We woke this morning to decidedly cooler temps and much stronger breeze. By 10 a.m. the wind was getting up to the 20k limit. Most competitors were hoping tostay on the beach and a few hearty souls (Marshack, Lowry, Evenden, & Ped) were wanting to sail. Eventually we were spared and racing was cancelled for the day.
Now for yesterday, Day 1.
Started in 12k with a slight positive current that had a few OCSs. The wind was quite puffy with gusts 5-12k over median. Nelson/Sullivan got off the line well and led wire-to-wire in the 18 fleet. But they sailed the wrong course when the change mark could not be found. All competitors except Evenden sailed the original course. A bit of controversy ensued when the committee tossed the race.
As the day wore on the wind built. The 2nd race was in medium air, but by the 3rd race it had built into the teens. Sohn locked into his upwind speed while Erwin kept hanging around. Marshack showed the most consistent speed until he auguered in at the gate in the last race while leading.
The river is quite tactical. The middle seems to have the breeze. The WA side has (down river) current (but big waves), and the OR side has flatter water but ocassional holes.
Forecast for tomorrow is for slightly lighter breeze Wed., and then easing Thurs. & Fri.
Hobie Division 4 