Hugo went to Geelong on the weekend of Sept. 22 to participate to the Spring Sail Racing. The fleet sailed 8 races in 15-20 knots and Hugo finished 12 of 35. Consistently in the top 12, an OCS on the first race did not allow him to get into the top 10.
The following weekend (Sept 29), we drove to Lake Macquarie for the NSW Youth Championship. A bigger (82 boats) and more experienced (good sailors from NSW, QLD, ACT and NZL) fleet joined this very well-run regatta. This was a 5-day weekend: Thursday driving, Friday practicing, Saturday to Monday racing and driving back during night. Dad needs to work! 😉
Hugo started well with a 28 and a 16 on the first day. He was very pleased with his day as it was a windy day. The 2nd race was sailed in 22-25 knots – very tough conditions for Optimist. The day was abandoned and no 3rd race in these conditions.
The 2nd day (with shifty wind conditions between 8 and 18 knots) was long and up and down 57, 23, 34, 45. With good starts Hugo managed some good races except the 4th race of the day where he started last due to a penalty from the jury 10 sec before the start. ☹ Funny enough, between race 2 and 3, Hugo picked up the Jury’s hat off the water. The Jury said “thank you! If you have a protest, I will remember you”. He obviously quickly forgot! 😉
The 3rd day (a bit lighter than day 2) was, again, up and down with a 31st, 69th and 42nd. After 2 discards, Hugo finishes 39th of 82. He was a bit disappointed and understands he need to be more consistent.
It is worth mentioning the current National Champion's results. David Links could not sail on Day 1 and still managed to win with 1, 3, 1, 1, 1, 1 and 5. Impressive!
Next regatta: Sail Sandy in Sandringham, on Oct 13 and 14.
See some great photos from the regatta in the club gallery
Xavier.
