Spring Race 3

An opportunity to sail again today was much appreciated.  Keith agreed to helm as Jim was unavailable and a new sailor Gerain, who has barely ever handled a sail sheet, was promised a ride by my significant other!  Keen, enthusiastic and willing he was given an opportunity to tackle some quite blustery conditions.  Keith has never helmed Pathfinder or in a race,  however we gave it our best.  A stiff sea breeze saw us tacking furiously to windward to the furthest mark on the bay.  It gave us plenty of practice at tacking and really showed how poorly the yacht sails to windward. She certainly does not point well. Keith found it a challenge to get the best from her.  Reaching and running before the wind was far better but we were not able to make up much of the ground lost through poor sail handling and the problems sailing to windward.  There were 16 yachts again in the race and we were 9th on Handicap so we are consistent. More practice is really needed and Gerain is keen to have another go. Keith and I hope Jim will be available and willing again next week.   I will try to get Gerain a sail with one of the more experienced crews so he gets a feel for racing in a range of boats. 'Till the next time - happy sailing...