We had taken a list of expected competitors, worked out dinghies and crews, and counted for the refreshments. The triangular course and starting sequence had been introduced in group sessions, we’d had lots of encouraging family support, but we couldn’t rely on a favourable wind, and as it turned out, had to adjust on the day.
A flat sea and almost absent breeze, so Jerry postponed for at least half an hour. A chance to learn about AP, flown from the deck with appropriate sound signals.
Should we go down the coast in PJ and Ribs, or hang on to see if the sea breeze settled? The Ribs were launched and moored on the landing pontoon.
The dinghies to the slipway was delayed or we’d have obstructed anyone else trying to launch. Great turn out of our young sailors – 33 U18s in 28 dinghies, single-handers dominated – ILCAs and Optimists. LRSS owns the Fusions and Picos we used, our thanks to them.
While hoping the breeze would fill in, Josh showed sailors how to rig the Fusion 2s being used for the first time.
Jerry and Tim spotted ruffles and patches of wind, so PJ set off with Ribs to lay the course. It was hot and we checked rigging, sunscreen, water, snacks. Oppies had held off and rigged last. There was a friendly buzz, many first -time competitors. We monitored radios, Katherine lowered AP, Jane released dinghies, all launched in a short time and set off to get to PJ.
Some of the slower boats were defeated by the tide as they came to cross the line at their class starting signal and even got a tow! Beating upwind was hard for everyone in the fickle breeze and frustrating for the less experienced young sailors. Most made it and the ILCAs did 2 races, all the Oppies all got round with Tim keeping them together.
Jerry and team did a great job on the water.
Back in, the recovery team on hand, everyone packed up and got ready for the excellent BBQ from Jo, Sarah and team chefs Chris and Matt.
Over 70 sailors, families and volunteers joined in. Spirits improved!
Allan and Dave helped Pauline with the results, not easy as some did not complete races, did not have sail numbers and were not in the club system previously.
We finished with the prize giving, applauding the winners in each class who were given an engraved LRSC Youth Prizewinner glass and a prize from our sponsors, Ovington Boats and CoastWatersports. We had caps and t shirts for competitors. The winner of the ILCAs, Josh Dean, thanked Jerry and team, all the volunteers and Jerry for the race coaching sessions, presenting him with a bottle of wine. David thanked co-ordinator Sally and gave her a bunch of flowers.
Thanks to all the sailors and their families, our volunteer teams and parents who made it work. And to our volunteers who run our 4 Youth training groups, and LRSC committee for their support.
Photos by Jim and Dave follow through the day.
Getting ready
Starting and trying to sail upwind. 4 of the 6 Oppies. The ILCAs.
Prize winners. Group. Noah. Noah. Josh. Isla P
