Sunday, May 2, 2010

Strange Start To The 2010 Season - WBRA #1 & #2

Not the start of the season that we are all used too. Light winds, warm weather, strong currents, short courses, and NO racing on the city front as of yet.

April 24th was the first weekend races of the year; Berkeley Circle was the venue, 11 boats dusted off the spider webs and answered the call. After a late arrival of the fleet, and a endless postponement, the first starting guns of the 2010 season were fired. Chris Herrmann on USA 108 took an early, commanding lead on the fleet. Not to be outdone, Peter Jeal (USA 113) and David Wilson (USA 106) rounded the top mark just behind. Peter and David played the right side of the course, while Chris played it safe hovering towards the center while keeping clear air. Well, center paid off, and Chris was untouchable to the finish. Top 5 were:

USA 108
USA 113
USA 106
USA 74
USA 122

The wind came up a little in the second race, I would say <10. Still not the 20-25 westerly that we are used too, but more then the first race. Not too much exciting going on upwind, the regulars rounded 1-5. Peter stayed center while the rest of us played roulette down both sides. Well, once again center paid the largest gains, followed by the right side boats. Top 5 were:

USA 113
USA 106
USA 109
USA 122
USA 108

Not what we are all used too, but much better then sitting on the beach watching others. David Wilson and Peter Jeal haven't missed a beat, while Chris Herrmann and Fred Andersen are showing a definite challenge to them, while Eric Kaiser, Mike Goebel, Brock de Lappe, Richard Keldsen, and myself seem to have a bit of a limp.

On another note, USA 95 "Folksong" was out on the course, after an extensive restoration for the first time in what seems like a decade. Welcome to the fleet Terri and Kimi !!!!!

The next races are scheduled for May 1st, on the Mid-Bay course. See you all out there.

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