering through the fleet to take a commanding lead. Eventually the race was abandoned and enough wind filled in to complete a day of racing. By the end of the day Kermit ( Historic Hull # 1) finished in third, Maptown 2nd and King Julian 1st. Chris Bligh, Richard Spooner, Margot Bell and Darryl Fleugel were on their knees to be anointed as Thermopylae Kings (and maybe more than one a Queen).
The crew of King Julian would like to thank everyone from Fleet 2 for their hospitality and to Royal Victoria Yacht Club for running an excellent regatta, Octoberfest and the divine prime rib." Richard Spooner King Julian #149
All the photos below are courtesy of Andrew Madding, To order photo's contact Andrew at bowshot@shaw.ca
Link to all the Martin242 Thermopayle regatta photos by Andrew Madding visit: Photos
"Two Vancouver teams made the trip over to Victoria to vie for the Royal Victoria Yacht Club’s Thermopylae Regatta Crown. The usual suspects (offenders) of Team Daisy transplanted their Royal derrieres on to King Julian meanwhile the recent Prince of the Summer Hummer Michael Clements teamed up on Kermit. They were faced with competition from eight other boats including the new Royal Vic club boats now in excellent order and being used for lessons, racing and general charter. Unusually light winds had Paul Ullibarri working like Cinderella to keep the races rolling ... but he did just that and managed to get 4 races off by the end of saturday with King Julian in 3rd, Starpoint in 2nd and Maptown in 1st.
Saturday night was an evening of Teutonic Titwillowing in form of yodeling at the Octoberfest party. Many participants thigh slapped the night away dancing just like Ludwig and Teresa to the sounds of the Bavarian accordion. A big effort was made by quite a few teams to authenticate traditional Germanic dress but with a nautical twist - Mylarhosen!
Sunday had people shaking the Steins off and making their way out to the race course to be greeted by glassy waters. The PRO in true court jester fashion went into sequence for all divisions at the same time. King Julian responded as only a King can, by cracking their outboard into life at the gun and powering through the fleet to take a commanding lead. Eventually the race was abandoned and enough wind filled in to complete a day of racing. By the end of the day Kermit ( Historic Hull # 1) finished in third, Maptown 2nd and King Julian 1st. Chris Bligh, Richard Spooner, Margot Bell and Darryl Fleugel were on their knees to be anointed as Thermopylae Kings (and maybe more than one a Queen).
The crew of King Julian would like to thank everyone from Fleet 2 for their hospitality and to Royal Victoria Yacht Club for running an excellent regatta, Octoberfest and the divine prime rib." Richard Spooner King Julian #149
All the photos below are courtesy of Andrew Madding, To order photo's contact Andrew at bowshot@shaw.ca
Link to all the Martin242 Thermopayle regatta photos by Andrew Madding visit: Photos
Oktoberfest was the theme for the after racing party of Thermopayle regatta.
The tradition lives on, thanks to the Roast Beef and Jugs... of beer.
Maple Bay Regatta Sept. 4th-5th Results
Labour Day weekend spent racing and swinging to the music of the 50's.
Maptown battled it out for the win in the tricky waters of Maple Bay / Samsun Narrows. ZoomZoom, Blackaddar and Min of Mine enjoyed tight racing, fantastic food & a great 50's party, all thanks to the lovely hospitality of the Maple Bay yacht club volunteers. Mark this regatta on your calender for next year!
photo: Blackaddar boys in good windward form.
Maptown battled it out for the win in the tricky waters of Maple Bay / Samsun Narrows. ZoomZoom, Blackaddar and Min of Mine enjoyed tight racing, fantastic food & a great 50's party, all thanks to the lovely hospitality of the Maple Bay yacht club volunteers. Mark this regatta on your calender for next year!
photo: Blackaddar boys in good windward form.
Maple Bay regatta celebrated 50 years with a flippin fabulous 50's party
How could we pass up a theme like that.. Christine, Naomi, Leah and Tara danced the night away, and raced the next day in poodle skirts.
Ladies love Martin's.. Results
Women & Wind Regatta 2010. I can’t think of a better way to spend a lovely Saturday in August than with a wonderful group of women sailors! Racing is never possible without a race committee, and this year the guys outdid themselves, holding 7 square races in winds that shifted more than 180 degrees. Jeremy Smith was our PRO with help from Larry McFadden and Simon Fitzsimmons. Roger Nelson covered all corners of the bay in the mark boat with the strong arm of Mike Jarrot pulling up hundreds of feet of anchor line. Results were even posted on the web before the racers hit the dock. We all appreciate the hard work!
This year 7 competitive boats participated in the regatta. Margaret Long in her Cal 20 Long Shot placed 3rd, winning 3 of the 7 races with the excellent crew work of Louise Anstey and Gail Pohl. The Martin 242 Min girls placed 2nd with Tara Smith, Leah Mathewson, Naomi McKay and Christine Eyres. 1st place was Loree Christianson from KYC with a great team including Pat, Jodie and Kelly. Loree owns the Martin242 “WaterGirl” and races in the very competitive Vancouver Fleet 1. One of the newly acquired club owned Martin’s was proven fast by active racers Marri Todd and Amanda Davies, with Judith Neville joining them and bringing much experience form her regular position on “Whippet”, a very competitive Martin 242 in Fleet 1.
Some of the women racers have been a little hard on their equipment this year and almost kept 2 Martins from racing in this event. Min of Mine rendered her rudder useless and gashed her hull at Cow Bay regatta, and Liz Balderston lost her mast on the way to RIPS race week… after A little begging and borrowing from each other, both were able to race.
King Julian is the latest Martin 242 to join our fleet. Liz Balderston has been a long time member of RVYC and although she lives in Kelowna she keeps her very enviable Martin 242 at the club, and traveling out for all the major regattas! Never having sailed together before, the very skilled crew of Kate Foster, Korena Diller and Kathy Kushner from “Woodstock” Fleet 1, had a great time and showed us all how to execute one heck of a great port tack start!
Ghost Dancer skippered by regular crew member Janice Brown probably had the toughest conditions with all the pesky Martin 242s not giving an ounce of clean air. Excellent boat handling by Jeanne Page, Wendy Harris and Stacy Louttit made for a very close 4th place finish!
Andrew Madding photographed the racing and provided a great slide show and very sought after prizes. The top 3 boats were also treated to prizes from artist Jill Louise Campbell of Salt Spring Island www.jlcgallery.com Supper was enjoyed by all in the Main lounge. Sharon and her staff did an amazing job of organizing the orders and keeping the glasses full. Bejeweled regatta polo shirts were a hit with the ladies and men. Tara Smith
Our next women’s sailing event is the McBride Trophy regatta, date and format TBA. If you would like to receive emails about Women’s Sailing events contact Tara Smith, the women’s sailing rep at womenandwind@gmail.com
Cow Bay Regatta August 1st long weekend! Results
Fleet 2's Crantini wins Cow Bay regatta 2010.
Every Fleet 2 Martin participated in the regatta this year, and many more made the trip from Fleet 1. With lots of wind on Saturday it made for an exciting event... Regatta report thanks to Alex Fox of Crantini.
The art of sailing - Playing the inside by: Sailing writer Alex Fox
Playing the inside of the favored side of a race course on the upwind leg has its risks and rewards. Making it pay off can require patience and a little bit of luck. Recent regatta experiences have led me to the conclusion that it’s really viable strategy, but there are a few things that need to happen if this particular plan is to be successful. Here’s a rundown of recent experience at Cow Bay regatta and some of the lessons learned.
Cow Bay is certainly one of my favorite regatta venues and this year I was really looking forward to the competition in the Martin 242 fleet. Historically the racing there features windward leeward courses, set close to shore, and the weather legs invariably involve some short tacking up the beach. There are the two typical reasons for this: number one is the geographic lift on starboard tack close to the shore and the second is some current benefit or relief closer to shore. Sure enough, soon after the first start signal, we were tacking onto port and headed for the beach. We found ourselves in amongst the lead group of boats and we were surviving, just barely. Our speed seemed to be in the ballpark with the frontrunners, but we were having trouble with our tacks. I suppose this wasn’t too surprising, since our primary jib trimmer was new to racing Martins. The timing it takes to slam the jib home before it fills and the mechanics of moving across the boat, takes some practice. Unfortunately I wasn’t taking this into account and I found myself getting a little bit frustrated and distracted. Net result was poor steering and the inevitable slide back into the fleet. Mixing it up just wasn’t working for us and it was about that point that I realized we needed to make a change in our strategy. Maintaining the status quo would only have resulted in us getting swallowed up deeper and deeper, so that was quickly ruled out. The knee-jerk reaction in cases like this is often to abandon the favored side in a random search of more wind, a shift, or other such miracles. That seemed a little desperate since this was after all only the first beat of the first race. The more sensible option seemed to be trying to limit our tacks to fewer than our immediate competition, while staying in touch with the favored side. A few interesting things began to happen as a result of this. Number one was that I began to steer better and the boat was going faster. Number two, the crew were able to settle into their roles because of less pressure. Our tacks improved due to more setup time and we could choose to tack in the lane we wanted. It was easier to focus on the best pressure or a favorable shift, and things began to work out. These factors, combined with a bit of good fortune, found us in place third around the weather mark. We picked up one boat on the run and were threatening the lead at the beginning of the last beat. Again we were drawn into short tacking the shore and into a tacking duel with the lead boat. It didn’t take long to figure out that we were once again coming out on the short end of the stick. We were able to hang onto second but challenging for the lead was another thing all together.
So, a satisfying start to the regatta but some questions remained about the best way to approach the weather legs and lots of unanswered questions for race two. Was the strategy of limiting our tacks a good one, or did we just get lucky? Could we get our tacking to the level we needed to compete at the top level? Was the crew planning to mutiny and refuse to sail, if I didn’t shut up and let them do their jobs? These questions and more would likely be answered in race two. The pressure was certainly on, as we approached our second start. The committee boat end was favored by a considerable amount, say ten degrees. Combined with the draw of the beach, pretty much the entire fleet was stacked up at the committee end with forty seconds to go, everyone was early with sails luffing. Our plan was to start with speed to leeward of the pile up. Hopefully get bow out and be able to tack for shore soon after the gun. Keeping with the strategy of limiting our tacks, we wanted a little space to allow us to put the bow down and sail fat and fast on port tack. Another consideration was that we wanted room and time to setup for either a lee bow or a dip on the boats coming off the shore. This strategy at first glance may seem a bit defeatist, but it was part of our overall strategy to be in the top three or four boats around the weather mark. The allure of the shore was like crack to an addict, as one by one the fleet tacked onto port and headed in. We were the last to tack and from our vantage point, it was clear that the early in boats were doing well. We had good speed and clear air, so I wasn’t unhappy with our position. As the leaders began to tack off the shore, they looked pretty good. It looked like the lead boat might cross us by two to three boat lengths. As we converged, our only option was to tack in underneath and slightly bow out. Soon they were peeling off back into the shore again and we extended for another five boatlengths before tacking. This lead group was still looking pretty strong as we all headed back towards the shore on port. However, we had made up ground on the second group of three or four boats, so the plan seemed to be working alright. The trailing group of boats were also on the shore side, but they had even less opportunity to be able to take advantage of the shift or the current due to disturbed air and extra tacks while fighting for a breath of clean air. Even amongst the three leaders there was a certain amount of messing each other up going on. The third place boat was now starting to fall back to us as they persisted in chasing the shore advantage. The above scenario repeated itself several times up the beat and we were happy to remain in contact with the leaders. Eventually we were able to cross the third place boat and consolidated our gains to round in the top three one more time. The idea of hanging in there while not getting within ten boat-lengths of the favored shore seems impossible, but it worked, so let’s evaluate the possible reasons why.
1) Stacked up start line: With the bulk of the fleet going for the favored end, what happens is that only one or two boats will actually get the great start. Even then, they may be advantaged by position only and not actually up to full speed when the gun goes. The rest of the boats are in a congested pack, slowing each other with dirty air. By starting a little away from the mess we were able to hit the line at full speed, getting a little jump, more than making up for the fact that we were the last to tack onto port.
2) Clear unimpeded lane into shore: Avoiding heavy traffic meant we didn’t have boats trying to squeeze us all the time. We were sailing at a higher average by being in clear air with the ability to foot fast.
3) Fewer tacks: We were able to stay in clear air for the majority of the leg. This gave us lots of time to prepare when we had to tack. We weren’t hell bent on getting to the shore, meaning fewer tacks minimizing losses.
4) Outside the melee: Being just out of the fray was a bit like watching a sh*t fight as opposed to being in the middle of it. This different perspective made it easier to see what was really paying off and what wasn’t. This meant less stress, more focus and probably less energy being used as well.
As the second race progressed the wind built into the mid-twenties making for a fantastic downwind leg. After some searching for the leeward mark, we maintained our third place for the final slog to the finish. Fortunately for us the two leaders insisted on bouncing us back out every time we tried to make our way to the shore. After two or three tries the path of least resistance was calling our name loud and clear. Each extra tack was taking its toll on the crew so it was an easy call to put the traveller down and just give er for the pin end of the line. This had turned into a two hundred yard drag race for all the marbles. We’re getting closer to the line and also experiencing a gradual lift. Now we were just laying the pin and there was no good reason to tack. Nothing to do but hike hard and keep her flat as we’re down to three boat lengths from the line. There were still no horns, so the other boats hadn’t crossed yet. Two boat lengths, hike harder, one boat length and horn. Wow, that was us! Glancing over my shoulder, the two leaders were well to windward, but because they’d put in a couple of extra tacks we’d gotten bow out on them and just managed to pip them at the favored end of the line. Nice work!
We continued to use the play the inside of the favored side strategy throughout the rest of the regatta and it generally served us well. There were of course a few occasions when the strategy was a break even or even a losing proposition. In order to minimize this we needed to keep an eye on a few things.
1) Equal or greater pressure: There were definitely occasions when the shore was favored but there were also times when the inshore boats would experience wind holes or lulls. The pressure off the shore tended to be steadier. This made up for the inshore current and shift advantage at times.
2) Less traffic: Fortunately we were mostly by ourselves in this strategy and that made it easier to keep the boat going. If more boats had joined us it may have been more difficult to make it pay off.
3) Counting on the extra tacks: If the inshore boats indeed put in a greater number of tacks, some of them down speed, then we were OK. When the inshore boats sailed efficiently they could realize the benefits and we were bound to lose some distance to the leaders.
Cow Bay is but one venue and on the long windward leeward one design courses you’ll inevitably be doing lots of tacks. In this particular case we were able to tailor our overall strategy to our strengths and weaknesses as a crew, by limiting our tacks and maximizing our boat speed potential. It wasn’t a Hail Mary approach, when things weren’t working out, but a conscious adjustment to the racing conditions. So next time you’re having a difficult time competing, maybe take a look at making a subtle change in your mindset and strategy. Look at the pros and cons of any changes you make and reevaluate as the racing progresses based on real information and results. Good sailing and I’ll see you on the water.
Cow Bay is certainly one of my favorite regatta venues and this year I was really looking forward to the competition in the Martin 242 fleet. Historically the racing there features windward leeward courses, set close to shore, and the weather legs invariably involve some short tacking up the beach. There are the two typical reasons for this: number one is the geographic lift on starboard tack close to the shore and the second is some current benefit or relief closer to shore. Sure enough, soon after the first start signal, we were tacking onto port and headed for the beach. We found ourselves in amongst the lead group of boats and we were surviving, just barely. Our speed seemed to be in the ballpark with the frontrunners, but we were having trouble with our tacks. I suppose this wasn’t too surprising, since our primary jib trimmer was new to racing Martins. The timing it takes to slam the jib home before it fills and the mechanics of moving across the boat, takes some practice. Unfortunately I wasn’t taking this into account and I found myself getting a little bit frustrated and distracted. Net result was poor steering and the inevitable slide back into the fleet. Mixing it up just wasn’t working for us and it was about that point that I realized we needed to make a change in our strategy. Maintaining the status quo would only have resulted in us getting swallowed up deeper and deeper, so that was quickly ruled out. The knee-jerk reaction in cases like this is often to abandon the favored side in a random search of more wind, a shift, or other such miracles. That seemed a little desperate since this was after all only the first beat of the first race. The more sensible option seemed to be trying to limit our tacks to fewer than our immediate competition, while staying in touch with the favored side. A few interesting things began to happen as a result of this. Number one was that I began to steer better and the boat was going faster. Number two, the crew were able to settle into their roles because of less pressure. Our tacks improved due to more setup time and we could choose to tack in the lane we wanted. It was easier to focus on the best pressure or a favorable shift, and things began to work out. These factors, combined with a bit of good fortune, found us in place third around the weather mark. We picked up one boat on the run and were threatening the lead at the beginning of the last beat. Again we were drawn into short tacking the shore and into a tacking duel with the lead boat. It didn’t take long to figure out that we were once again coming out on the short end of the stick. We were able to hang onto second but challenging for the lead was another thing all together.
So, a satisfying start to the regatta but some questions remained about the best way to approach the weather legs and lots of unanswered questions for race two. Was the strategy of limiting our tacks a good one, or did we just get lucky? Could we get our tacking to the level we needed to compete at the top level? Was the crew planning to mutiny and refuse to sail, if I didn’t shut up and let them do their jobs? These questions and more would likely be answered in race two. The pressure was certainly on, as we approached our second start. The committee boat end was favored by a considerable amount, say ten degrees. Combined with the draw of the beach, pretty much the entire fleet was stacked up at the committee end with forty seconds to go, everyone was early with sails luffing. Our plan was to start with speed to leeward of the pile up. Hopefully get bow out and be able to tack for shore soon after the gun. Keeping with the strategy of limiting our tacks, we wanted a little space to allow us to put the bow down and sail fat and fast on port tack. Another consideration was that we wanted room and time to setup for either a lee bow or a dip on the boats coming off the shore. This strategy at first glance may seem a bit defeatist, but it was part of our overall strategy to be in the top three or four boats around the weather mark. The allure of the shore was like crack to an addict, as one by one the fleet tacked onto port and headed in. We were the last to tack and from our vantage point, it was clear that the early in boats were doing well. We had good speed and clear air, so I wasn’t unhappy with our position. As the leaders began to tack off the shore, they looked pretty good. It looked like the lead boat might cross us by two to three boat lengths. As we converged, our only option was to tack in underneath and slightly bow out. Soon they were peeling off back into the shore again and we extended for another five boatlengths before tacking. This lead group was still looking pretty strong as we all headed back towards the shore on port. However, we had made up ground on the second group of three or four boats, so the plan seemed to be working alright. The trailing group of boats were also on the shore side, but they had even less opportunity to be able to take advantage of the shift or the current due to disturbed air and extra tacks while fighting for a breath of clean air. Even amongst the three leaders there was a certain amount of messing each other up going on. The third place boat was now starting to fall back to us as they persisted in chasing the shore advantage. The above scenario repeated itself several times up the beat and we were happy to remain in contact with the leaders. Eventually we were able to cross the third place boat and consolidated our gains to round in the top three one more time. The idea of hanging in there while not getting within ten boat-lengths of the favored shore seems impossible, but it worked, so let’s evaluate the possible reasons why.
1) Stacked up start line: With the bulk of the fleet going for the favored end, what happens is that only one or two boats will actually get the great start. Even then, they may be advantaged by position only and not actually up to full speed when the gun goes. The rest of the boats are in a congested pack, slowing each other with dirty air. By starting a little away from the mess we were able to hit the line at full speed, getting a little jump, more than making up for the fact that we were the last to tack onto port.
2) Clear unimpeded lane into shore: Avoiding heavy traffic meant we didn’t have boats trying to squeeze us all the time. We were sailing at a higher average by being in clear air with the ability to foot fast.
3) Fewer tacks: We were able to stay in clear air for the majority of the leg. This gave us lots of time to prepare when we had to tack. We weren’t hell bent on getting to the shore, meaning fewer tacks minimizing losses.
4) Outside the melee: Being just out of the fray was a bit like watching a sh*t fight as opposed to being in the middle of it. This different perspective made it easier to see what was really paying off and what wasn’t. This meant less stress, more focus and probably less energy being used as well.
As the second race progressed the wind built into the mid-twenties making for a fantastic downwind leg. After some searching for the leeward mark, we maintained our third place for the final slog to the finish. Fortunately for us the two leaders insisted on bouncing us back out every time we tried to make our way to the shore. After two or three tries the path of least resistance was calling our name loud and clear. Each extra tack was taking its toll on the crew so it was an easy call to put the traveller down and just give er for the pin end of the line. This had turned into a two hundred yard drag race for all the marbles. We’re getting closer to the line and also experiencing a gradual lift. Now we were just laying the pin and there was no good reason to tack. Nothing to do but hike hard and keep her flat as we’re down to three boat lengths from the line. There were still no horns, so the other boats hadn’t crossed yet. Two boat lengths, hike harder, one boat length and horn. Wow, that was us! Glancing over my shoulder, the two leaders were well to windward, but because they’d put in a couple of extra tacks we’d gotten bow out on them and just managed to pip them at the favored end of the line. Nice work!
We continued to use the play the inside of the favored side strategy throughout the rest of the regatta and it generally served us well. There were of course a few occasions when the strategy was a break even or even a losing proposition. In order to minimize this we needed to keep an eye on a few things.
1) Equal or greater pressure: There were definitely occasions when the shore was favored but there were also times when the inshore boats would experience wind holes or lulls. The pressure off the shore tended to be steadier. This made up for the inshore current and shift advantage at times.
2) Less traffic: Fortunately we were mostly by ourselves in this strategy and that made it easier to keep the boat going. If more boats had joined us it may have been more difficult to make it pay off.
3) Counting on the extra tacks: If the inshore boats indeed put in a greater number of tacks, some of them down speed, then we were OK. When the inshore boats sailed efficiently they could realize the benefits and we were bound to lose some distance to the leaders.
Cow Bay is but one venue and on the long windward leeward one design courses you’ll inevitably be doing lots of tacks. In this particular case we were able to tailor our overall strategy to our strengths and weaknesses as a crew, by limiting our tacks and maximizing our boat speed potential. It wasn’t a Hail Mary approach, when things weren’t working out, but a conscious adjustment to the racing conditions. So next time you’re having a difficult time competing, maybe take a look at making a subtle change in your mindset and strategy. Look at the pros and cons of any changes you make and reevaluate as the racing progresses based on real information and results. Good sailing and I’ll see you on the water.
Cow Bay regatta carnage for Min of Mine
from left: Leah, Naomi, Tara and Marri catch up on their tans Sunday afternoon after the regatta was cut short for Min of Mine. Min managed to find the only large boulder on the layline to the windward mark, connecting with it during a tack. As Min wildly spun out of control Whitenoise smashed into the same rock! thankfully everyone was ok. The boulder made a huge gash in the hull of Min and hit the rudder so hard the tiller flew off, we thought the rudder had droped out of the boat. After the assistance of a small motor boat we got the sails down and motor out from down below, we looked down the shaft to see the rudder post! thinking we could simply push the rudder back up into the boat and keep racing that day, Naomi jumped in the water and attempted to push the rudder back up into the boat.... good try, but forget it! as our trusty paramedic Leah suggested Naomi get back into the boat an not "have a rest". The rudder post had bent at such a sharp angle below the boat it was not moving.
Since we must have invited Murphy out sailing with us that day, our motor decided to quit after we had left the assistance of the little motor boat. Thank god for two paddles and the dock being downwind, we eventually made it with additional assistance getting arround the corner from the break watter to our slip, once tied up we cracked a round of cold ciders and emailed MG marine. - tara
Huge thanks to Tim Knight of UK Halsey sails www.ukhalsey.ca for organizing the regatta and hosting the margarita party!
All the photos below are courtesy of Andrew Madding contact: bowshot@shaw.ca
Visit the link to view all of Andrew Madding's Cow Bay photos: http://picasaweb.google.com/wilkinson.gordon/CowichanBayRegatta2010PhotosByAndrewMadding?feat=embedwebsite#5509407271548757250
Since we must have invited Murphy out sailing with us that day, our motor decided to quit after we had left the assistance of the little motor boat. Thank god for two paddles and the dock being downwind, we eventually made it with additional assistance getting arround the corner from the break watter to our slip, once tied up we cracked a round of cold ciders and emailed MG marine. - tara
Huge thanks to Tim Knight of UK Halsey sails www.ukhalsey.ca for organizing the regatta and hosting the margarita party!
All the photos below are courtesy of Andrew Madding contact: bowshot@shaw.ca
Visit the link to view all of Andrew Madding's Cow Bay photos: http://picasaweb.google.com/wilkinson.gordon/CowichanBayRegatta2010PhotosByAndrewMadding?feat=embedwebsite#5509407271548757250
RIPS Race Week & M242 North Americans August 14th-18th
Star Point was the local star of the regatta, placing 3rd overall - Congratulations Gord! I don't think anyone saw them coming, unlike the team on MapTown who might have had a X on the transom after leading the regatta early!
For everything RIPS visit http://www.rips.ca/
For everything RIPS visit http://www.rips.ca/
Min of Mine and Woodstock. photo Andrew Madding
RIPS... adult summer camp
Rips was absolutely the highlight of the summer, Fleet 2 had great participation of boats, Whitenoise was the first martin to sign up, Maptown, Min of Mine and Starpoint from RVicYC. Blackaddar and ZoomZoom made the trip from Nanimo. Fleet 1 brought lots of boats and one from fleet 4 Sylvan lake! Many of the martins brought motherships, Distraction (pictured left) was constantly the center of the fleet 2 party. Motherships could also set anchor in the bay, the mud bottom seamed to hold well. Other accommodation included the Nosey Point B&B a short walk away, camping on the lawn area at the head of the dock, and I think Starpoint slumbed it at Poets cove just a short dinghy ride away. Bedwell harbour marina is a Pender Island institution, the Pub was quite good (two thumbs up for the chicken burger) and the breakfast cafe served up a quick hearty fare. We were impressed by the renovations to the washrooms and all the staff were very friendly, this regatta will definatly be on our schedule for next year! Tara
Kits Regatta July 10th & 11th - Fleet1 Vancouver
Min of Mine made the crossing to race at Kits this year. The conditions weren't the usual English Bay, however we had a great time. Accommodation was wonderful at Randy Vogel's B&B complete with after party Saturday night! Jeremy and I made the late evening crossing to Porlier Pass arriving as the sun set, followed by a lovely motor down Trincomalli with tide in our favour and glowing water things trailing behind us. We sure appreciated the RVicYC outstation in Long Harbour as a ripping wind storm kicked up just as we docked!
SIN Regatta July 3rd & 4th Results
Maptown, Min and White Noise made the trip from Victoria to Nanaimo Yacht Club's SIN regatta this year. Liz Balderston, our newest Fleet 2 member, made the trip from Kelowna to sail with the Min girls. SIN is a great regatta to mix it up and race against Fleet 1. This year we enjoyed a tight and competitive 12 boat fleet.
Nanimo Yacht Club is home to the rest of the 3 toed island fleet, ZoomZoom, Blackaddar and the spirit of Ruckus. Blackaddar was the top Fleet 2 Martin in 2nd place, with Maptown nipping at his heels in 3rd. Michael Clements with team Wicked stole the show. Ken had a very busy weekend also acting as the amazing organizer and gracious host of the regatta, including a bonfire party at Ken & Linda's gorgeous home Saturday night. SIN Regatta's famous Opti racing and fantastic margaritas were a hit with the Martin crowd Friday night. Huge thanks to the NYC and volunteers! Mark this on you calander for next year, definately worth the trip.
SIN Regatta website http://nanaimoyc.ca/Sailing/Racing/sin_2010/index.html From here you will also find a link to Linda's wonderful photos of the regatta, (Through my eyes photography)
Nanimo Yacht Club is home to the rest of the 3 toed island fleet, ZoomZoom, Blackaddar and the spirit of Ruckus. Blackaddar was the top Fleet 2 Martin in 2nd place, with Maptown nipping at his heels in 3rd. Michael Clements with team Wicked stole the show. Ken had a very busy weekend also acting as the amazing organizer and gracious host of the regatta, including a bonfire party at Ken & Linda's gorgeous home Saturday night. SIN Regatta's famous Opti racing and fantastic margaritas were a hit with the Martin crowd Friday night. Huge thanks to the NYC and volunteers! Mark this on you calander for next year, definately worth the trip.
SIN Regatta website http://nanaimoyc.ca/Sailing/Racing/sin_2010/index.html From here you will also find a link to Linda's wonderful photos of the regatta, (Through my eyes photography)
Sin regatta - Party island style
I know we had a great time... If anyone can remember let me know!
Spring One Design May 8th 2010 Results
Crantini raced for the win overall, Maptown, White Noise and Min of Mine all participated. Look forward to more one design events in Cadboro Bay in Spring and Summer 2011
Spring 2011 one design event is scheduled for Saturday March 12th, 10am start... dont miss it!
Fall one design event is Saturday September 10th.
Spring 2011 one design event is scheduled for Saturday March 12th, 10am start... dont miss it!
Fall one design event is Saturday September 10th.
CFSA & THSA Regatta, May 1st & 2nd, 2010
Canadian Forces Sailing Association regatta was windy this year, with 25+ knots as racing concluded! Giving the new kids on the block exactly what they wanted, Chris Bligh skippered King Julian to 1st place with 5 points, Crantini followed up in 2nd, Maptown close behind in 3rd, and Min of Mine won the party Saturday night. Min was placed up for sale by the fleet on sunday.
Regatta photos below are courtesy of Andrew Madding. bowshot@shaw.ca
Regatta photos below are courtesy of Andrew Madding. bowshot@shaw.ca
T.H.R.A.S.H Regatta April 17th & 18th Results
Thrash (Thank heavens racing and spring are here) is always held the weekend before RVYC's opening Day... Although the weather is often cool in April, this year we lucked out with a gorgeous sunny weekend! We had great turn out from all the Cadboro bay martin's... and the Blackaddar guys made the trip delivering "King Julian" to her new home. Crantini raced a perfect regatta and placed first overall. The after party was 80's inspired and everyone had a radical time. The Min ladies were out in full force and finally had an opportunity to wear the 4 pairs of hot pink tights Tara "just had to have".. Skipper Ken celebrated his 30th birthday! (for the 20th time!)
Regatta photos are courtesy of Andrew Madding bowshot@shaw.ca
Regatta photos are courtesy of Andrew Madding bowshot@shaw.ca
80's were all the rage at T.H.R.A.S.H 2010
The after party was 80's inspired and everyone had a radical time. The Min ladies were out in full force and finally had an opportunity to wear the 4 pairs of hot pink tights Tara "just had to have".. and our dear skipper Ken celebrated his 30th birthday! (for the 20th time!)
Opening Day.. Survival of the fashionistas
Only Kermit, Crantini and Min of Mine held up their social duties this year. Leah, Kate and Tara sailed Min of Mine with the famous Hot Fuschia spinnaker past the Commodore for the salute! Leah received an appropriately healthy dose of holy watter from the pastor, not sure if that counted towards last years sins, or if she thinks that she may have some in the bank for this summer..humm