Alton Water Frostbite Series Sponsored by Anglian Water & Fox's Chandlery Day 4
by Archie Hainsworth 28 Jan 21:29 GMT
28 January 2024
Alton Water Frostbite Series Day 4 © Archie Hainsworth
This Sunday resumed the action where it was left off from our second day a couple of weeks ago. Sadly Day 3 suffered at the hands of Storm Isha, closing the Orwell Bridge and therefore making transport for a number of our sailors difficult.
It seems the weather gods listened to us for this week however, with not a cloud in the sky on a comparatively toasty day compared to previous. We had a consistent light breeze from the South, shaking up the course area compared to previous weeks. With an average of around 6kn, with gusts hovering between 10 & 12kn, this set a good foundation to lay a large trapezoid course following the positive feedback of our symmetric fans. The oscillations whilst laying did make us wonder which side of the line was going to by bias by the time the class flag was lowered on the 'GO' gun.
With a slightly more varied slow fleet today, we decided to go all in with just the one fleet start making for some more competitive action on the line, where everybody remained well behaved.
Whilst my time on the water itself was limited to course laying, I particularly enjoyed focusing on the Cadet Fleet this week. Following their previous Y&Y article feedback, combined with a couple of intensive training weekends hosted at the centre in between, it was great to see an improved etiquette when talking about mark room particularly between the lead boats. The RC made a point to mention a hands up apology from an infringing boat whilst spinning, so great to see their training weekends with us seem to be paying off!
It was particularly nice to see one of our younger sailors who has been doing his RYA courses with us through the last year take his Optimist (6203) out to brave the cold with his father taking a centre boat out to join him. He completed 2/3 races we sailed today, making up one of our lost races from last week. A particular achievement, considering he has never raced before and braving the cold to do so too - a little different compared to his summer sailing! A big well done to him and of course everyone on the water - site visitors do admire those 'mad' enough to be out there, and so all of you are an inspiration!
Results will soon be (if not already) displayed on the 'Alton Water Frostbite Results' page on Facebook, as well as the centre Lobby.
We are expecting quite high numbers next week for Races 9, 10 and 6, which is being sailed following it's postponement last week. Do come down and join us as the weather continues to improve into February. Please do come down and join us for another Sunday of fun filled popular racing for all ages.
Finally, for anyone who is wanting to volunteer! I am running a small weekly photo competition (cafe-based prizes) for those who volunteer with us on the safety boat team as well as the committee boat. Best picture wins!
Well done on getting to the end of February team.