Today's trailer yacht racing at Weymouth was lacking in numbers, but as all the competitors had made alterations over the winter it was still anyones day.
In the very light winds of the first race, the Cherry 16 steered mostly by seven year old Ashley showed excellent form and lead from start to finish, ahead of the Quicksilver 16.
In the second race these two were joined by the Beachcomber 22, and the racing was a lot hotter.
The Cherry and Quicksilver got away from the start well ahead of the Beachcomber, but Rob found some magic and rapidly overtook both the smaller yachts, to lead easily by the first mark. Downwind the fleet stayed pretty close together, and all three boats rounded the turning mark very close together, the Beachcomber just leading the Quicksilver, with the Cherry just seconds behind. Upwind, the smaller boats in previous races have shown better ability, however the work done to the Beachcomber has really sped her up, and she continued to pull ahead. the quicksilver and Cherry were close together up this leg, as both boats experimented with different settings. The Cherry then ran aground while trying to get upwind of the Quicksilver, so their race was almost over, as the time they were aground left them further behind the other two. On the final leg to the finish, all three boats made good pace, but neither of the smaller boats could close the gap, as the beachcomber claimed her first line-honours win of the season.
Full results available on the club website, as soon as I work them out.
Showing posts with label weymouth yacht club. Show all posts
Showing posts with label weymouth yacht club. Show all posts
Sunday, November 17, 2013
Sunday, November 3, 2013
Coming up this month on the Manukau.
Saturday 9th November :
Series A at MYMBC 3pm.
Club day at Clarks Beach, 1pm.
Sunday 10th:
Club day at Weymouth, 2pm.
Open day at French Bay, 2pm.
Saturday 16th:
Club day at Waiuku 9:30am.
Club day at Clarks beach, 1pm
Sunday 17th:
TY race 2 at Weymouth, 9am.
MYMBC series A at 10:30am.
Spring series at French Bay, 10am.
Champs series at Waiuku, 10am.
Saturday 23rd:
Club day at Weymouth, 1pm.
Memorial cup at MYMBC, 2pm.
points racing at Clarks Beach, 1pm
Sunday 24th:
Club day at Weymouth, 1:30pm.
Spring series at French Bay, 1pm.
Saturday 30th:
Club day at Clarks Beach, 1pm.
Working bee at Weymouth -please note some roads around Manurewa will be closed this morning for the Santa Parade.
Sunday, 1st December:
Club day at Waiuku, 9am.
And coming up early next month:
The second annual Manukau Meltdown regatta is being held at Weymouth Yacht Club on Saturday December 7th. More details coming very soon.
Series A at MYMBC 3pm.
Club day at Clarks Beach, 1pm.
Sunday 10th:
Club day at Weymouth, 2pm.
Open day at French Bay, 2pm.
Saturday 16th:
Club day at Waiuku 9:30am.
Club day at Clarks beach, 1pm
Sunday 17th:
TY race 2 at Weymouth, 9am.
MYMBC series A at 10:30am.
Spring series at French Bay, 10am.
Champs series at Waiuku, 10am.
Saturday 23rd:
Club day at Weymouth, 1pm.
Memorial cup at MYMBC, 2pm.
points racing at Clarks Beach, 1pm
Sunday 24th:
Club day at Weymouth, 1:30pm.
Spring series at French Bay, 1pm.
Saturday 30th:
Club day at Clarks Beach, 1pm.
Working bee at Weymouth -please note some roads around Manurewa will be closed this morning for the Santa Parade.
Sunday, 1st December:
Club day at Waiuku, 9am.
And coming up early next month:
The second annual Manukau Meltdown regatta is being held at Weymouth Yacht Club on Saturday December 7th. More details coming very soon.
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Weymouth 2013 Opening Sprints
Today saw the formal start to the 2013-14 racing season at Weymouth Yacht Club, in Manurewa, greater Auckland.
Four short races were held, with a wide variety of boats, in quite light, testing conditions, which improved throughout the day.
The first race was a short affair, and the three Lasers opened up a sizable lead on the rest of the fleet, however it was Angela in the Starling, finishing fourth on the water, who took the handicap honours.
Aaron, sailing with two year old daughter Cailey as crew, was third Laser for most of the race, but found some luck on the final beat, passing Rob and Pete as they sat in a windless hole.
Seven year old Ashley, sailing in a plastic Optimist dinghy, sailed the entire course on her own, with no outside help. This was quite an achievement, having only ever sailed on her own once before. New member Neil also deserves mention here, as it was also the first time he had ever raced in a sailing boat.
With Aaron, Cailey, and Ashley out for race two, the fleet was closer together, and this time Angela showed that a good start really helps, as she lead the Lasers for most of the first leg. In time, of course, the Lasers were able to catch and pass the starling, however it was Gina, sailing her Topper, that got the eventual win.
Race three was a very close fought affair, as Rob and Pete match raced around the course leading the fleet, whilst Gina in the Topper, and Angela in the Starling, sailed their own races, and once the handicaps were applied, there were just a few seconds between the top four boats. The two ladies also finished only seconds apart on the water, right behind the Lasers.
In the final race of the day, Neil had finally figured out the unique starting system, and the entire fleet got clean, fast starts, and kept very close together.
After the racing there was a sausage sizzle, and a few other members turned up to chat.
Special thanks go out to our volunteers, Murray, Roger, and Simon. Without you, today would not have been the success it was.
Full results now up on the club website, in the results section.
Four short races were held, with a wide variety of boats, in quite light, testing conditions, which improved throughout the day.
The first race was a short affair, and the three Lasers opened up a sizable lead on the rest of the fleet, however it was Angela in the Starling, finishing fourth on the water, who took the handicap honours.
Aaron, sailing with two year old daughter Cailey as crew, was third Laser for most of the race, but found some luck on the final beat, passing Rob and Pete as they sat in a windless hole.
Seven year old Ashley, sailing in a plastic Optimist dinghy, sailed the entire course on her own, with no outside help. This was quite an achievement, having only ever sailed on her own once before. New member Neil also deserves mention here, as it was also the first time he had ever raced in a sailing boat.
With Aaron, Cailey, and Ashley out for race two, the fleet was closer together, and this time Angela showed that a good start really helps, as she lead the Lasers for most of the first leg. In time, of course, the Lasers were able to catch and pass the starling, however it was Gina, sailing her Topper, that got the eventual win.
Race three was a very close fought affair, as Rob and Pete match raced around the course leading the fleet, whilst Gina in the Topper, and Angela in the Starling, sailed their own races, and once the handicaps were applied, there were just a few seconds between the top four boats. The two ladies also finished only seconds apart on the water, right behind the Lasers.
In the final race of the day, Neil had finally figured out the unique starting system, and the entire fleet got clean, fast starts, and kept very close together.
After the racing there was a sausage sizzle, and a few other members turned up to chat.
Special thanks go out to our volunteers, Murray, Roger, and Simon. Without you, today would not have been the success it was.
Full results now up on the club website, in the results section.
Sunday, February 10, 2013
2013 Manukau Regatta
Today was the annual Manukau shield challenge, hosted this year by French Bay Yacht Club.
66 boats faced the starters flags, with visitors from Maraetai, Manukau, Panmure Lagoon, and Weymouth clubs, as well as twelve-foot skiffs from Auckland Sailing Club. Two races were sailed, each lasting just over an hour.
Maraetai also provided some extra safety cover, in the form of three RIB's.
The weather gods turned on yet another perfect day, with temperatures in the mid to high twenties, and wind ranging between 5 and 15 knots. The water was fairly flat, although once the tide started running out, the chop started to build.
The on-water action was really hot, with everyone having a good tussle with the boats around them.
I was busy with the Laser fleet, where we had 12 boats. Most were sailing with standard rigs, although a few opted for the radial rig.
The wind shifted part-way through the starting sequence of the first race, making the start line a bit biased to the left, although looking up the course showed what seemed to be a right hand shift. This resulted in most of the fleet starting on the left end, while me and a few others went out on the right.
There didn't seem to be a lot in it, as at the top mark I rounded as the first of the right-siders, in fifth place but right behind the leaders.
Don won this race quite easily in the end, setting the standard for the rest of the fleet.
Race two saw a much more orderly start, and Chantal picked it right, taking first around the top mark, with me in second. We then took off down the reach, heading in the wrong direction! This dropped us down the order a tiny bit, although both still in contention.
The final results showed PLSC sailors taking the top three places, with Don winning both races.
Looking forward...
The shield challenge seems to have lost its glory and prestige, with very few eligible clubs sending teams to compete in recent years. Ineligible clubs have been sending large numbers of boats, with Taikata sendng several boats to Weymouth last year, and PLSC sending good numbers today.
One must wonder, therefore, whether the shield should be re-defined, and such clubs allowed entry.
66 boats faced the starters flags, with visitors from Maraetai, Manukau, Panmure Lagoon, and Weymouth clubs, as well as twelve-foot skiffs from Auckland Sailing Club. Two races were sailed, each lasting just over an hour.
Maraetai also provided some extra safety cover, in the form of three RIB's.
The weather gods turned on yet another perfect day, with temperatures in the mid to high twenties, and wind ranging between 5 and 15 knots. The water was fairly flat, although once the tide started running out, the chop started to build.
The on-water action was really hot, with everyone having a good tussle with the boats around them.
I was busy with the Laser fleet, where we had 12 boats. Most were sailing with standard rigs, although a few opted for the radial rig.
The wind shifted part-way through the starting sequence of the first race, making the start line a bit biased to the left, although looking up the course showed what seemed to be a right hand shift. This resulted in most of the fleet starting on the left end, while me and a few others went out on the right.
There didn't seem to be a lot in it, as at the top mark I rounded as the first of the right-siders, in fifth place but right behind the leaders.
Don won this race quite easily in the end, setting the standard for the rest of the fleet.
Race two saw a much more orderly start, and Chantal picked it right, taking first around the top mark, with me in second. We then took off down the reach, heading in the wrong direction! This dropped us down the order a tiny bit, although both still in contention.
The final results showed PLSC sailors taking the top three places, with Don winning both races.
Looking forward...
The shield challenge seems to have lost its glory and prestige, with very few eligible clubs sending teams to compete in recent years. Ineligible clubs have been sending large numbers of boats, with Taikata sendng several boats to Weymouth last year, and PLSC sending good numbers today.
One must wonder, therefore, whether the shield should be re-defined, and such clubs allowed entry.
Sunday, January 27, 2013
Trailer Yacht fun at Weymouth
Two days of great fun was had at Weymouth Yacht Club over the first days of Anniversary Weekend.
Rob L had his new Hartley 16 on site, so the first day became a long match race between this and the Cherry 16. Later in the day we were joined by Rob K in the Beachcomber 22.
In the light winds, the Cherry struggled to keep pace with the Hartley early on, trailing until Rob made a bad decision and got caught in the outgoing tide.
Mid afternoon, we started experimenting with crew positions in the Cherry, and found that by sending the heaviest crew member far forward, that upwind performance improved dramatically in the light winds.
Sunday morning dawned cooler, and the same three boats (with different crews) were out for some serious-ish racing.
The first race was a long L shape, with return legs, totalling around 5 miles. At the first mark, following a long reach, the Hartley was just leading the Cherry, with the Beachcomber a little further back, struggling with sail changes in the variable conditions. The next leg was a long beat, with winds gusting between ten and 20knots. Early on, the Cherry got her nose in front, until half way up the beat they went to the left side of the course looking for a favourable shift that wasn't there. This let the Hartley gain the advantage, which they held on the return legs all the way back to Weymouth.
The beachcomber found the going tough, and was unable to keep pace in the changeable conditions today.
The second race was much shorter, only around two miles. The race became a procession as the wind turned slightly making it a beam reach in both directions. The Hartley again showed why they are the worlds favourite trailer yacht, and lead the other boats all the way.
Rob L had his new Hartley 16 on site, so the first day became a long match race between this and the Cherry 16. Later in the day we were joined by Rob K in the Beachcomber 22.
In the light winds, the Cherry struggled to keep pace with the Hartley early on, trailing until Rob made a bad decision and got caught in the outgoing tide.
Mid afternoon, we started experimenting with crew positions in the Cherry, and found that by sending the heaviest crew member far forward, that upwind performance improved dramatically in the light winds.
Sunday morning dawned cooler, and the same three boats (with different crews) were out for some serious-ish racing.
The first race was a long L shape, with return legs, totalling around 5 miles. At the first mark, following a long reach, the Hartley was just leading the Cherry, with the Beachcomber a little further back, struggling with sail changes in the variable conditions. The next leg was a long beat, with winds gusting between ten and 20knots. Early on, the Cherry got her nose in front, until half way up the beat they went to the left side of the course looking for a favourable shift that wasn't there. This let the Hartley gain the advantage, which they held on the return legs all the way back to Weymouth.
The beachcomber found the going tough, and was unable to keep pace in the changeable conditions today.
The second race was much shorter, only around two miles. The race became a procession as the wind turned slightly making it a beam reach in both directions. The Hartley again showed why they are the worlds favourite trailer yacht, and lead the other boats all the way.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Heavy weather fun
Sunday saw a good strong breeze, puffing up to around 30 knots, with calmer bits of around 20 knots in between.
Three keen Laser sailors decided to give it a go, and had an absolute blast.
Rob and Pete both decided to reduce sail, and reefed their boats, while Aaron opted for full rig.
After a few minutes, Aaron started to wonder if he had made the wrong decision, after capsizing in a gybe during one of the calmer patches.
Pete discovered that some of the lines on his previously untested boat were not quite right, and also had a few swims.
As the day wore on, all three attempted several gybes, mostly successfully. All three showed signs of rust, and improved markedly during the day.
After an hour or two of ripping around, Pete got a little too close to the lee shore, and with those lines stretching uncontrollably, found it difficult to get sailing upwind off the shore, so decided to wait for a tow back to the clubhouse.
On one occasion, Rob and Aaron lined up for a bit of a drag race. Upwind in the 25-30 knots, there was very little difference in the speed of the full versus reefed sail, at least in the steep chop and over the short distance they had. Turning downwind, however, was a very different story, as the power of the full rig came into play, and speeds were poles apart.
Big thanks to Simon and Murray for manning the rescue boat - we probably wouldn't have gone out without you!
Coming up next we have the first of our River Races on Saturday 17th November, followed by our first Harbour Race on the Sunday.
The River Race is open to all boats, and will go towards the motorway at Papakura, while the Harbour Race is limited to bigger boats, sunburst or larger, for safety reasons as we will be leaving the sheltered area of the estuary and hitting the exposed waters of the main harbour. The course should include the LPG terminal as a rounding mark.
Three keen Laser sailors decided to give it a go, and had an absolute blast.
Rob and Pete both decided to reduce sail, and reefed their boats, while Aaron opted for full rig.
After a few minutes, Aaron started to wonder if he had made the wrong decision, after capsizing in a gybe during one of the calmer patches.
Pete discovered that some of the lines on his previously untested boat were not quite right, and also had a few swims.
As the day wore on, all three attempted several gybes, mostly successfully. All three showed signs of rust, and improved markedly during the day.
After an hour or two of ripping around, Pete got a little too close to the lee shore, and with those lines stretching uncontrollably, found it difficult to get sailing upwind off the shore, so decided to wait for a tow back to the clubhouse.
On one occasion, Rob and Aaron lined up for a bit of a drag race. Upwind in the 25-30 knots, there was very little difference in the speed of the full versus reefed sail, at least in the steep chop and over the short distance they had. Turning downwind, however, was a very different story, as the power of the full rig came into play, and speeds were poles apart.
Big thanks to Simon and Murray for manning the rescue boat - we probably wouldn't have gone out without you!
Coming up next we have the first of our River Races on Saturday 17th November, followed by our first Harbour Race on the Sunday.
The River Race is open to all boats, and will go towards the motorway at Papakura, while the Harbour Race is limited to bigger boats, sunburst or larger, for safety reasons as we will be leaving the sheltered area of the estuary and hitting the exposed waters of the main harbour. The course should include the LPG terminal as a rounding mark.
Monday, October 8, 2012
Weymouth YC Opening Day
Awesome weather greeted the small but keen fleet of sailors on Sunday 7th october, for the season opener of 2012-13.
There was around 10-15 knots of wind, blowing straight up the channel past the clubhouse.
Although only three boats started, all of the sailors were new members, some of which had just taken part in our beginners course.
As it happened, if the club had had more sunbursts available, there would have been more boats on the water, as two of the boats were over-subscribed (sailing 3-up), and two other members stayed ashore.
A simple windward-leeward course was set, with a start/finish part-way up the beat. The first race was two laps.
For simplicity we opted to use the reef pole as one end of the start line. This proved to be very entertaining for the spectators, as each boat took its turn performing a not-so-graceful pirouette as they hit the reef. I might add that it was a little frustrating for the competitors.
The white sunburst, sailing 3-up, being helmed by Paul, spent more time on the reef than the others, running onto it immediately after crossing the start line. This proved to be a good thing, as it gave the others a chance to get their noses in front.
The red sunburst, sailing 2-up and being helmed by Rob L, hit the front, and held on to their lead for most of the race, only being pipped by Paul quite near the finish. The blue sunburst, sailing 3-up with Ajith on the tiller, were always close by, just not quite hitting the front.
So at the end of race 1, the finishing order was white, red, blue.
In the second race of the day, paul sailed a flawless race, leading from the start, to win by a large margin. as the other two approached the line, it was anyone's guess, as they switched places often. In this race the blue boat was being steered by Pete. Thirty seconds out from the line it looked like the blue boat was going to be in front, but it was not to be, as Rob just managed to squeeze past.
Once the handicaps were applied, Paul and Rob had a win each, while Ajith and Pete had managed to secure two thirds.
Full results on the Weymouth Y.C. website.
Next club day Sunday 14th, at 9:30am.
There was around 10-15 knots of wind, blowing straight up the channel past the clubhouse.
Although only three boats started, all of the sailors were new members, some of which had just taken part in our beginners course.
As it happened, if the club had had more sunbursts available, there would have been more boats on the water, as two of the boats were over-subscribed (sailing 3-up), and two other members stayed ashore.
A simple windward-leeward course was set, with a start/finish part-way up the beat. The first race was two laps.
For simplicity we opted to use the reef pole as one end of the start line. This proved to be very entertaining for the spectators, as each boat took its turn performing a not-so-graceful pirouette as they hit the reef. I might add that it was a little frustrating for the competitors.
The white sunburst, sailing 3-up, being helmed by Paul, spent more time on the reef than the others, running onto it immediately after crossing the start line. This proved to be a good thing, as it gave the others a chance to get their noses in front.
The red sunburst, sailing 2-up and being helmed by Rob L, hit the front, and held on to their lead for most of the race, only being pipped by Paul quite near the finish. The blue sunburst, sailing 3-up with Ajith on the tiller, were always close by, just not quite hitting the front.
So at the end of race 1, the finishing order was white, red, blue.
In the second race of the day, paul sailed a flawless race, leading from the start, to win by a large margin. as the other two approached the line, it was anyone's guess, as they switched places often. In this race the blue boat was being steered by Pete. Thirty seconds out from the line it looked like the blue boat was going to be in front, but it was not to be, as Rob just managed to squeeze past.
Once the handicaps were applied, Paul and Rob had a win each, while Ajith and Pete had managed to secure two thirds.
Full results on the Weymouth Y.C. website.
Next club day Sunday 14th, at 9:30am.
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Fun times in the rain.
This mornings Pakuranga SC winter series proved challenging in more ways than one.
In the first race, boats drifted in all directions, with virtually zero wind, for around 20 minutes. Two sunbursts managed to excel in the drifting conditions, and opened up a huge lead over the rest of the fleet. Then suddenly, the breeze filled in, gently at first, around five knots, then building very rapidly up to around 15, with a few gusts getting close to 20. Those two sunbursts proceeded to plane flat out down the run, while several of the following fleet fell over! Those that stayed upright got soaked, thanks to heavy rain just before the wind kicked in!
The breeze then settled down to a nice solid 15 knots, which held in for the rest of the time I was there.
Today I took my Laser, so was unable to get any photos.
The second race started while I was de-rigging, having broken a small but crucial fitting between races.
________________________
Later in the day, the trailer yacht winter series continued at Manukau Yacht and Motor Boat Club.
For some reason, the Noelex fleet were absent, so the fleet was five Hartley 16's and one Cherry 16.
As this was the first time in over a year we had had a chance to line the Cherry up against the Hartleys, no-one had any idea how competitive or otherwise we would be.
Unfortunately we missed the first start while helping some fellow Weymouth sailors in a Hartley with rigging problems. Sailing around before the start, cruising downwind, we were significantly slower than all the Hartleys, which was somewhat worrying.
A good start in the second race saw us just behind the top Hartleys, doing better than we suspected we would, as we rounded the first mark. The two robs, sailing in the new Hartley, were struggling to get to grips with the boat, and had fallen behind somewhat. Sailing downwind, we had speed that seemed pretty close to the boats ahead. The breeze was around 15-20 knots, so we had occasional spurts of planing, especially when we sailed a little high.
The next beat the breeze was a little higher, and we were close to matching the top boats. Again, Rob was struggling upwind in the breeze.
Back down to the finish, and although we were a small distance behind the leaders, we had all had a good day on the water, and found out a little more about our boats.
Rob's new Hartley showed moments of brilliant speed, and once they get it tuned up properly should be pretty quick. Stay tuned for more!
In the first race, boats drifted in all directions, with virtually zero wind, for around 20 minutes. Two sunbursts managed to excel in the drifting conditions, and opened up a huge lead over the rest of the fleet. Then suddenly, the breeze filled in, gently at first, around five knots, then building very rapidly up to around 15, with a few gusts getting close to 20. Those two sunbursts proceeded to plane flat out down the run, while several of the following fleet fell over! Those that stayed upright got soaked, thanks to heavy rain just before the wind kicked in!
The breeze then settled down to a nice solid 15 knots, which held in for the rest of the time I was there.
Today I took my Laser, so was unable to get any photos.
The second race started while I was de-rigging, having broken a small but crucial fitting between races.
________________________
Later in the day, the trailer yacht winter series continued at Manukau Yacht and Motor Boat Club.
For some reason, the Noelex fleet were absent, so the fleet was five Hartley 16's and one Cherry 16.
As this was the first time in over a year we had had a chance to line the Cherry up against the Hartleys, no-one had any idea how competitive or otherwise we would be.
Unfortunately we missed the first start while helping some fellow Weymouth sailors in a Hartley with rigging problems. Sailing around before the start, cruising downwind, we were significantly slower than all the Hartleys, which was somewhat worrying.
A good start in the second race saw us just behind the top Hartleys, doing better than we suspected we would, as we rounded the first mark. The two robs, sailing in the new Hartley, were struggling to get to grips with the boat, and had fallen behind somewhat. Sailing downwind, we had speed that seemed pretty close to the boats ahead. The breeze was around 15-20 knots, so we had occasional spurts of planing, especially when we sailed a little high.
The next beat the breeze was a little higher, and we were close to matching the top boats. Again, Rob was struggling upwind in the breeze.
Back down to the finish, and although we were a small distance behind the leaders, we had all had a good day on the water, and found out a little more about our boats.
Rob's new Hartley showed moments of brilliant speed, and once they get it tuned up properly should be pretty quick. Stay tuned for more!
Friday, April 13, 2012
Decent exposure
After the moderate success of the Regatta, I managed to get a full report in Yachts And Yachting, possibly the best sailing mag on the planet.
It's basically the two blog posts, stuck together and edited to make sense.
View it here...
http://www.yachtsandyachting.com/news/162518/Manukau-Regatta-in-Auckland
And yes, I'm proud of my achievements!
It's basically the two blog posts, stuck together and edited to make sense.
View it here...
http://www.yachtsandyachting.com/news/162518/Manukau-Regatta-in-Auckland
And yes, I'm proud of my achievements!
Monday, April 9, 2012
A note of thanks
A special THANK-YOU to all those people who helped to make the weekend the success it was.
In no particular order...
South Auckland Glass Services - event sponsor.
Murray Boucher
Rob Kent
Simon Tidbury
Jodie Tidbury
Pete Hagglund
Codie McMaster
Danya Byrnes
Keith Sharp, for bringing most of Taikata Sailing club along to compete.
Murray and Kim for helping run the races.
Cyril, Tony and Mark, for supplying rescue boats, allowing our members to race.
All the sailors, visiting and local.
And absolutely everyone else involved with the regatta, who I either missed off my list, or don't know your names!
Thanks again.
Aaron.
In no particular order...
South Auckland Glass Services - event sponsor.
Murray Boucher
Rob Kent
Simon Tidbury
Jodie Tidbury
Pete Hagglund
Codie McMaster
Danya Byrnes
Keith Sharp, for bringing most of Taikata Sailing club along to compete.
Murray and Kim for helping run the races.
Cyril, Tony and Mark, for supplying rescue boats, allowing our members to race.
All the sailors, visiting and local.
And absolutely everyone else involved with the regatta, who I either missed off my list, or don't know your names!
Thanks again.
Aaron.
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Manukau Regatta - Day 2.
Today was the actual Manukau interclub Regatta, with the Manukau Shield up for grabs.
Like yesterday, the weather gods smiled on us, with near perfect conditions - hot and sunny, with a nice 10 knot breeze straight from the Tasman sea. Unlike yesterday's shifty stuff, tho', todays breeze was relatively consistent.
A keen fleet of 21 boats fronted for the first race, with teams from the host club Weymouth, and the defenders French Bay YC. The largest fleet was from Taikata SC, who were not eligible for the Manukau Shield, and instead were racing for their inaugural Frostbite Travellers trophy.
A large olympic course of a triangle and two windward leewards was the order of the day, and OOD Murray Gallagher, from Clarks Beach YC, with Kim Admore from Yachting NZ, had the fleets away nicely.
The visiting Jollyboat sailed by Rene' Vanderboert from French bay set a blistering pace, and lead Murray Boucher, from the home club, also in a Jollyboat. These two were being keenly chased by Jim Quinn sailing a Laser radial, also from FBYC. Next in the mix was a jumble of boats I couldn't keep track of from the safety boat. The lead frostbites were right up there too, enjoying the conditions, as was the Moth.
In the junior fleet, Codie McMaster (WYC) was just ahead of Max Gruebner (FBYC) both in Starlings. Next was the scout cutter, Helmed by Simon Tidbury (WYC), and several sunbursts.
Unfortunately for Murray, he had a slip-up at the final turning mark, and got overtaken by Jim, giving French Bay the top two senior placings. The Junior honours were shared between clubs, with Codie getting the better of Max.
In the Frostbite fleet, Brent Jeffries took this race, followed by Keith Sharp.
The second race was pretty similar, except that the breeze had built slightly, which allowed the Paper Tiger catamaran of Pete Hagglund to get the lead shortly after the start. Sadly for him, the breeze lightened off after a while, and the monohull dinghies got back in front.
Rob's moth had suffered undetected damage during Saturdays racing, and took on a lot of water, so he decided to sit this race out. Codie was feeling too cold to go back for the second race, so also stayed ashore.
After the racing, the results were worked out for all the divisions, and the prizes were awarded as follows:
Senior fleet - Rene Vanderboert, Jim Quinn, Brent jeffries equal first in an unprecedented three way tie.
Junior fleet - Max Gruebner 1, Simon Tidbury 2, Locquahn Tukerangi 3.
Frostbite Travelers Trophy - Keith Sharp 1, Brent Jeffries 2, Adam Fincher 3.
Manukau Shield winning club - Weymouth Yacht Club.
The entire event was sponsored by South Auckland Glass Services.
Like yesterday, the weather gods smiled on us, with near perfect conditions - hot and sunny, with a nice 10 knot breeze straight from the Tasman sea. Unlike yesterday's shifty stuff, tho', todays breeze was relatively consistent.
A keen fleet of 21 boats fronted for the first race, with teams from the host club Weymouth, and the defenders French Bay YC. The largest fleet was from Taikata SC, who were not eligible for the Manukau Shield, and instead were racing for their inaugural Frostbite Travellers trophy.
A large olympic course of a triangle and two windward leewards was the order of the day, and OOD Murray Gallagher, from Clarks Beach YC, with Kim Admore from Yachting NZ, had the fleets away nicely.
The visiting Jollyboat sailed by Rene' Vanderboert from French bay set a blistering pace, and lead Murray Boucher, from the home club, also in a Jollyboat. These two were being keenly chased by Jim Quinn sailing a Laser radial, also from FBYC. Next in the mix was a jumble of boats I couldn't keep track of from the safety boat. The lead frostbites were right up there too, enjoying the conditions, as was the Moth.
In the junior fleet, Codie McMaster (WYC) was just ahead of Max Gruebner (FBYC) both in Starlings. Next was the scout cutter, Helmed by Simon Tidbury (WYC), and several sunbursts.
Unfortunately for Murray, he had a slip-up at the final turning mark, and got overtaken by Jim, giving French Bay the top two senior placings. The Junior honours were shared between clubs, with Codie getting the better of Max.
In the Frostbite fleet, Brent Jeffries took this race, followed by Keith Sharp.
The second race was pretty similar, except that the breeze had built slightly, which allowed the Paper Tiger catamaran of Pete Hagglund to get the lead shortly after the start. Sadly for him, the breeze lightened off after a while, and the monohull dinghies got back in front.
Rob's moth had suffered undetected damage during Saturdays racing, and took on a lot of water, so he decided to sit this race out. Codie was feeling too cold to go back for the second race, so also stayed ashore.
After the racing, the results were worked out for all the divisions, and the prizes were awarded as follows:
Senior fleet - Rene Vanderboert, Jim Quinn, Brent jeffries equal first in an unprecedented three way tie.
Junior fleet - Max Gruebner 1, Simon Tidbury 2, Locquahn Tukerangi 3.
Frostbite Travelers Trophy - Keith Sharp 1, Brent Jeffries 2, Adam Fincher 3.
Manukau Shield winning club - Weymouth Yacht Club.
The entire event was sponsored by South Auckland Glass Services.
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Manukau Regatta Day 1 - Weymouth Yacht Club.
Today saw the sprint series, leading into the Manukau Regatta proper tomorrow.
Fleet numbers were lower than we had hoped, mostly because this event fell on a long weekend.
A total of eleven boats were racing, including three visiting frostbites from Taikata SC, and four scout boats. Several local sailors were unable to sail, either away or running the racing.
In the four scratch races, the sole Jollyboat sailed by Murray managed a clean sweep of wins (just), with local Frostbite Keith getting three seconds, with a third behind the Paper tiger sailed by Pete.
Local Moth sailor Rob managed three thirds, before capsizing in the fourth race.
In the Final, which was a Mark-Foy start based around the days performances so far, the Scout Cutter and Sunbursts were away first, followed by three frostbites, then the Moth and another Frostbite, with the Jollyboat and Paper Tiger being last to start.
Sadly for Pete, the wind eased off right before the start, and without the ability to fly a hull, he was unable to get the best out of the cat.
At the half-way point, it was Frostbites holding the first four places, with the rest of the fleet just behind. The late starters were starting to work their way through the fleet, with Murray up to fifth, and Pete in 8th.
Rounding the final mark, Murray had just hit the front, the light winds helping him out, with the Frostbites of Ashok and Keith in hot pursuit.
Closing on the finish, Murray had managed to hold on, around 30 seconds ahead, with the two frostbites side by side challenging for second.
Ashok managed to keep his nose in front, and Keith had to settle for third place - In terms of time, there was around a second between them as they crossed the line.
So, in our first ever Winner-take-all sprint series, it was a local who swept the pool, taking all the prize money home.
Here's a few images from the day. Check the club website (teams section - regatta minisite) to see all the pictures taken today.
Tomorrow (Sunday 8th) is the actual Manukau Regatta, with the inter-club shield up for grabs to the winning team. The current holder is French Bay Yacht Club, but as host club, Weymouth is gunning for it!
Fleet numbers were lower than we had hoped, mostly because this event fell on a long weekend.
A total of eleven boats were racing, including three visiting frostbites from Taikata SC, and four scout boats. Several local sailors were unable to sail, either away or running the racing.
In the four scratch races, the sole Jollyboat sailed by Murray managed a clean sweep of wins (just), with local Frostbite Keith getting three seconds, with a third behind the Paper tiger sailed by Pete.
Local Moth sailor Rob managed three thirds, before capsizing in the fourth race.
In the Final, which was a Mark-Foy start based around the days performances so far, the Scout Cutter and Sunbursts were away first, followed by three frostbites, then the Moth and another Frostbite, with the Jollyboat and Paper Tiger being last to start.
Sadly for Pete, the wind eased off right before the start, and without the ability to fly a hull, he was unable to get the best out of the cat.
At the half-way point, it was Frostbites holding the first four places, with the rest of the fleet just behind. The late starters were starting to work their way through the fleet, with Murray up to fifth, and Pete in 8th.
Rounding the final mark, Murray had just hit the front, the light winds helping him out, with the Frostbites of Ashok and Keith in hot pursuit.
Closing on the finish, Murray had managed to hold on, around 30 seconds ahead, with the two frostbites side by side challenging for second.
Ashok managed to keep his nose in front, and Keith had to settle for third place - In terms of time, there was around a second between them as they crossed the line.
So, in our first ever Winner-take-all sprint series, it was a local who swept the pool, taking all the prize money home.
Here's a few images from the day. Check the club website (teams section - regatta minisite) to see all the pictures taken today.
Tomorrow (Sunday 8th) is the actual Manukau Regatta, with the inter-club shield up for grabs to the winning team. The current holder is French Bay Yacht Club, but as host club, Weymouth is gunning for it!
Friday, April 6, 2012
MANUKAU REGATTA TOMORROW!
Everything is set, the supplies are in, the guys are ready, the competitors are rearing to go...
The sprint series is set for 9:30 tomorrow, thats Saturday!
Four races, leading to a reverse-start final race. Winner takes all, for a cash prize. Or maybe we'll split it with second and third.
Should be serious fun!
The manukau regatta proper is Sunday, also 0930.
Standard, two long races, set in the awesome sailing waters of the Manukau Harbour.
The harbour is well known for its dangerous waves, and strong winds, when the shallow water gets upset, and waves break with savage force. The harbour is roughly 20 niles across, and circular, yet only around 6 feet deep, and often dries out on very low tides.
Tomorrow is a very big tide, and the forecast is for a beautiful hot sunny day, and 15 knot winds blowing straight up the estuary, so perfect conditions for our short-course races.
Kim Admore, direct from Yachting NZ, is lending us a hand.
Anyone reading this around Auckland, get your "boat" into gear and get down here!
The sprint series is set for 9:30 tomorrow, thats Saturday!
Four races, leading to a reverse-start final race. Winner takes all, for a cash prize. Or maybe we'll split it with second and third.
Should be serious fun!
The manukau regatta proper is Sunday, also 0930.
Standard, two long races, set in the awesome sailing waters of the Manukau Harbour.
The harbour is well known for its dangerous waves, and strong winds, when the shallow water gets upset, and waves break with savage force. The harbour is roughly 20 niles across, and circular, yet only around 6 feet deep, and often dries out on very low tides.
Tomorrow is a very big tide, and the forecast is for a beautiful hot sunny day, and 15 knot winds blowing straight up the estuary, so perfect conditions for our short-course races.
Kim Admore, direct from Yachting NZ, is lending us a hand.
Anyone reading this around Auckland, get your "boat" into gear and get down here!
Friday, March 23, 2012
This weekend's sailing - March 24/25
Saturday...
Weymouth YC - Training at 1145.
French Bay YC - Training at 1000.
Waiuku YC - Match racing at 1100
Sunday...
Weymouth YC - Trailer yacht series final races - briefing 1100.
Manukau YMBC - Club Champs day 2 at 1230.
French Bay YC - Racing at 1100.
Waiuku YC - Champs racing #8 at 1130.
Panmure Lagoon SC have a river race at 0900.
Pakuranga SC have racing starting 0900.
Windfinder says to expect mostly fine weather, and around 15 knots (thats f4 for those who only know beaufort!)
So... get your boat out, scrub it quickly (or don't, its your choice) ring your mate with another boat in his back shed, and drag him and yourself to the nearest club. Aim to arrive around an hour before the start times listed here.
Remember to bring the bungs, and especially to put them in.
Generally speaking, each club has its own niche group, so as a guide...
Weymouth caters for all, but this week is aimed at trailer yachts and big dinghies.
Manukau is a stronghold for Hartley 16s and Noelex 22s, but will also welcome all.
French Bay caters for everything that can be launched off the beach.
Waiuku - as above, strong in finns etc.
Panmure LSC is a laser club - full rig, radial, and 4.7, also has O'pen bics.
Pakuranga SC caters for dinghies that can be launched off the beach.
And coming soon....
2012 Manukau Regatta.
hosted by Weymouth Yacht Club, Easter Saturday and Sunday.
All welcome, aim to arrive around 8am each day, racing starts at 9:30.
Come down and give us a try!
Of course I'm a bit biased, its my home club.
Weymouth YC - Training at 1145.
French Bay YC - Training at 1000.
Waiuku YC - Match racing at 1100
Sunday...
Weymouth YC - Trailer yacht series final races - briefing 1100.
Manukau YMBC - Club Champs day 2 at 1230.
French Bay YC - Racing at 1100.
Waiuku YC - Champs racing #8 at 1130.
Panmure Lagoon SC have a river race at 0900.
Pakuranga SC have racing starting 0900.
Windfinder says to expect mostly fine weather, and around 15 knots (thats f4 for those who only know beaufort!)
So... get your boat out, scrub it quickly (or don't, its your choice) ring your mate with another boat in his back shed, and drag him and yourself to the nearest club. Aim to arrive around an hour before the start times listed here.
Remember to bring the bungs, and especially to put them in.
Generally speaking, each club has its own niche group, so as a guide...
Weymouth caters for all, but this week is aimed at trailer yachts and big dinghies.
Manukau is a stronghold for Hartley 16s and Noelex 22s, but will also welcome all.
French Bay caters for everything that can be launched off the beach.
Waiuku - as above, strong in finns etc.
Panmure LSC is a laser club - full rig, radial, and 4.7, also has O'pen bics.
Pakuranga SC caters for dinghies that can be launched off the beach.
And coming soon....
2012 Manukau Regatta.
hosted by Weymouth Yacht Club, Easter Saturday and Sunday.
All welcome, aim to arrive around 8am each day, racing starts at 9:30.
Come down and give us a try!
Of course I'm a bit biased, its my home club.
Sunday, March 18, 2012
Manukau regatta - Easter weekend
Weymouth Yacht Club is hosting the 25th annual Manukau Regatta over Easter Weekend 2012.
A two day event, each day stands alone.
Saturday 7th April sees a sprint series, where each competitor sails four short races against similar boats. as an example, The "A-Fleet" could have Optimist, P Class,and O'pen Bic, the "B-Fleet" could comprise Starling, Sunburst, Frostbite, Topper, Scout Cutter, and Laser 4.7, while the "C-Fleet" might contain Moths, Laser full and radial, Finn, and 470.
After the four flights are completed, results will be tabulated, and handicaps formulated for the final race. The top few boats of each fleet will then take part in the final race, which will have a mark-foy start.
We are also reserving the right, depending upon numbers and time, to draw a few wildcard entries from a hat for the final race. I've got my hopes pinned on this, it's the only chance I'll have to get in a sailing boat all weekend!
So, the final race could have an Opti, a Bic, a Laser, a 470, and a Noelex 22. or absolutely anything else!
The start times for the final race will be the reverse of the average times from the flight races. This way, absolutely anyone could win the final.
It's winner-take-all and it should be great for spectators!
Sunday 8th april will be the actual Manukau interclub Regatta, where those clubs that are on the Manukau Harbour compete as teams for the shield. French Bay YC hold the shield at present.
Two long-course races are scheduled, with different fleets racing in different areas.
Registration opens 8am both days, briefing at 9am, first warning signal at 0930.
On Sunday, breakfast is also available at the club from 7:30am.
A two day event, each day stands alone.
Saturday 7th April sees a sprint series, where each competitor sails four short races against similar boats. as an example, The "A-Fleet" could have Optimist, P Class,and O'pen Bic, the "B-Fleet" could comprise Starling, Sunburst, Frostbite, Topper, Scout Cutter, and Laser 4.7, while the "C-Fleet" might contain Moths, Laser full and radial, Finn, and 470.
After the four flights are completed, results will be tabulated, and handicaps formulated for the final race. The top few boats of each fleet will then take part in the final race, which will have a mark-foy start.
We are also reserving the right, depending upon numbers and time, to draw a few wildcard entries from a hat for the final race. I've got my hopes pinned on this, it's the only chance I'll have to get in a sailing boat all weekend!
So, the final race could have an Opti, a Bic, a Laser, a 470, and a Noelex 22. or absolutely anything else!
The start times for the final race will be the reverse of the average times from the flight races. This way, absolutely anyone could win the final.
It's winner-take-all and it should be great for spectators!
Sunday 8th april will be the actual Manukau interclub Regatta, where those clubs that are on the Manukau Harbour compete as teams for the shield. French Bay YC hold the shield at present.
Two long-course races are scheduled, with different fleets racing in different areas.
Registration opens 8am both days, briefing at 9am, first warning signal at 0930.
On Sunday, breakfast is also available at the club from 7:30am.
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Hot trailer yacht action at Weymouth
Todays third day of the TY summer series at Weymouth provided some intense racing and very close finishes.
The day dawned overcast and raining, with very little wind. By the time everyone was rigged and ready to go, the breeze was up to around 15 knots, and the rain had gone away for a bit.
Course 2 was chosen from the book for the first race, which saw boats starting in the river mouth, racing up towards the cosmo club, before heading further south, towards Papakura.
After an even start, Murray and Rob L, in the quicksilver took an early lead, with Rob K in the beachcomber, and Aaron, Gina, and kids in the cherry close behind. Beating upwind from Shark Island, the cherry crew hooked into a favourable shift early on, and took the lead, just ahead of the quicksilver.
After beating for a mile, these two boats were still within a few meters as they rounded the cosmo club marker, while the beachcomber had lost a little ground. On the flat run back out to Shark, the gaps remained fairly similar, as none of the boats could quite reach escape velocity and get planing properly.
The next leg, heading towards the Papakura motorway, was a very close reach, and with the breeze still just below planing conditions, the longer waterline of the beachcomber came into play, and Rob came charging up on the other two. Both 16 footers just managed to hold the front placings rounding the next mark, and then managed to maintain their advantage on the downwind leg. The next leg, again upwind, allowed the cherry to open up a bigger lead, mostly thanks to the others getting out of phase with the shifts.
From then on, the race became a procession, as the gaps were big enough that no-one could challenge the others.
The second race was just a windward-leeward sprint, starting and finishing in front of Wattle downs, to allow the beachcomber time to get back on the mooring before the tide ran away. Another even start saw the beachcomber leading the way, ahead of the quicksilver and cherry. approaching the windward mark, thats how the positions stayed, until all three boats got into the strong opposing tide. At this point, the cherry again managed to scrape around first, with the other two boats scrapping it out for second, just a few seconds behind. Downwind to the finish, the beachcomber and quicksilver were each trying to get past the other, which allowed the cherry an easy win, and in a photo finish, the quicksilver again managed to finish second, just barely ahead of the beachcomber.
Then the rain came, and we all ended up sailing back to the club sopping wet. But above all, it was a good day on the water, enjoyed by all who went out.
One more day, two more races, and the final results will be known.
The day dawned overcast and raining, with very little wind. By the time everyone was rigged and ready to go, the breeze was up to around 15 knots, and the rain had gone away for a bit.
Course 2 was chosen from the book for the first race, which saw boats starting in the river mouth, racing up towards the cosmo club, before heading further south, towards Papakura.
After an even start, Murray and Rob L, in the quicksilver took an early lead, with Rob K in the beachcomber, and Aaron, Gina, and kids in the cherry close behind. Beating upwind from Shark Island, the cherry crew hooked into a favourable shift early on, and took the lead, just ahead of the quicksilver.
After beating for a mile, these two boats were still within a few meters as they rounded the cosmo club marker, while the beachcomber had lost a little ground. On the flat run back out to Shark, the gaps remained fairly similar, as none of the boats could quite reach escape velocity and get planing properly.
The next leg, heading towards the Papakura motorway, was a very close reach, and with the breeze still just below planing conditions, the longer waterline of the beachcomber came into play, and Rob came charging up on the other two. Both 16 footers just managed to hold the front placings rounding the next mark, and then managed to maintain their advantage on the downwind leg. The next leg, again upwind, allowed the cherry to open up a bigger lead, mostly thanks to the others getting out of phase with the shifts.
From then on, the race became a procession, as the gaps were big enough that no-one could challenge the others.
The second race was just a windward-leeward sprint, starting and finishing in front of Wattle downs, to allow the beachcomber time to get back on the mooring before the tide ran away. Another even start saw the beachcomber leading the way, ahead of the quicksilver and cherry. approaching the windward mark, thats how the positions stayed, until all three boats got into the strong opposing tide. At this point, the cherry again managed to scrape around first, with the other two boats scrapping it out for second, just a few seconds behind. Downwind to the finish, the beachcomber and quicksilver were each trying to get past the other, which allowed the cherry an easy win, and in a photo finish, the quicksilver again managed to finish second, just barely ahead of the beachcomber.
Then the rain came, and we all ended up sailing back to the club sopping wet. But above all, it was a good day on the water, enjoyed by all who went out.
One more day, two more races, and the final results will be known.
Monday, February 27, 2012
Bumpy rides for the trailer yachts
Sunday 26th saw the second day of the Weymouth Yacht Club TY summer series, and what a day it was!
Before the start, it was decided that, in the light winds at the time, and with a favourable forecast, a course around and beyond the Wiri LPG terminal was a good idea.
As the local Waka Ama paddlers were out in force, we decided to start directly in front of the clubhouse, which was just off to the side of their course.
It would have been an impressive sight, with around ten Wakas, four racing yachts, and several sea scout boats all whizzing around, plus of course the local fisho's motoring in and out.
Of course, the breeze then started to build, and then build some more.
At the start, Aaron, sailing with six year old Ashley as crew in the Cherry, acted as gate boat, and with the breeze now up, they couldn't hold the boat down, so sailed the beat with no jib.
After almost a mile of beating, Murray and Ajith in the Quicksilver rounded the first mark just ahead of the two Rob's in the Beachcomber, with the Cherry a little further back in third, while Pete, sailing the Paper Tiger was just behind them, having turned back to rescue his hat!
The next part of the course was interesting, as the gusts off the headland laid most of the boats on their ear at some point. As this was a close reach, Pete put the hammer down on the cat and disappeared into the distance, rounding the LPG terminal a good ten minutes in front. This was more of a feat than it seems, as the waves out there were over a metre high by this stage, and the breeze approaching 20 knots.
Sadly for Pete, he rounded the terminal the wrong way, which meant he was not classed as a finisher in the race. On the way back, even though he was backing off quite a bit, the cat proved to be faster than the rescue boat on several occasions.
As the first trailer yachts approached the terminal, Murray still held a slight lead over Rob, with the Cherry, still with no jib, well behind in third.
Rounding the terminal, things went slightly wrong for Rob, and they lost a lot of ground, slipping back to the point where they rounded the next mark only just ahead of Aaron.
Turning downwind for the ride home, Murray now held a commanding lead, and would be unchallenged for the rest of the day. The beachcomber and the cherry started their usual drag race, and, with the wind now behind the boats, Aaron hoisted his jib, whilst Rob put up a bigger one.
The cherry, being lighter, planed most of the way back, slowly gaining on the beachcomber. Aaron decided to stay well to leeward, away from the shore, while Rob decided to go high, out of the tide.
Rounding the final mark before the finish, the cherry was just ahead, and managed to hold the lead to the finish.
So, after three races, we have had three winners. The rest of the series is shaping up to be great - join us for some more hot action!
Before the start, it was decided that, in the light winds at the time, and with a favourable forecast, a course around and beyond the Wiri LPG terminal was a good idea.
As the local Waka Ama paddlers were out in force, we decided to start directly in front of the clubhouse, which was just off to the side of their course.
It would have been an impressive sight, with around ten Wakas, four racing yachts, and several sea scout boats all whizzing around, plus of course the local fisho's motoring in and out.
Of course, the breeze then started to build, and then build some more.
At the start, Aaron, sailing with six year old Ashley as crew in the Cherry, acted as gate boat, and with the breeze now up, they couldn't hold the boat down, so sailed the beat with no jib.
After almost a mile of beating, Murray and Ajith in the Quicksilver rounded the first mark just ahead of the two Rob's in the Beachcomber, with the Cherry a little further back in third, while Pete, sailing the Paper Tiger was just behind them, having turned back to rescue his hat!
The next part of the course was interesting, as the gusts off the headland laid most of the boats on their ear at some point. As this was a close reach, Pete put the hammer down on the cat and disappeared into the distance, rounding the LPG terminal a good ten minutes in front. This was more of a feat than it seems, as the waves out there were over a metre high by this stage, and the breeze approaching 20 knots.
Sadly for Pete, he rounded the terminal the wrong way, which meant he was not classed as a finisher in the race. On the way back, even though he was backing off quite a bit, the cat proved to be faster than the rescue boat on several occasions.
As the first trailer yachts approached the terminal, Murray still held a slight lead over Rob, with the Cherry, still with no jib, well behind in third.
Rounding the terminal, things went slightly wrong for Rob, and they lost a lot of ground, slipping back to the point where they rounded the next mark only just ahead of Aaron.
Turning downwind for the ride home, Murray now held a commanding lead, and would be unchallenged for the rest of the day. The beachcomber and the cherry started their usual drag race, and, with the wind now behind the boats, Aaron hoisted his jib, whilst Rob put up a bigger one.
The cherry, being lighter, planed most of the way back, slowly gaining on the beachcomber. Aaron decided to stay well to leeward, away from the shore, while Rob decided to go high, out of the tide.
Rounding the final mark before the finish, the cherry was just ahead, and managed to hold the lead to the finish.
So, after three races, we have had three winners. The rest of the series is shaping up to be great - join us for some more hot action!
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
What's happening..... in the weekend.
Saturday -
Weymouth YC has training at 11:45.
FBYC Regatta runs both days - arrive 10:30.
Waiuku YC have a Clarks beach trip.
Sunday -
Weymouth YC has race 2 of the Trailer Yacht Summer Series, Briefing at 11:30.
MYMBC has the final day of their series C, at 13:30.
FBYC regatta continues, also summer series 4. arrive at 11:00.
Waiuku return journey from Clarks beach.
And of course, for any laser sailors.....
Panmure Lagoon Sailing Club are holding the 35th annual;
RSA Regatta - open to all laser 1 rigs ( Standard, radial, 4.7 )
Registration from 0900,
Briefing 0945
First warning signal 1030 sharp.
Weymouth YC has training at 11:45.
FBYC Regatta runs both days - arrive 10:30.
Waiuku YC have a Clarks beach trip.
Sunday -
Weymouth YC has race 2 of the Trailer Yacht Summer Series, Briefing at 11:30.
MYMBC has the final day of their series C, at 13:30.
FBYC regatta continues, also summer series 4. arrive at 11:00.
Waiuku return journey from Clarks beach.
And of course, for any laser sailors.....
Panmure Lagoon Sailing Club are holding the 35th annual;
RSA Regatta - open to all laser 1 rigs ( Standard, radial, 4.7 )
Registration from 0900,
Briefing 0945
First warning signal 1030 sharp.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Inaugural TY race at Weymouth
Well, despite our best efforts, the fleet that turned up for the first race specifically for trailer yachts was only attended by the three local boats, which was a shame because the weather was perfect, and the racing was pretty intense too!
The first race, designated as course 3, started well, and Murray and Pete in the Quicksilver took an early lead on the downhill run after the start. Unfortunately, about a mile into the leg they suffered a broken rudderblade, which put them out for the day. At that point the beachcomber sailed by Rob and Ajith had an almost dead even placing with Aaron and Gina (plus kids) in the Cherry.
Rounding the first mark, the cherry managed to just get their nose in front, while the smaller jib chosen by the beachcomber guys was proving to be just a little too small in the lighter patches, leaving them underpowered on the beat, and losing ground. Halfway around the course, they changed up to the bigger one again,but it was too late, as the cherry took an easy victory.
The second race, sailed close to the Papakura motorway (course 4), was a much closer affair, as the big genoa did it's job, with both boats close together for the duration. Rob was seen doing a couple of 360's early on,after being knocked flat by sudden gusts. Each of these helped Aaron to get back in front. After an hour of racing, both boats were side by side, with around ten minutes of course left.
Rob lead going into the last mark, only to lose his advantage in a shift that favoured Aaron. Half way up the beat, both boats converged in a classic port/starboard, and Aaron managed to tack into a safe leeward position, executing what could be called a perfect lee-bow, slowing rob just enough to sneak ahead. Then it was Aaron's turn to get the wrong shift, and Rob managed to cross just in front again. With only around 100 metres to go, and one tack left, that was the end, as the beachcomber finished around 20 seconds ahead of the cherry.
So, that's how it stacked up on the first day, two good races, awesome weather, and even points. With the boats currently racing, line honours will count for series points, ratings will only be used if we get some visiting boats of different designs.
The first race, designated as course 3, started well, and Murray and Pete in the Quicksilver took an early lead on the downhill run after the start. Unfortunately, about a mile into the leg they suffered a broken rudderblade, which put them out for the day. At that point the beachcomber sailed by Rob and Ajith had an almost dead even placing with Aaron and Gina (plus kids) in the Cherry.
Rounding the first mark, the cherry managed to just get their nose in front, while the smaller jib chosen by the beachcomber guys was proving to be just a little too small in the lighter patches, leaving them underpowered on the beat, and losing ground. Halfway around the course, they changed up to the bigger one again,but it was too late, as the cherry took an easy victory.
The second race, sailed close to the Papakura motorway (course 4), was a much closer affair, as the big genoa did it's job, with both boats close together for the duration. Rob was seen doing a couple of 360's early on,after being knocked flat by sudden gusts. Each of these helped Aaron to get back in front. After an hour of racing, both boats were side by side, with around ten minutes of course left.
Rob lead going into the last mark, only to lose his advantage in a shift that favoured Aaron. Half way up the beat, both boats converged in a classic port/starboard, and Aaron managed to tack into a safe leeward position, executing what could be called a perfect lee-bow, slowing rob just enough to sneak ahead. Then it was Aaron's turn to get the wrong shift, and Rob managed to cross just in front again. With only around 100 metres to go, and one tack left, that was the end, as the beachcomber finished around 20 seconds ahead of the cherry.
So, that's how it stacked up on the first day, two good races, awesome weather, and even points. With the boats currently racing, line honours will count for series points, ratings will only be used if we get some visiting boats of different designs.
Friday, February 10, 2012
This weekend - Feb 11/12.
Weymouth Yacht Club starts their inaugural Trailer Yacht Summer Series. Sunday at 11:30 for briefing.
PLSC has a river race - briefing at 09:30 Sunday.
MYMBC has trailer yacht racing on Sunday - Briefing at 12:30.
Waiuku YC are hosting the Finn Masters over the weekend.
PLSC has a river race - briefing at 09:30 Sunday.
MYMBC has trailer yacht racing on Sunday - Briefing at 12:30.
Waiuku YC are hosting the Finn Masters over the weekend.
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