IOCA South Pre Zone Winter Training Session 2 at Bosham Sailing Club
by Roger Cerrato 24 Nov 08:07 GMT
17 November 2019
IOCA South Pre Zone Winter Training Session 2 at Bosham © Andy Kerr
This week thirteen keen young Optimist sailors made their way to Bosham Sailing Club for the second IOCA South Pre Zone session on November 17th.
Unlike some becalmed inland events which left sailors bored ashore, the Bosham participants were rewarded with a gentle consistent breeze and unmistakably wintery looking skies.
The coaching team of Andy Kerr, Chay Taylor and Henry Chandler planned to revisit and develop boat handling in the morning. At the suggestion of Henry, a carousal session focusing on steering using balance and sail trim, slow speed boat handling and mark rounding was set up. A tight sailing area and a gentle tidal flow added to the challenge which all the sailors met and exceeded.
After a lunch largely consisting of chips an energy demanding tacking session was devised. Smooth steering and keeping speed was the aim of the day. As usual the day finished with two short races, once again run by the sailors. Well done to Tom Eastwood for a first and a second, and for Chay for squeezing into an Optimist despite being at least 6 years over the age limit and possibly a kilo or two over the recommended weight! Chay just managed to disrupt Tom's winning streak!
A big well done to all the sailors who remained enthusiastic and kept focusing on their sailing during four hours afloat in chilly light winds.