LIGHT AIRS
Though the forecast for our late Sunday series of the Icicle’s promised light airs (6-9Knts) with a cold snap, we went out! The hardy sailors left EDYC slip and headed for the start in Holme Bay. The first PY Fleet, ILCA 4’s, 6’s, and a 7 (Lasers), the Wayfarer, and the RS 400 were to go at 2pm. With a clean start shown by all, the second PY fleet of Toppers successfully followed shortly after.
As the day unfolded the forecast proved accurate, which meant a slower pace than normal for everyone.
With this spare time conversations could be heard among the participants as they sailed around the course.
WITH TIME TO REFLECT
Among the committee, we chatted about the numbers of club volunteers involved to put on a series like this one. Beginning with the support of EDYC Executive led by Stephen (Commodore) and Keith (Vice Commodore) who encoursged an event like this to happen.
We then began counting the support teams helping on this particular day. We counted 3 people on board the committee boat, keeping track of the competitors and recording results.
Three safety boats with a total of 6 crew were at hand, at windward and leeward positions.
The January/February event is hosted by EDYC and follows the late dinghy series around our shores. This began with the Die Hards in Killyleagh Yacht Club (September and October) and followed by the Coolers at Strangford Sailing Club (November and December). Thanks to all the volunteers from around our clubs who work hard alongside these hardy sailors to ‘get on the water’.
The shore party consists of two who efficiently manage departures/retrievals of dinghies.
With many others helping in the preparations of safety boats; the updating of weekly results; and those providing a warm welcome to the returning participants. We eventually agreed that there was over eleven officials. These people had come together to provide eleven dinghies, two competitive and safe races.
FICKLE WINDS AND STRENGTHENING TIDES…
As the first race came to an end it became clear that the fickle winds and strengthening tide
would determine the outcome. The first fleet was led expertly, in both races, by Patrick in his ILCA 7 (206870). With second being fought between the ILCA 6 (198526) of Meredith and the Wayfarer (10596) of Gordan and Rachel. The second fleet tended to find the conditions more of a challenge. The characteristic tide of Strangford playing havoc with the sailor’s tactics. Nonetheless, Rose (47611) managed two convincing firsts with competition for second and third being fought out between Marge (T3) and Kate (46308).
When the racing ended everyone appreciated great sailing while staying safe.
