| Revival Yacht Race a success! |
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Saturday saw much work being done by owners to get their yachts in ship-shape order. By Sunday morning everyone was ready with skippers and crew excited and eager to set sail. Colleen and Elanor prepared a wonderful breakfast, big thanks to Pete for slaving over the stove, which filled the tummies of the crews and supportors. Even though there was a short delay caused by an issue with electricity, everyone had eaten and was ready for the Skippers Briefing. Deon, Stuart and Colin held the briefing and explained the starting order and course. The starting order was arranged according to the various handicaps and agreed by everyone promptly. The first yacht left at 10h15 with the last leaving nearly 30 minutes later. Colin stood at the starting line where the Daimler Ferries come along aside. Even with his hoarse voice was eagerly attempting to shout encouragement and advice. All yachts started the race without issue, however through a bit of confusion Gypsy with Deon skippering and Stuart as crew struggled through a tack and were blown against the quay wall. Colin jumped to their rescue assisting the two sailors to leave off again. Many of the yachts struggled up the harbour while Gary Midlane, leaving last, seemed to sail up between everyone. In these close quarters many skippers learnt a little more about their yachts and characteristics of the wind in the harbour area. Once out of the port the field opened up while heading to the turning point at the Osner Hotel. A second lap was planned turning at the entrance to the port at the ELYC shore and then it was back to the Osner Hotel. Gary and Roy made it back in good time but unfortunately by the time the others completed their first lap the wind had dead down and very little way was being made. At this point, most of the crews excitement had died away and the idea of a few beers and a braai appealed more than simply bobing along. So slow dead runs back with motors being started ended the race for the remaining entrants. Keith and Derek were persistant though, adamant they were going to finish, completed their 2nd lap crossing the finish line an hour and a half later the first yacht to return. The results of the race were as follows: 1st place Gary Midlane 2 hrs 03 2nd place Roy Crosley 2 hrs 45 3rd place Keith Wilcox 3 hrs 28 John Senar DNF Wayne Vd Merve DNF Tony Vd Merve DNF Deon Mc Intyre DNF All yachts returned safely and all sailors enjoyed a day of sailing. The next race is scheduled for the 13th March 2011 same time, 09h00 for 10h00 sharp. A big thank you to Colleen, Elanor and Pete for the breakfast. Thanks to Colin, Deon and Stuart for organising the race and finally a huge thank you to everyone else who came along to support the entrants and enjoy the day with us. |
