Sleigh Ride

After last year's regatta of no wind and much frustration it was a change to wake up to torrential rain. It cleared and we headed out to a decent force four start to our campaign and first race. This was the long inshore race - a beat up to Hurst and out through the north channel and Christchurch bay round a racing mark whose name escapes me, and back again. Those simple words don't reflect the reality. Our start was adequate and we spent the beat making some ground on other boats before rounding the racing mark.

Once round Hurst - much easier than last year in the SW wind - we hoisted the kite for a long sleigh ride back to the line off Cowes. We were happy with 9th place and Peter the novice bowman was initiated into the delights of the broach en route. A brilliant sail all round. Everybody worked hard.

The second race of the day was the first inshore. From the start we beat west to Gurnard then a short reach and a long run. The wind had built and the ambitious who launched a kite had a mixed time of it. Our result of 13th out of the 20 entrants was enough for us.

This evening we visited the Royal London for drinks before retiring to the Pier View for a small sherry and canapes.