A bright sunny day greeted the crews this morning, but as is often the case at this time of year in Melbourne, the breeze had yet to be part of the program. The AP flag (Answering Pennant – used to advise crews that the race time was postponed) was hoisted on the Club’s mast. This was convenient as it gave a little extra time to share some knowledge and experience with the newer crews via a briefing of coaches from other clubs.
The hint of a breeze snuck across the bay, Race Officer Paul made the call, then two short blasts of the horn and the AP was lowered – day 3 racing was underway, crews to leave the beach ASAP and sail to the racecourse about half a mile North West of RBYC in perfectly flat sea.
On arrival, the breeze didn’t quite settle, the axis swinging 20 degrees from about 190 to 210 degrees. The AP was hoisted on the start boat while the breeze decided what direction it was to come from. It came in, the AP lowered and the start sequence for Quests started shortly afterward.
Patience is always rewarded and a nice gentle breeze allowed a start and what was most pleasing to all the coaches – almost the entire fleet of Quest sailors hit the line as one. Makes you proud to be a coach. While the ‘gun’ sailors are expected to do this, the fact that the newbies were right in the mix at the start means that they have all learned so much in such a short period – just a few races and see what the crews are doing, and that is just so cool! Well done everyone.
Sadly the breeze had nothing in it and after a slow and tedious race, the RO (Race Officer) called it quits and with ‘AP’ over code flag ‘H’ – the crews were sent home for lunch – hoping that more breeze might get us back on the course.
Quick lunch and back to the task. 12Ft Cadets and Quests left the beach like there was a prize for getting to the starting area first!
Another ripper start for the entire Quest fleet – great work team, followed closely by the 12Ft Cadets. A couple of the Cadet skippers got a bit anxious and an individual recall was signaled for two boats OCS (on course side – over the line early). All good practice, eh?
A highlight for spectators on the water was when both fleets came together at the bottom mark. Good skills and great sportsmanship was demonstrated by all sailors. Well done.
The day finished hot and bothered and liquid refreshment ashore was looking good.
Huge thanks to the Race Management team for getting through a challenging day and delivering another fabulous day of yacht racing for both fleets.
Ray Smith
