The trailers are loaded, the awards are distributed, and the smiles still have not faded. This year's Laser/420 Champs hosted by Stamford was competitive and a good time for everyone, as always.
The first day was as typical as any other in regards to weather. The breeze was light and variable with some moderate chop allowing the occasional usage of hiking straps. The 420's had their own course and just bearing east was the Laser/Radial course. With the assistance of Noroton, the Stamford Race committee was able to run some fair Windward/leeward courses in the breeze that was given to them.
Day 2 started off with a boom...literally. Early morning thunderstorms threatened the continuation of the regatta but fortunately cleared the racing area around 0930. Contrary to what the forecast called, the storms left some wind blowing from the WNW and fluctuating between 6-12kts throughout the day. We were even fortunate enough to sail in some capping conditions for one race.
On the Laser course, one race had to be abandoned just before the first radial crossed the finish line due to a course mishap. Nothing quite Moosehead material. The race committee was quick enough to pick up a drifting leeward mark and startup another race in no time. We like to think of that as a practice race!
To keep things fair, a judge boat followed each class start to monitor the use of Rule 42 (Propulsion). Some people do no always agree with this but in a regatta as competitive as champs, it is often necessary to make sure all races are run fairly and squarely to ensure better sportsmanship, discipline, and fun.
Thanks to a great RC from Stamford and Noroton and congratulations to all the sailors! Results will be up soon so keep checking, and check out our photo albums too!
And thanks to Rick Bannerot for the 420 photos as well.
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