Byte training and open event at Calshot Sailing Club
by Rachel Hughes 13 May 2015 09:22 BST
2-4 May 2015
A Byte training and open event was held at Calshot Sailing Club over the bank holiday weekend of 2-4th May. There were 7 participants overall, from several different clubs as far afield as Bristol and Emberton.
On Saturday, we sailed in the creek, an area of sheltered water behind Calshot Spit. It was quite lively (20-22 knots) and as a result gave limited opportunity for on-the-water training. Kevin Moore ran some dry land training including videos and rigging tips. Everyone found this very useful and enjoyable, Kevin was able to answer everyone's questions individually, and we compared set-ups on different boats.
Unfortunately, Sunday was too windy for sailing with 25 knots of wind and raining (heavy showers).
On Monday, the sun came out and there were 3 back-to-back races using the club line around a square course. In the first race the wind was very shifty and light compared to the tide, it was a bit of a drift at times.
During the second race the wind filled in, and club members enjoyed seeing some close fleet racing.
The wind stayed for the third race, and the Bytes enjoyed the chance to sail in some waves. Rachel Moore (Weston SC) was consistent in her performance, 1st in every race. Gary Hogan of Emberton was also consistent in 2nd place. There was more competition for 3rd place, which went to Elaine White of Calshot SC.
After the racing, prizes were awarded, the club thanked the participants for coming and the participants thanked the club. The Bytes were invited back for next year, any other Byte sailors are welcome.