Tuesday, April 9, 2013


Sunday, April 7th, 2013 Frostbite
Sam V, Frostbiting PRO, Daily RO Lasers and V15s, DRO Afternoon Sonars

The day began with fair weather, temps in the low 50’s and westerly winds at around 12 kts.  With the High School Invitational taking place in the harbor, as well as frostbiting on the lake, Belmont was abuzz with activity.  Despite the shifty west winds, we were able to start the dinghy course on time with 9 Lasers and 7 Vanguard 15s in attendance.  Nick B. assisted me on the signal boat as DRO, Lynn L handled the windward mark set, and Gaetan C. and Jeff G.i handling the start, finish, and leeward gate.  After the first race, the course was shortened slightly to keep the races to around 20 minutes, with the goal of getting 5 races started before the 12:00 cut off time.

The racers were kept busy with rapid turnarounds.  In order to start and finish fleets simultaneously, Nick and I had the mark set boat come alongside the signal boat to provide an extra set of eyes.  The day went smoothly, in spite of one general recall for the Laser fleet, with no course changes until the wind shifted 120 degrees during the first beat of the 4th race.  Race committee quickly located the N flag, abandoned the race, and reset the course for a 5th race.
After lunch, Nick took over the lead role as RO, and we headed back out for the afternoon Sonar session.  After a 5 minute postponement, the wind settled in and were able to get in 5 quality races.  The first two races saw some aggressive starts with multiple boats over early, but after lengthening the starting line slightly, the excitement diminished and the racers fell in to line.

Back at the club afterwards, several racers approached the race committee with thanks for the quick turnarounds and great racing.  Nick B. took home the Blue Star award for his great service in quickly turning the fleets.

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