@Ward H, Sue and I joined our first race this summer to start the summer series of 6 races held on Barnegat Bay by Tall Oaks Y.C. Saturday was Shakedown day and doesn't count toward the series so only a few boats entered. It is intended to give new boats, such as us, an introduction in a low-stress environment. There were 3 race starts on a windward-leeward course. The first race was a single lap and the next 2 were 2 laps. Wind was pretty strong, I'm guessing 15 to 18 knots and pretty steady. The wind made it pretty challenging!
I think the port side tack was favored, but we started on starboard all three times to keep things simple. We finished the first race wing-on-wing, (sort of by accident ) and found out it was the fastest way to the finish line.
We learned that communication is critical. Maneuvers need to be planned better and practiced! I found out that Sue hates being behind. Did I say that we need practice?
We had a great time, but I'm sorry to say that we missed the picnic at the end of the day. Sue needed to get home and I was suffering a cold and not feeling well anyway. Next weekend, we'll be ready for burgers and beer! 6 races in the series starting next Saturday! Unfortunately, we will miss the last 2 in August, unless there is a make-up along the way.
I think the port side tack was favored, but we started on starboard all three times to keep things simple. We finished the first race wing-on-wing, (sort of by accident ) and found out it was the fastest way to the finish line.
We learned that communication is critical. Maneuvers need to be planned better and practiced! I found out that Sue hates being behind. Did I say that we need practice?
We had a great time, but I'm sorry to say that we missed the picnic at the end of the day. Sue needed to get home and I was suffering a cold and not feeling well anyway. Next weekend, we'll be ready for burgers and beer! 6 races in the series starting next Saturday! Unfortunately, we will miss the last 2 in August, unless there is a make-up along the way.