“Whats my course?”
The chairman has referred, in her welcome, to changes from last years programme and schedule of races.
A lot of time has been spent attempting to keep it simple and avoid errors and aggravation. However, like juggling ostrich eggs, things can sometimes get a little difficult.
Whatever class you are sailing in, there will be some consistency through the regatta. For instance, start times will be the same every day and your start will usually follow the same class as yesterday. The exceptions are when some classes have more than one race per day and during the mid week series when fewer classes will be up for the start.
The key is to check your race schedule every day and this includes noting your start line. The spectre of a lone competitor approaching the wrong start line, wondering where the opposition has gone, may amuse the denizens on the committee boat but won’t help your results one bit.
On the first Saturday 7 classes have two races and two of these start their second from the CYC line, Check it out. On Sunday 10 classes have a second race and 4 of these are from the CYC.
Could it be you?
Monday is relatively normal and Tuesday/Wednesday are straightforward.
However, Thursday arrives and 6 classes start from CYC to journey inland on the dreaded upriver courses. Don’t forget your wine gums. Friday is all change and the cruisers will be testing the accuracy of depth sounders and the call for water may be the critical call of the day.
Trophy day and we will all be “up for `t cup”. If conditions allow you may find yourself passing through the town on a 'Fly the Flag' sail past. Enjoy.
Little known factoid – course setters were once sailors. Discuss.
Frank Curtis