After a long layoff due to low water level and more recently some weed, it was decided to test the water with some social racing with DF65’s. This followed attempts to clear the lake over the last week. The problem we then faced was that the wind had changed direction 3 times over the last 3 days, resulting in any floating weed not settling at one end.
Never the less, 11 skippers turned up all eager to get back on the water, for the first time in two months.
A standard windward mark, spreader, gate and finish line were set outwith a good WNW breeze blowing from the far end of the lake. A+ rig was the choice for all, which was sometimes over powered on the run, causing broaching and nose diving. Neil Westbrook volunteered for RO duties and kept us in check on the start line, calling back any early starters.
It didn’t take long to discover the weed was going to affect the days racing, which was a shame and pit stops for de-weeding were common especially in the early races. Although frustrating, most skippers stuck with it and it did mean that a race wasn’t won until the last beat was complete. As the morning progressed it was apparent that the top of the course was getting better but the start area remained a tricky area, due to the debris floating down on the breeze. After 7 races, it was time to finish with a club meeting scheduled for lunch time.
Well done to Clive who was reasonably consistent in avoiding the weed, especially in the later races. Also, well done to John Mackie with a race win and pipping Alan who finished 3rd also with a race win. Finally a big welcome and well done to Sam McDougall, potential new member, finishing in a well deserved 4th place.
Thanks again to Neil for acting as RO, Dave W for the results and Paul P for the the few photos in between “fishing” for debris in the lake.
