Although any day you sail does not count against you, tonight was exceptional. We had 4 boats out in a brisk SW breeze. This was the closest sailing we have had in a couple of years. Short course and starts within feet of each other, lots of passing and downwind planing. Sailed with PL on GJ against DS/JR and Bullet/Recess. Unfortunately, the VidCam ran out of batteries 2 minutes before the 1st start and we did not have enough time to change them – just some pre-start video. We would have had some VERY exciting video. That was the worst thing that happened. Interestingly (maybe) we would have not been able to sail here the night before because the Secret Service would have stopped us, Obama was at one of the houses in the background for a fundraiser.
It there any other downside? Yes. I overhiked yesterday and blew out my right knee and should not have sailed tonight. I even quit early, sailing only 3 races instead of 4. Bursitis – had ice on my knee all night long. On the hospital pain index I topped out at an 8 but have been as low as a 3 today. It was worth it though.
Race notes:
Course from Hunts Pt to Evergreen Pt. SW wind 10+. Big pressure advantage to going west and there was a lift on starboard close to the mark. Overstood it twice. DS may be right, spin sheets need to go on the inside of the lifelines! PL did great foredeck. Lessons: go W near Evergreen Pt and on gybes – ease the new guy very early and swing the main over to keep your speed up and ease foredeck work (see last Thursday’s video for proof).
