CSORC live race reports

Poole JOG 2011

2011-09-20T21:26:00.002+01:00

Eight crew members gathered at Port Hamble Marina in the sunshine on Friday evening. We were mostly new to J/109s so Richard (owner and skipper) gave us a detailed tour of the deck introducing the bowsprit and demonstrating a hoist of the snuffed kite and bucket. The failing light and the rumbling noises from our stomachs indicated it was time to head or some food. We enjoyed some carbo-loading pasta dishes at Banana Wharf before getting our heads down to ensure we were fully rested for the early start in the morning.

We pushed off the pontoon at 7am, and headed across to the start area off Egypt Point near Cowes, our ears keenly tuned to the weather forecast. The conditions were on the wild side, Force 8 had been mentioned, but we were all game for the trip to Poole so there were a few disappointed faces when the race officer announced the red flag was flying which meant we were staying in the Solent. When the details of the course were announced, it transpired we were indeed heading for Poole, just wasting a bit of time rounding marks in the Solent until the worst of the weather and tide had passed. Smiles all round!

There was a strong south-westerly, and it was a downwind start, so we prepped the number 4 kite following almost to the letter our marina-bound lesson from the evening before. A slick launch was slightly delayed, while we sorted the tack from the clew, but we managed to get it up for a few hundred metres before we reached the first mark. The kite was then stashed safely for the rest of the day as we would be beating upwind for the rest of the race.

Crew on the rail going upwind to Poole

We zig-zagged close inshore up the Western Solent to keep out of the flooding tide, watching the depth carefully to leave our tacks as late as possible. After coming through the Hurst narrows we kept north, leaving North Head to port as the course demanded. There was a decent swell and we were all sat on the rail taking frequent salty showers – I'm sure our grinders appreciated a shower to cool them down after building up quite a sweat doing a great job with all those tacks!

We passed Christchurch and headed straight for the squall between us and the finish line in Studland Bay – a tactical decision which left us drenched but rewarded us with 6th place!

Safely moored up in Poole we turned the boat into a washing line and debriefed while crunching on salt-and-vinegar discos (appreciated more by some than others). Post-showers we gathered in a cosy pub for some peas (mostly served with fish and chips) and then another early night.

Sunday morning brought more rain – nevermind, none of our kit had dried overnight anyway – but with it some fantastic skies decorated with pretty rainbows. Once the nasty stuff had blown through we were treated to a pleasant run all the way home.

Sunday morning - Emily on foredeck ready for the launch

The course was the reverse of the outward leg, leaving North Head to starboard on our way back into the Solent, which gave us plenty of opportunity to learn the dos and don’ts of both inside and outside gybes with the J/109’s asymmetric spinnaker.

Back in Hamble we stripped Jangada Too of her sails (she is dry sailed), briefly using the main as a bivouac, as yet more rain (hail even) came down on us. A fitting end to a fantastic, if slightly wet, weekend!

Many thanks to Richard for allowing us on board Jangada Too, for skippering two great races and for all his patient tuition (especially on rope tidying!).

Emily

Home At Last

2011-08-20T11:59:00.005+01:00

Sitting writing this while looking out of the window at a vista of greenery the last few days seem a little surreal. This being Britain it should be no surprise that in a few days we'd experience everything from a perfect force 4 to a sleigh ride through waves big enough to catch one very surprised garfish unawares, when it was flung bodily into the cockpit in the early hours of Tuesday morning. And then back again to end up drifting in a flat calm with the rays of the setting sun over the headland at Plymouth.

It was very frustrating having the relatively small but significant technical problems that put us out of the race after weathering the storm rather literally, but such is sailing. Shortly after we arrived at Plymouth on Thursday evening something like a third of the fleet arrived in a very short space of time. They'd been becalmed for hours not far offshore and then the wind arrived and swept them up all together, giving the race officers a very busy night. You can read all about it on the RORC site http://fastnet.rorc.org/.

We spent some time recovering and "rehydrating" courtesy of the 24 hour beer tent (it'd be mean to close it to those arriving after last orders), then spent Friday sorting out various things, eating and wandering around Plymouth, which was looking fantastic in the summer sun, particularly the view from the Hoe.

The prize giving was held in the Citadel up on the Hoe in the evening. Blue Juice is going back to Southampton today, with a stop en route as no water pump equals no engine equals no battery charge and hence no lights! The crew, meanwhile have scattered onto trains, into cars and some even onto other boats.

So, a mixed and eventful experience, some of which I'd prefer not to repeat (but probably will), and much of which was great fun at the time and can only get better with hindsight. Once thing is certain - it was a lot better than watching Big Brother.

We will try and put together a more organised report in the fullness of time, so watch the CSORC web site www.csorc.org for that and news of the club in general.

A final big thanks to Trev and all the crew.

Nick

The saga continues...

2011-08-18T20:21:00.001+01:00

We made reasonable progress until about 4pm, when the water pump on the engine started chattering. Thirty minutes later it finally gave up. Leaving us adrift about 5 miles off Plymouth. With little wind and drinking time dwindling, we have admitted defeat and called Sea Start for a tow to Plymouth. Ho hum...

a night at the admiral's

2011-08-18T12:24:00.002+01:00

Thurs 0920
We had a very convivial evening in the Admiral Benbow last night and, although in good mood, had an early night - most turning in by 10ish. We were up bright and early and are now rounding the Lizard on our way to Plymouth, under jib and engine.

Trev

A plan is forming...

2011-08-17T16:35:00.003+01:00

Hmmmmm....

Stacking IS allowed

2011-08-17T12:11:00.003+01:00

Wed 11:48
We're all enjoying a hearty breakfast at Ye Olde Barbican Tea & Coffee Room - Alan is insisting that we maintain our 3500 kCal per day, even when not racing...

Stocking up

2011-08-17T10:41:00.001+01:00

Never wanting for supplies, our trusty crew have received their latest delivery from Ocado, ready to stow aboard in preparation for the trip to Plymouth...

Ow!

2011-08-17T09:34:00.001+01:00

Tuesday 0926
Our first injury! We were all tied up and going for a shower - or should I say showers - we've not been to sea THAT long - and Mike grabbed a halyard instead of a shroud as he was stepping ashore and fell over - and nearly into the harbour. The plasters are satin and very becoming...

Pirates of Penzance

2011-08-17T09:32:00.001+01:00

Hi all,
We're safely tucked up in Penzance harbour, all well and hearty, just in time for a shower and a good pint or three of St Austell ale. Many thanks to all for the messages - yes, it was very disappointing but we're in good mood and looking forward to joining the party in plymouth on friday. We plan to stay here overnight - the jetty seems well stocked with barrels of beer and Andrex, so we should be fine...

Disaster!!!!

2011-08-17T09:29:00.002+01:00

The first inkling of something wrong was when I noticed blue sky from my bunk - a piece of panneling around the mast had fallen away....
A quick - very quick check revealed that three bolts holding a collet supporting the mast at deck level had sheared, leaving the mast waving merrily at the passing waves. We rapidly brought down all sail to prevent a rig collapse and surveyed the damage. Clearly, competitive sailing was out, so sadly, our race was over. We discussed the possibility of a repair at Kinsale, but it looks like a mast-out job and, since the boat is on charter, with the owners on another boat, we were not in a position to get agreement for repair.
So, we are now retired from the race, slowly motoring our way back to plymouth - probably via Penzance to pick up more fuel.
The crew have been brilliant - although everyone is clearly disappointed, spirits are good as we work our way through Emily's cake.
Trev

What a night!

2011-08-17T09:28:00.001+01:00

Tuesday 0730

Well, the forecast 20 to 30 knot winds came in with a vengeance last night, along with a crazy, steep sea that challenged the helms - and it kept it up for most of the night. The wind had increased a little earlier in the evening, necessitating a reef. The first foreboding of something bigger came at around 10, so we put a second reef as a precaution - good call!

We stormed along at up to 10 knots, putting us in a geat position to achieve an extremely good result for the race - maybe even finishing as early as thursday morning. Fingers crossed!

Trev

The search for the deckbrush is a success!

2011-08-15T14:49:00.001+01:00

Monday 10 am
A bout of illness among some of the crew necessitated a clean-up. This was almost thwarted by our inability to locate the deck brush. Luckily, David volunteered to descend into the bowels of the boat, so saving us the ignominy of arriving with a dirty boat.
Trev

On a Charge

2011-08-15T14:40:00.002+01:00

Mon 1430
We're just approaching the Lizard, after a great day's sail. The wind forced us a little south but we're now approaching our turning point for the Scillies in a couple of hours. The crew is well but the boat seems to be objecting to being so far from home - mainly by means of a battery that keeps going flat with alarming regularity - quite literally - with a 12v alarm going off every two or three hours, indicating a re-charge. And now the engine overheat alarm has joined in, even though the engine seems to be running fine, with cooling water running freely. A quick check of the sensor shows it goes off even when disconnected - maybe a short circuit somewhere??? Hope we have enough fuel to keep the electrics running!
Trev

Off Start Point

2011-08-15T14:40:00.001+01:00

0530 Monday
We're going well - put a reef in for a while, when the wind got up above 20 knots but shook it out again after about 6 hours. The wind has shifted about a little, but not as much as forecast and has now lightened considerably - maybe time to change headsails??
Trev

Its rush hour!

2011-08-14T14:03:00.002+01:00

Sun - 40 mins to go...
Its getting quite busy out here! There arer yachts everywhere, wekre hanging around at the back, waiting for our turn. The AIS is teaming with targets and we're threading our way through them.
Not long now!
Trev

Ready for the off

2011-08-14T14:01:00.001+01:00

Sun - 2 hours to the start
Well, we've now registered for the race - time to get these silly sails down and look serious!
T

The last supper

2011-08-14T13:59:00.001+01:00

Had a great meal last night - we're a lot happiet than this - honestly!
Trev

A grim find...

2011-08-14T13:57:00.001+01:00

Sat eve
How kind of the nice peole who chartered the yacht before us, to leave 3 packs of bread rolls tucked in under the seats, above the water tanks. Unfortunately, that was three weeks ago and they are now a little past their best. Sadly, I fear we will have to chuck them...
Trev

Getting ready...

2011-08-14T13:52:00.002+01:00

Sat eve
All getting shipshape - just making sure we can hoist the storm jib and trysail, which RORC require us to use whilst registering tomorrow...then off for a hearty meal at the Royal Southern YC.
Trev

Almost there now!!

2011-08-11T07:51:00.002+01:00

Well, only two days to go!!
The preparations are going well, with most of the food bought – Emily has done a superb job of calculating our needs and organising everybody – she should be an army logistician!!
We’re planning to gather at Ocean Village throughout Saturday – some of the crew have very important, pressing commitments, so will not be there until late (enjoy the rugby, Dan!). There is quite a big job-list, prepping the boat and checking all the gear from top to bottom, stem to stern.
Those nice people at MECSail have got Blue Juice in good order for the race – she was one of the boats selected for inspection by RORC and passed with flying colours.
As well as all the expedition meals, we have eight x 2L bottles of water, currently on Cardice, which will keep them at -40C until we sail – they should provide effective freezer-packs in the fridge!
Nick and I go to Cowes on Saturday afternoon, to pick up the “Skipper’s pack”, decals, flags and tracker and hear the briefing from the RORC Race Officer. Then back to the boat to fit the bits, followed by a hearty meal at the Royal Southampton.
Trev

Two Weeks to Go!

2011-07-29T11:54:00.003+01:00

There are only two weeks to go til this year's Fastnet and full attention is being given to that most important important aspect of offshore racing - the grub! With ten hungry mouths to feed and not that much space to put it, and of course no fridge-freezer, this needs careful attention. But help is at hand and Emily has a spreadsheet with a column for calories. We're going a bit hi-tech this time as a result of Trevor's experiences on the Round Britain and Ireland race - boil in the bag expedition food will make up a large part of our hot food.

Watch this space.

Nick

Manic Myth

2011-05-30T21:06:00.012+01:00

The CSORC Fastnet Crew have now completed their third RORC race of the season on Blue Juice - the Myth of Malham race held over the late May Bank Holiday weekend. We now have sufficient miles under our belt to meet the Fastnet qualifying criteria and what a way to get there. It was easily the most challenging two days of sailing that most of us have experienced.

We prepared for the race in our customary manner; meeting up in Ocean Village on Thursday evening and pre-positioning ourselves in Cowes for the early morning start. On the way across, we made the discovery that the main sail had a small tear on the luff just above the first reefing point. We repaired with tape after arriving in Cowes and, fortunately, it held up to everything the elements threw at us. This left just enough time for a pint and a bite to eat in the Anchor before retiring for the night.

Friday morning arrived with unpromising conditions that proved to be a portent for what was eventually to come - dark grey skies and a fresh NW breeze. After ablutions and breakfast we motored out to register, raised sails and then joined the other yachts jockeying for position at the upwind end of the start line. After a conservative start with one reef in our main, we started the long tack sailing best course to windward all the way to Start Point. This was punctuated by lowering the jib to insert forgotten battens and a makeshift repair to the upper wire of the port guard rail. Equipment failures were to become a recurring theme for the weekend, although the problems we had on Blue Juice were minor compared to some of our competitors. There was one dismasting, one retirement due to a cracked mast, one man overboard - thankfully recovered safely - and several head injuries from swinging booms reported over the VHF as conditions deteriorated on day 2 of the race.

As Friday wore on and we passed Portland Bill the weather improved greatly. The threatened showers did not materialise - except for an impromptu salt water shower for those of us hiking on the windward rail - and by late afternoon we had clear blue skies, albeit with the wind dipping to force 3 Westerly. Our spirits were heartened by Nick's excellent lamb casserole and the magnificent sight of over 60 yachts in our field of view. Start Point was reached around midnight in a freshening breeze, followed by a frustratingly slow beat down to Eddystone in a now choppy sea.

We rounded Eddystone at 06:30 and began the long run home under white sails whilst we got accustomed to the change in conditions and with every intention of raising the spinnaker after gybing round Start Point. The following waves proved to be tricky and wearying for the helm and, by the time we arrived at Start Point the wind had risen to force 6 before eventually peak at force 7 gusting force 8. Discretion prevailed at this point and the kite was returned to the forepeak - a decision that many others arrived at very soon after us.

Arrival at Start Point also demanded a tactical decision; stand on into Lyme Bay to avoid the worst of the opposing tide or gybe out and ride the bigger waves. We went for the Lyme Bay option, gybing when east of Torquay.

Notwithstanding this, we were still proceeding with gritted teeth in very tough conditions and helms were changed regularly as exhaustion took its toll. Special note must go to Trevor for achieving a top speed of 16 knots when surfing a particularly large wave and Brian (pictured top) for dipping the end of the boom into the drink without broaching the boat.

Swanage was passed in early evening and, after gybing into shelter, we fortified our constitutions with some beef stew that had very nearly ended up all over the saloon during preparation. We were all delighted and relieved to reach the finish line at 21:17 in a creditable 85th place out of 113 finishers and sparing a thought for the 11 Did Not Finish entrants.

Andy (bottom picture - awake)

De Guingand Bowl - Greenwich LV and Back

2011-05-18T07:50:00.005+01:00

Crew: Trevor Drew, Nick Bowles, Alan Voysey, Andy Lapsley, Dan Groves, David Balding, Emily Shrosbree, Jonathan Law.

Friday evening saw us gathering excitedly at Ocean Village for our second race with Blue Juice. We headed across to East Cowes to berth for the night, around which we chased some wild geese for a good half hour before finally locating some chop suey and chips. Perhaps not the most nourishing of pre-race suppers, but very welcome nonetheless.

Saturday morning brought sunshine and a modest force 4 for our 08:40 start. We headed west out of the Solent and rounded Bridge, witnessing some very slick spinnaker hoists from our competition [Bob and Tonnere de Breskens!].

We experimented with our own novel spinnaker-hoisting technique (sideways), but soon resorted to more conventional methods and successfully managed our first gybe as a crew. Things then got a bit fruity and having witnessed several boats getting into difficulties we decided it was best to get the jib up and the kite down before we got into any trouble. Not quite soon enough though, as we broached and had to rescue the kite from the water.

Once things had settled down, we dug into some exotic elk meat salami and some rather less exotic regulation ham and cheese rolls to soak up the adrenalin. We continued to keep good pace under white sails, surfing along in beautiful seas to the tune of a planing hull. We rounded the Greenwich Light Ship in lovely evening light, briefly dipping our toes into the eastern hemisphere before starting the long overnight upwind leg.

Two AM saw us bathing in dramatic yellow moonlight as we zig-zagged west towards the entrance to the Solent coming in between No Man's Land and Horse Sand forts. We crossed the line just in time for breakfast, with a further 170 qualifying miles under our lifebelts and a 43^rd placing overall in IRC – a great race!

Emily

Rock 'n roll to Le Havre

2011-05-07T17:24:00.005+01:00

RORC Cervantes Trophy 2011

Crew: Trevor Drew, Nick Bowles, Alan Voysey, Andy Lapsley, Dan Groves, David Balding, Emily Shrosbree, Jane Harris, Jonathan Law, Mike Yogarajah.
It was with some trepidation that the crew assembled at Ocean Village on Friday afternoon, to prepare for the first race of the season, which, for some, was their first offshore race and for others, their first race ever!!
The forecast didn’t do much to allay any anxieties, with strong easterly winds on Saturday, building over the next few days. Accordingly, we made sure everything was ship-shape and set off for Cowes, where we were to spend the night, as we’ve all found it easier to get up at 6am than 4am. A modest libation and a meal at the Anchor was the scene for the major decision of the campaign – what names to give to the two watches. Given the day, it was a no-brainer – I led William Watch and Nick led Kate Watch!
The race course was straightforward, taking us out through the Needles, around the fairway buoy, then easterly beat to the Nab tower and straight to Le Havre. Saturday morning was much as forecast with strong easterlies. This presented two challenges to the relatively novice crew – a spinnaker start and a beat along the southern coast of the island. Given a large fleet of 110 boats, we decided to start on the outer end of the line, which was less populated. And, since the crew had hardly ever flown a spinnaker, we elected to start with the jib and put the spinnaker up later. This, and short confusion as to whether we were OCS, did not give us the best of starts!
But we settled down and led the back of the fleet to the Needles.
Again, with our precautionary approach in the F5-6 winds, we dropped the spinny off Yarmouth and rounded the Fairway buoy without problems and onto the long beat to the Nab against the building ebb. This was hard work, with only a couple of Challenger yachts for company, but we made reasonable time and were fortunate in completing the eastern half of the island on a single beat. We rounded the Nab with some relief, bringing the long beat to an end.
We made our way south, dodging a number of large ships in the process, on one occasion having to pass ahead of one and immediately duck behind another running in parallel. A spectacular thunderstorm announced our safe passage across the channel, but we nipped out under the clouds before the rain fell and the early morning found us off Le Havre. We had to tack a few times to make the finishing line, crossing at 06:34 on Sunday.
The forecast predicted even stronger winds on Monday, so we did a quick U-turn and headed home, filling ourselves with hot chilli and pasta – yum! The early part of the return journey was pretty benign (see pic), but it got windier and lumpier as we got closer to the British coast and, by all accounts, those who stayed in La Havre had a pretty hairy journey back.
Our placing, last in IRC2 and 90th IRC overall might seem a little disappointing, but given the crew’s lack of any spinnaker experience and the strong winds, also coming in only two hours after the leading First 40.7, I’m not disappointed. We came home safe and uninjured, and the race has given the crew a real sense of what they might experience in the Fastnet itself, also giving us something to build on in the future. Thanks to all the crew for their sterling efforts!
Trev

Cervantes Trophy is filled

2011-04-28T18:36:00.004+01:00

We have a full crew list for the RORC Cervantes Trophy race to Le Havre:
Trevor Drew (Skipper); Nick Bowles (1st Mate); David Balding; Dan Groves; Jane Harris; Andy Lapsley; Jonathan Law; Alan Voysey; Michael Yogarajah; Emily Shrosbree.
The race starts on Saturday morning at 07:50 off Cowes - our boat, Blue Juice, is berthed in Ocean Village, Southampton, so we'll go to Cowes on Friday night (Note to self - buy nurofen).
I think Jonathan has volunteered to bring a cooked meal down, so we should be in fine fettle for the race the following morning.
The list of starters is not huge, with 109 boats currently registered - but a very good turnout for the first race of the season. And there are some big boys among them - including the fabulous Farr 52, "Bob" and all four Challenger yachts. Within our Class 2 fleet of 25 yachts, there are four other First 40.7s, along with three Reflex 38s and two Prima 38s - so there will be some pretty close racing. Can't wait!
Trev

Fastnet Campaign - Race training weekend

2011-03-14T20:13:00.008Z

We all met up on the Friday night for an early start...well, almost! [Sorry ... Nick] This was the first opportunity for most of the crew to see the boat that we would be racing. We spent a couple of hours crawling over her, getting to know the nooks and crannies, as well as stowing gear and finding out what all the ropes do. And, of course, a nice meal. We spent the Saturday in the eastern Solent, learning the art of fast tacking and spinnaker launches and drops, along with practising knots and sail trimming. Mooring overnight in Cowes Yacht Haven, we enjoyed an excellent Thai meal, followed by a fair few beers in the Island Sailing Club. On Sunday, we went West, getting used to gybing and a lot more spinnaker work, also practicing man-overboard drill and even trying out the emergency tiller (it worked!). So, we're now all set for our first race to Le Havre!

Trev

And what lovely weather for a first sail of the year. Keep on hiking, guys!

Nick

Wet behind the ears?

2011-03-14T20:00:00.005Z

Well, we completed our ISAF Offshore Safety course. The course was held over two days at Hamble School of Yachting and is a mixture of lectures and practicals on all aspects of yacht safety, emergency drills and survival techniques. We had lots of fun letting off flares and fire extinguishers, as well as “wet work” – involving towing each other up and down the swimming pool, inflating a liferaft, righting it and all piling in - a very efficient way for us all to get to know one another!
Although the ISAF requirements only require a third of the crew to do the course, it is CSORC policy for all to complete it. We are grateful to CSSA for providing a grant for half the cost, which is matched by CSORC, so the course was free to the crew.

Trev

Party!!

2011-03-01T21:33:00.003Z

From the RORC Website:

In an effort to absorb the large waiting list for the Rolex Fastnet Race, the Royal Ocean Racing Club have decided to increase the number of places available to IRC yachts by removing the 'professionally' sailed classes from the 300 entry limit. The Volvo Ocean 70s, IMOCA 60s, Class 40s and Multihulls, who will race under their own class rules, will be counted over and above the previous 300 entry limit.
The Rolex Fastnet Race reached its entry limit 10 days after opening and over 130 boats are on the waiting list. "We were staggered at the speed with which people signed up," said RORC Commodore Andrew McIrvine. "We had to do something to satisfy the huge interest, and taking the non IRC yachts out of the total is a fair solution allowing more loyal RORC racers to get their boats into the race."Removing the non-IRC classes will add about 50 more places to the total. "We are delighted that the Volvo's and IMOCA's want to compete in the race and that the Class 40's are coming en-masse," said RORC Chief Executive, Eddie Warden Owen. "It shows the popularity of the Rolex Fastnet that these professionally sailed boats want to join the race. However without this initiative, they would be taking valuable places away from less experienced offshore racers who view this race as a great personal challenge - their 'Everest' of sailing."
Sutton Harbour increase berthing capacity
To cater for the number of boats arriving in Plymouth, Sutton Harbour Marina has increased the amount of space by making the whole of the berthing area adjacent to West Pier and the Barbican available to the Rolex Fastnet fleet. Sutton Harbour has also become the official berth provider for the race and Chief Executive Nigel Godfroy is pleased to be associated with the race. "Sutton Harbour Marina welcomes the return of this world famous race," said Nigel. "We are very proud of the quality of facilities we have here in Sutton Harbour and being selected as the official berthing provider for the Rolex Fastnet Race. We look forward to welcoming the extra large fleet in August this year."
To accommodate the increased number of entries, space has been booked in Queen Anne's Battery, adjacent to Sutton Harbour and in Plymouth Yacht Haven in the Cattewater, where a water taxi service will be set up to connect competitors with the race office based at Sutton Harbour. The 2011 Rolex Fastnet Race starts in Cowes, Isle of Wight on Sunday 14 August.

Looks like the party's just got bigger!

Trev

Fastnet 2011 Training Weekend is looming

2011-02-20T22:12:00.007Z

It's two weeks until our first training session - two days studying for our ISAF certificates. This will be partly in the classroom, learning first aid, along with some practical bits like letting off flares and chopping up bits of shroud - or trying to, anyway. We'll also have a session in the pool, righting liferafts and trying to get in them. And, of course, it will be our first chance to get to know each other.

Meanwhile, Blue Juice, our First 40.7, chartered from those nice people at MECSail, is out of the water, having her bottom cleaned and some maintenance to the underwater bits. Then, the week after our shore training, we'll be out on the water for the first time, learning more about the boat and how to sail her.

Trev

RORC Rolex Fastnet 2011

2011-02-03T08:48:00.002Z

The entry list for the Fastnet opened at midnight on 9th January. Our entry was in the following morning and by the 15th we had submitted crew details and all the other paperwork. We are provisionally accepted - provisional, that is, on our completing training and qualifying races. So, game on, as I believe they say these days. First stop, ISAF Offshore Safety Course.

From the RORC web site:

"Entry for one of the world's most popular yacht races opened at midnight on Sunday 9 January and by midday Monday, nearly 100 entries had signed up, with an unprecedented number doing so in the early hours of the morning. The trend continued over the next couple of days when the halfway mark of 150 boats was reached for the race which has a maximum entry of 300 boats. Within a week, 250 boats had entered!

"We expected an initial rush of interest because people were registering the details about their boat on our REMUS on-line entry system over Christmas," commented the RORC Racing Manager Ian Loffhagen. "However nothing had prepared us for this unprecedented amount of interest in the race. We are obviously delighted at how popular the race has become with entries from all over the world."

Of the high profile race boats entered, the two canting keel 100 footers, ICAP Leopard and Rambler 100 will be the ones battling to take line honours in the Race. Mike Slade's ICAP Leopard and George David's previous Rambler had a huge fight in the 2007 Rolex Fastnet Race, with Leopard taking the silverware. However, this year, George David has chartered the Juan K designed Speedboat, re-named Rambler 100, which will put Mike Slade under a lot of pressure.

There are 15 Class 40's entered so far and the next biggest classes are the Sigma 38 and First 40.7s, with 14 boats each and so far, 14 different countries will be represented in the 2011 Rolex Fastnet Race. "

The entry list has now apparently reached the limit of 300 boats!

Round Britain & Ireland - Jangada Too blog

2010-05-23T08:26:00.005+01:00

Dear followers
The blog of our adventures in the big, double-handed "Round the Islands" race can be found at http://jangada-too.blogspot.com/.
We had a stunning result, coming fourth in our class and fifth overall. What an adventure - hope you enjoy reading about it as much as we did doing it!

Trevor

Jangada Too qualifies for RBI 2010

2009-10-03T14:08:00.007+01:00

Well, we've succefully completed the qualifying voyage, required by the RB&I organisers. Our plans to qualify were based on an extended “Round the Island”, from the Hamble, around the Isle of Wight to Falmouth followed by a return leg to the Needles finish, then home. Three hundred and ten miles, as the seagull flies, but probably ending up more, by the time we’ve tacked to make our way against the inevitable south-westerly that we anticipated we would face on our way down the south coast.
In the event, our planned early Thursday morning start was thwarted, almost before the off. The GRIB files, detailing the wind forecast over the following days, told a sorry tale – a dominant high pressure that could jeopardise our chances of success. Was it worth even starting? Richard and I debated it over the phone, in the early hours of the morning and finally decided to go for it. The dominant wind would be a north westerly – which meant avoiding a beat, and we might benefit from sea breezes that would likely develop under the forecast conditions.
So, with a revised departure time of 11am on Thursday, we set of on our adventure. By then, Richard had done all the boat prep and victualling, so I did little more than step onto the boat, carry out routine safety checks and cast off.
We registered our passage plan with the Coastguard and our first leg, towards the Nab tower, was typically propelled by an unforecast south westerly, which backed towards the southeast as we approached our first mark. Facing a beat in the wrong direction, we decided to round Bembridge Ledge instead and at last made our way westwards, catching the first of the west-going tide. We made good progress to Anvil Point, but we were never going to make the critical tidal gate at Portland Bill. Though the wind dropped, we managed to stem the foul tide and finally made forward progress as the tide changed.
Richard has done quite a bit of two-handed sailing, including the Fastnet earlier this year, but my own experience is minimal – a circumnavigation of Corsica 12 years ago, which involved copious wine in some very fine restaurants but was otherwise hardly an endurance. We settled into a routine pretty quickly, mainly involving “one up, one down”, but typically not making enough of sleep opportunities early on.
Dawn found us in Lyme bay and we finally made Start Point in the late afternoon of Friday. The wind was flukey and very light and pretty consistently from the north, though the sea breezes did kick in, as expected, reversing the wind direction in the early afternoons, until dusk. Our progress was slow but steady and we finally approached our destination in the dark of Friday evening. We logged our arrival with Falmouth Coastguard and, much to their bemusement promptly logged another passage home again. They even asked us to confirm our departure time as “immediately”! Friday night gave us a good run to Plymouth, but once again, we fell into the mini-Doldrums off Start Point on Saturday morning. The wind finally picked up a little and took us back into Lyme Bay. The day was, as we had anticipated, the worst day, with the wind completely dying for long periods. I’d brought along a fishing rod, but not even the mackerel were biting. Not even a sea breeze came to save us. It was not until the evening that the wind returned from the northwest, with a forecast veer to the northeast.

Accordingly, we headed north to ensure we would not be headed. It worked out well, giving us a constant beam reach towards home. Indeed, the wind built during the night, so that we passed south of Portland at an impressive 8 knots, sailing due east.
We creamed the last few miles past Anvil Point and to the Needles. We debated the North Channel, but decided it was better, given the tide, to go up the Needles Channel. Once past the forts, the wind veered a little further, straight onto the nose and dropping to 3 knots. Time to call it a day. We finally finished around lunchtime on Sunday – 340 miles or so in 3 days.

Richard and I also plan to enter the two-handed division of some of next year’s RORC races, to gain further short-handed racing experience. We'll post our planned races here and do our best to let you share in the adventure by following this blog, which thanks to the wonders of satellite communications, should be updated daily once the race starts.

Trev

Round Britain & Ireland 2010

2009-10-03T14:05:00.002+01:00

Richard Palmer and Trevor Drew plan to compete in the Shetland Round Britain and Ireland Two-handed Race in June 2010.

A more varied test of pure seamanship than its transatlantic counterparts, the RB&I has drawn the top names in ocean sailing. Traditionally, when the weather deteriorates, the sailor stands offshore in deeper water, but this is not possible when the course is around our islands. With our changes of weather and large tidal ranges, the race is accepted as a unique 2000 mile challenge to the short-handed sailor.

Established in 1966 by Blondie Haslar, the event is held every four years starting and finishing in Plymouth. The course takes the fleet clockwise around all of Great Britain & Ireland, including Shetland, with compulsory stops of 48 hours at Kinsale, Barra, Lerwick and Lowestoft.

The Race, which starts on 6th June, is open to all yachts and multihulls between 30’ and 50’ in length, crewed by two people only. Started by the Royal Western in 1966, it is one of the International classics of short-handed sailing, and over the years has attracted the great names.

Richard and Trevor will be competing on J109 “Jangada Too”, in which Richard recently completed the Fastnet, also two-handed.

As part of the qualification requirements for the RBI 2010, crews are required to complete a qualifying passage of 300 miles.

Back to t' mill

2009-08-17T20:21:00.007+01:00

I always get tense at the end of races, and this was no exception. Our progress up the Cornish coast was mainly under spinnaker, but we had to work hard for every mile. The "emergency meal" of chili con carne was long eaten and the crew were looking at each other as if weighing up each other's calorific value. In the event, we turned the corner into Plymouth Sound without mishap and finished the race under spinnaker, dropping it in a neat handbrake turn behind the breakwater. We were lucky to be given a berth in Sutton Harbour, so really enjoyed the party atmosphere - needless to say, a few beers were drunk on our arrival.
And the winners of the mileage competition?? Actually, I had two bottles - one for each watch, which we drank almost as soon as we tied up. There are no losers on Flying Formula!!
Four of us took the boat back to Southampton on Saturday afternoon, arriving on Sunday afternoon, all set for work on Monday. I confess - I'm not sure my employer got their full money's worth today..
Nick has posted the results. It was a very close field and, looking at the tracker, I'm not sure we made any gross errors - especially given that we essentially raced only with a compass and a GPS.
I'd like to say a big thank you to the crew for being such a great bunch - I couldn't have wished for a more dedicated and easy-going crew. And to Nick for publishing all my reports on the blog.
And to you, dear readers, for all your nice comments, both within the blogs and to me personally.
We're contemplating doing the RORC Cherbourg on the first weekend of September. Not all the Fastnet crew can make it, so if you're interested in sailing with us, please contact Nick at the CSORC Crew Bureau.
Cheers Trev

Final results

2009-08-16T22:36:00.002+01:00

Flying Formula finished 192nd in IRC overall, out of 277 entrants, 275 starters and 266 finishers. She was 41st out of 56 in IRC3.

Finished

2009-08-15T10:49:00.002+01:00

In case you haven't seen on the Tracker, Flying Formula finished at 00:28 (not sure if that is GMT or BST) this morning. Well done guys!

Nick B

Some more photos from the start ...

2009-08-14T15:28:00.004+01:00

The watch mileage competition hots up

2009-08-14T14:58:00.002+01:00

Gawd, what have I done? The mood on the boat has changed. The crew have become fixated by the bottle of Heidsieck Cordon Bleu I waved about and are doing everything they can to generate the biggest mileage. There were mutterings of "s'easy - we'll just sail off the wind" and various attempts at sabotaging the other crew. On a recent spinnaker drop/jib hoist, it seemed like the last watch had danced around the maypole with the halyards and I've attached a photo of the latest incident above.

That said, our performance over the last 24 hours has been fantastic!
Trev

Homeward bound

2009-08-14T10:21:00.007+01:00

We shook out all reefs, put up the number 1 and set a course for Bishop Rock lighthouse. The weather was naff - a "mizzle" as we Cornish describe it. But we made great progress - and the "Rolex Watch Mileage Competition" has added extra spice to the sailing! About halfway across, we launched the No 2 spinnaker on a fine reach and made excellent progress. By early morning, however, it had to come down as the wind strengthened. But the No 1 took us south east in fine fashion, averaging 7 knots over successive watches. We're now skirting underneath the TSZ west of Bishop Rock, again under spinnaker, heading for the Lizard. If the wind stays, we might be in Plymouth by midnight!
Trev

Our culinary goddess

2009-08-14T10:21:00.003+01:00

I feel I must publicly sing the praises of Tracey who, as well as leading Wallace watch, has victualled the boat for the race. And she has been a star! We have dined like kings, upon dishes like chicken cassoulet, Loch Rannoch venison and Tagliatelle con Pompodori. All lovingly prepared and frozen, ready to pop into the oven when required. As I type, she is preparing a rhubarb crumble as a little lunchtime treat...this race will add serious weight to the rail..
Trev

Winding the watches

2009-08-14T10:20:00.002+01:00

Thurs 1130: Readers of early blogs may remember the two watches on Flying Formula are Wallace, led by Tracey and Grommet, led by Phil. We've not had much inter-watch rivalry on this particular race, apart from who was going to take us round the rock. In the event, the although led by Grommet watch, the several spinnaker gybes required the additional services of George, from Wallace watch. So we'll call that a shared honour.
So, in order to pep things up a bit for the ride home, I'm going to introduce a mileage competition, with a bottle of champers in Plymouth for the winning watch.
Trev

Bunching

2009-08-13T22:22:00.002+01:00

FF is still out of mobile contact, but a look at the Tracker site shows that there is an interesting development going on. A lot of boats seem to be stuck SW of the Scillies, while the boats immediately behind are making reasonable progress. FF is in a small group of Sigmas - all this distance travelled only to end up alongside each other. It'll be interesting to see how this all pans out in the morning. Winds are forecast to remain light until daylight at least.

Nick B

No wind off the Scillies

2009-08-13T15:41:00.002+01:00

No word from our intrepid crew but according to the Tracker at 14.00 Jangada was wallowing around at 0.6 knots west of the Scillies while FF was doing over 4 knots a hundred miles behind. This could result in a bit of compression of the fleet, if the back half reaches the Scillies just as the wind picks up! It could be interesting.

Nick B

Romp to Pantaenius.

2009-08-13T09:22:00.005+01:00

Thurs 0730: The leg from the Fastnet to the Pantaenius buoy is a short one, being designed to separate the outbound and returning boats. But we had fun! It was still foggy, we still had the spinnaker up and spotted another boat ahead, making its way to the mark. We were going well, not quite in the right direction, and when we were about 100m from the boat, a J109 [probably Aquaholix - a J105. Ed.], they spotted us. There was a flurry of activity as they launched their asymmetric and shot off parallel to us. We were flying the spinny at a ludicrous angle, collapsing and cavorting down the ocean. The French boat (for it was they), watched "les Anglais perfide" whizz past them as they snuffed their sail, hoisted their genoa and go off in the right direction. Needless to say, they rounded the mark before us, but it gave a nice lift to a grey day.
Trev

We're round!

2009-08-13T09:20:00.001+01:00

Phew! the strong westerly that we had beaten against, all the way from Land's End, finally decided to leave us to our fates, dumping us 6 miles from the rock, we spun for a little while, before the weather gods decided to have a bit more fun and blanketed us in fog. And, just to add a little spice, the water gods decided to join in and threw a in tidal current, carrying us straight for the rock. After about an hour, at 4-ish in the morning, by which time Grommit watch had taken over, we noticed a gentle breeze - from the east! It was hardly enough to flutter the Rolex pennant on the forestay but we soon had the main and jib pinned out. The old girl was game, but hardly moving. We hauled out and launched the No 1 spinnaker and were slowly on our way. We passed quite a few boats on our journey past the rock - none seemed to have detected or thought of the spinny and, of course, in the thick fog, had little notice of our presence.We finally rounded the rock at 05:17. Pantaenius and home!!
Trev

The frustration continues ...

2009-08-13T09:19:00.001+01:00

Thurs 0220: The wind has finally left us. We never saw anything of the forecast sou'westerly and now sit, totally becalmed, 9 miles east of the Fastnet rock, which blinks at us, just to let us know it's there. Seems like a good time to charge the batteries - the boat's and our own. I feel a bacon fry-up coming on...

What a difference a day makes ...

2009-08-12T23:06:00.002+01:00

Wed 2135 We had a pretty good day on Tuesday after clearing the separation zone off Lands End, and some dolphins came to cheer us up even further. We tried our best to make some westing but a windshift made our northerly route significantly favoured, so up we went. Wednesday morning gave us a nasty surprise. A routine check of the batteries revealed 8 volts! We paid out the mainsheet as we were heeled hard over, and managed to start the engine and recharge them, but it has meant lost time as we cannot run the engine whilst heeled. After a few experiments, it looks like we have a short in the circuit to the tricolour. So we'll have to use deck nav lights from now on and keep fingers crossed. Also increasing the number of charging sessions - so likely no chocolates for the race.
Trev

Tracker update at 14.00

2009-08-12T15:58:00.001+01:00

Looking at Flying Formula on the Tracker at 14.00 they have 45 Nm to go and are doing just over 5 knots. So it looks like they will round the rock tonight around midnight. I'm not sure Trevor's Blackberry will be up to taking a night time photo fit for the cover of CS Sailing, but I'm sure he'll have a go.

Jangada Too are probably rounding about now.

Nick B

Out of phone range?

2009-08-12T10:49:00.002+01:00

Flying Formula is now over halfway across the Celtic Sea to the rock and has improved her position in IRC 3 to 28th (from 35th yesterday). Trevor has been sending emails from on board to the dedicated team of communications experts on shore to update this blog, but the team (oh alright, me) hasn't heard anything since yesterday so they are probably well out of phone range. Either that or they've decided to enjoy the peace and quiet, and who can blame them. Winds look like being 15 knots or so at the Marathon Gas Platform (you can see the winds on xcweather.co.uk) from the SW or WSW, so they will be on the wind.

Meanwhile Jangada Too is putting up an excellent showing in IRC 2 and particularly in the two-handed class. You can follow them on www.jangada-too.blogspot.com, though they haven't updated since yesterday either.

Meanwhile ICAP Leopard have spent the night in Plymouth in nice comfortable beds (probably).

Nick B

The Flying Formula Track

2009-08-11T18:03:00.001+01:00

A shot from the RORC tracker:

The boys take a well-earned rest

2009-08-11T17:36:00.004+01:00

Making our way up the west coast of Cornwall, just ahead of Challenger!
Trev

Oooo, nice picture ...

2009-08-11T12:49:00.001+01:00

This is Puma Logic, a Reflex 38.

Tussle off Land's End

2009-08-11T11:52:00.000+01:00

Tues 11:25 An interesting development approaching the Runnel Stone - we crossed the path of Vitesse - another Sigma 38. We are travelling west, towards Wolf Rock while she has stood on north, towards the mainland. It will be interesting to see who wins out!
Trev

Off Penzance

2009-08-11T10:05:00.000+01:00

Tues 07:15 - the new dawn finds us in Marazion Bay, in a benign sea with a hint of ocean swell remaining. The wind is light and, nor'westerly, bucking the trend of coming exactly the direction we want to go. Most of us had a good night and ready for the daylight rounding of Land's End. Unfortunately, the current wind will force a beat to the Fastnet rock, but we have hopes for a swing to the SW which will be a big boost.
Trev

Cold stew and cous-cous

2009-08-11T09:59:00.002+01:00

Tues 0200; Keith and George enjoy a hearty meal after a cold night watch off the Lizard. The ride frn Plymouth was rock'n roll, with strong winds and a confused sea. But we're making good progress, morale is high and the dawn is coming.

It's a sea horse.

2009-08-10T20:12:00.002+01:00

Gromit's track from Sunday night.

A Breathless Night

2009-08-10T15:46:00.000+01:00

Mon 0730 Well, we made it past Portland and are romping along at over 7 knots (SOG). Just crossed "Inspiration of Boss" But it was a hard night. The early night watch fought with a fickle wind, making reasonable VMG with the friendly tide. We had a meeting with Torbellino but lost them as night fell. But hardly had Grommet watch taken over when the wind died and we were left in 40m of water and the beginnings of a foul tide. We zig-zagged through the night and, as the tide finally turned again, we were only about a mile back from our original position - could have been a lot worse!
Trev

Towards Portland

2009-08-10T09:28:00.000+01:00

The wind is dying with the sun as we make our way slowly towards Portland Bill. The IRC1 fleet are slowly moving up the fleet, which seems to have largely opted for the offshore route. That said, there are boats spread all the way from our position, about 6 miles off St Albans Head, to the coast.

Some photos

2009-08-09T19:35:00.002+01:00

Our new mainsail

2009-08-09T16:11:00.003+01:00

Narrows squeak

2009-08-09T16:07:00.000+01:00

We're now through Hurst narrows ! The wind dumped us just before it and we span around a couple of times, but th new wind - the forecast SW - finally kicked in and we're now tacking down the Needles channel to clear shingles and then westwards!
T

Fastnet is go!

2009-08-09T16:06:00.001+01:00

We left Ocean Village for Cowes at about 0900 to pick up George from Cowes, where he'd been partying with his Cowes Week crew.We went through the Registration gate without problems. The IMOCA 60s clustered on the ODM ignoring the possible advantage offered by the Gurnard countercurrent. This set the scene for us in IRC3 and we took up a position at the inner end of the outer cluster.It was soon obvious that the island-side boats had the advantage so we hekd our port tack to join them. But we decided that there was little advantage in going too far in. We're now off Hamstead. Pointing at Yarmouth, towards the front of the pack.
Trev

Flying Formula now on Tracker Site

2009-08-09T09:56:00.004+01:00

Flying Formula is now on the RORC Tracker site. She can be found under IRC 3. Just click on the name to see where she is. The race starts in a couple of hours (at midday today).

Nick

Tracker site - update

2009-08-07T08:50:00.002+01:00

Unfortunately, RORC still haven't updated the competitor list on their Tracker site from 23/7 (date at top of the list). So Flying Formula isn't on it yet. Until they do, you won't be able to track us. When I spoke to them about it last weekend, they said they'd be doing it last Monday ....
Going down to Cowes now, to pick up the tracker and remind them again!!!
Trev

RORC tracker site problems - tips

2009-08-05T22:11:00.007+01:00

Like me, a few other people have mentioned trouble with loading the "Race Player" in the RORC tracker site. It gets to the point of "loading data..." phase, then freezes. I've found that if you go back one page, delete your browsing history and then re-enter, it solves the problem. :-)

Wind in the Wallows????

2009-08-05T19:15:00.007+01:00

Well, there were mutterings from our RORC Commodore that the qualifying races may not have given crews sufficient practice of what might be thrown at them in the big race. In the event, looking at the GRIBs, it looks like we've practiced exactly what will be needed! The forecasts are telling us its going to be a very light wind race, with a risk of getting becalmed at just about every critical point in the race - Portland, Lizard, Lands End and the Bishop Rock. We're going to have to be particularly careful if the wind turns fickle at Bishop Rock, if the tide's taking us towards it.
Ho hum...better make sure there's plenty of rope for the kedge....
The good news is that those FABULOUS people at MEC Sail have pulled out all the stops and converted our motor boat back into a yacht - a brand new mast, complete with a new mainsail - and a scrubbed bottom to suit - fantastic! Thanks such a lot, Maria and David.
We're now jumped through all the necessary registration hoops for the race - unlike most of the fleet, who are currently listed as "incomplete" - see "entry list .
Trev

Mast debate

2009-07-30T20:18:00.002+01:00

Errrr.....I've been in discussion with those nice people at MEC Sail, from whom we charter Flying Formula. A pre-race check of the rigging has revealed two hairline cracks in the mast. We've had some discussions about the possibility of taking a different Sigma 38, but that could be tricky, because it breaches the RORC requirements, which require us to do our qualifying miles in the same boat as the Fastnet. MEC Sail are therefore currently organising having a new mast fitted over the weekend. Of course, there will be an awful lot of other stuff to do, with rigging, lights etc, so we'll hold our breath that there are no complications....

About the Fastnet race

2009-07-27T18:00:00.010+01:00

The Rolex Fastnet Race, organized by the Royal Ocean Racing Club is one of the world’s classic events. It takes place every two years and was first held in 1925. Every race is a challenge, but the this year is particularly poignant, as it is the 30th anniversary of tragic race of 1979, when a severe storm hit the fleet and many yachts foundered and 15 sailors lost their lives.
The 2009 event takes place on August 9th with our start at 1200 hrs. Each yacht will carry a tracking beacon, primarily for safety reasons, but it also means that you can track progress of the fleet on the internet. Links to the tracking, the RORC Fastnet mini-site and general info on the race can all be found on the right hand side panel.
The course, shown in the picture (click to enlarge), will take us down the western Solent, past the Needles and out into the English Channel. The fleet will pass the many headlands along the south coast of England, providing many tidal challenges, before entering the open ocean and the long leg north west to the Fastnet Rock 6 miles off the South West tip of Ireland. After rounding the famous lighthouse, the return leg to Plymouth is another 260 miles, via Bishop Rock Lighthouse on the South side of the Scilly Isles and the Lizard.
We anticipate it will take us about five days, provided we have reasonable wind – direction is NOT important – we’re not fussy! But this will be a very demanding race and fatigue will be bound to take its toll. We want to do well, but my primary objective it to get everyone around the course safely, and to enjoy ourselves.
As I type, various crew are busy getting things prepared. I’m sorting out the nav (and the blog!), Tracey’s organizing the victualling, Brian’s ordering the pasties and everyone is on strict instructions to stay away from anyone with H1N1 (NOT SWINE!) flu.
Trev

All set for the Fastnet race

2009-07-26T19:20:00.005+01:00

Only two weeks to the Fastnet race, so everyone's getting excited. We came 13th in IRC3 an 22nd overall on the De Guingand - a pretty good result, placing us 2nd in IRC for the season! Of course, season results don't mean very much until the end and, of course, we've slipped down the ranking since, as we've not competed in the last four races.
But we're ready for the challenge of the big race and are busy making plans. We're also considering racing in the final race of the series - the Cherbourg race at the beginning of September, which will qualify us for the series trophies. In the meantime, check out the new links below - including a "meet the crew" page.
Trev

Carry on up the solent

2009-06-14T15:00:00.006+01:00

Sun 1400. Well, we've finished! After battling around Anvil Point the fleet was becalmed in Poole Bay for what seemed like hours. The wind, previously northerly, finally kicked in from the south west, prompting a mass flurry of spinnakers and a rush to the rounding mark at North Head. We had been puzzled by so few boats going to the next mark and all was explained. Those nice people from RORC were on the line, displaying flag S for a shortened course. We crossed at 1311 with a big cheer. George was so delighted he let go of the spinny halyard. A quick trip up the mast and now sailing up the Solent under spinny, home to Ocean Village and a long bath.

Trev

Rounding the westerly mark

2009-06-14T09:21:00.002+01:00

Sun 0630. We've now rounded the most westerly mark of the course - E Shambles, off Portland Bill and are running back to North Head under spinnaker. Then it's back west to Poole No 1, back to North Head and finish, it was a great boost to see so many class 1 and 2s at the mark - including Richard and Jeremy on Jangada Too - currently only about six boats ahead of us.
Trev

Swanage sucks

2009-06-14T04:48:00.001+01:00

Sun 0200. Oh dear. Gromit watch took us on a long beat into Poole bay where we tried to work our way along the coast, sheltering from the tide in the lee of Anvil Point. Sadly, the wind completely died and I've just spent a torrid 4 hours off Swanage, with Wallace watch, trying our best to make some progress towards our destination (see plot). Time for bed!
Trev

Tussle off Ventnor

2009-06-14T04:47:00.002+01:00

Sat 14:40 Making good progress around the south eastern side of the island - the wind has picked up and we're neck and neck with a J105 and another IRC2 boat. Can't be doing too badly!
Trev

Stowaway

2009-06-14T04:45:00.002+01:00

Picked up a hitch-hiker in the form of a pigeon! He stayed with us for half an hour or so, but the wind picked up and he flew off towards the island.
T

Rounding the Nab

2009-06-14T04:43:00.001+01:00

We came around the Nab tower nicely, with PJ at the helm and laid off plenty to ensure we cleared - putting an extra stitch in just to make sure.
T

The start

2009-06-14T04:35:00.004+01:00

Saturday 11:10 We managed to ge up on time and joined the start. With little wind and strong tide, it was important to ensure we didn't get carried over. As the gun went, George and Chris performed a perfect spinny lauch and we were off. We're currently approching the forts, mainly thanks to the current. A strong header necessitated a change to the genoa but the wind has yet to sort itself out.
Trev

The de Guingand Bowl. Here we go again!

2009-06-12T22:55:00.003+01:00

Friday night, we've received the course and are busy working out the tactics [see left - Ed.] ...
RORC have been a little mischievous but it's a fairly short one so, all being well, with a little wind we should be home by Sunday evening.
Trev

Myth - results

2009-05-29T21:08:00.007+01:00

Well, we did pretty well! We came 7th in our class - IRC3 and 38th overall.

For the whole series therefore, we're 5th in IRC3 and joint 23rd overall. Although still technically "provisional" it's been a while since the race, so I guess it's reasonably firm.

See you all on Sat 13th June for the De Guingand Bowl race. Thanks to those of you who commented and - don't forget - we can read the blog during the race, so feel free to comment. But no "outside assistance" please!

And don't forget the IDOR - Nick is skippering the CSORC entry and running that blog - http://csorc-idor.blogspot.com - I've jumped ship for that one!
Trev

Homebound

2009-05-25T23:25:00.001+01:00

21:53:00 we crossed the line - Hurrah! More relief than joy, after what was probably the most frustrating race any of us have ever competed in.
Nine tired crew are now plodding up the Solent in the drizzle, finishing off the almond slices.
Thanks to all our viewers and hope you will join us on the next leg of our campaign - the RORC De Guingand Bowl on 13-14 June'
Trevor Drew

The final leg

2009-05-25T20:27:00.001+01:00

Mon 20:06hrs We're finally on our way to the finish line. Our strategy to make a westing by going north seems to have paid off and we"re now under spinnaker, heading across Christchurch Bay, with 12 miles to go to the finish line. The wind, true to form, frustrated us to the very end, rendering us becalmed once again off St Alban's Ledge. But it finally decided it had played with us enough and has sent us on our way.
TD

Coastal creep

2009-05-25T17:34:00.001+01:00

The wind offshore couldn't prevent an inexorable slide back to the southwest, once the tide turned. So we headed north and are now creaping along the coast, aided by a sea breeze, approaching the overfalls at Anvil Point.

A new line in helming helmets

2009-05-25T13:22:00.002+01:00

We are a little concerned by this recent sartorial addition to sailing attire, produced by the not so well known Russian manufacturer, "Mustovich"
Chris has now justly earned the nickname of "Thumper" ...

Fetching the Bill

2009-05-25T11:08:00.007+01:00

Mon 1023 Made good progress down from the Eddystone back to Prawle Point on a fine spinnaker reach. Grommit watch took over, only to fall into another wind hole at Start Point Grrr... After a torrid four hours of going nowhere (see photo), Wallace watch took over, to be blessed immediately with a strong Northerly, backing West that took us all the way to our current position, just east of Portland Bill.

Another day, another sunset

2009-05-24T21:25:00.000+01:00

Round at last

2009-05-24T19:50:00.004+01:00

IMG00030-20090524-1815.jpg

Sun 1815 Finally. George takes us round the Eddystone!

Nearly there

2009-05-24T19:16:00.002+01:00

Eddystone doesn't rock

2009-05-24T17:56:00.001+01:00

Well, we didn't make it. Right up to the last minute, we thought we might. We got tantalisingly close to the lighthouse - about half a mile - but the wind dropped and the tide turned. We're now drifting, in the company of about a dozen fellow unfortunates. We even sacrificed George's soul to the wind gods, but it clearly wasn't appetising enough. And, to rub salt into it, as we were approaching, we saw Richard (CSORC Treasurer) sailing the other way, having successfully got around. Time for dinner!
TD

The lucky one

2009-05-24T17:51:00.000+01:00

IMG00029-20090524-1537.jpg

The lucky one who made it around before the tide turned.

Approaching the Eddystone

2009-05-24T17:49:00.000+01:00

Approaching the Eddystone

Sun 1530 Well, this race is keeping us guessing, at every mile. We're now about 2 miles from the lighthouse, in 2 knots of wind with the tide about to turn. And, evenif we do get beyond it, do we risk turning south, in such a fickle, light wind, with the light on our lee? Watch this space!
TD

Becalmed again - this time off Salcombe

2009-05-24T12:17:00.001+01:00

Myth of Malham - Sunday Morning

2009-05-24T09:51:00.000+01:00

Sunset off Portland

2009-05-23T21:09:00.001+01:00

Sat 2045 The wind gods have NOT been kind ... Still off Portland Bill. In 3 knots of wind, doing about 0.3 backwards. But we're enjoying a spectacular sunset over Weymouth. Tide changes in a couple of hours and hopefully more wind ...

Trevor Drew

Approaching the Bill

2009-05-23T20:03:00.000+01:00

Sat 1815hrs. Our poor Sigma 38' doesn't like light airs! We struggled in 3 knots while the lighter boats went past us. We were at the mercy of the tide and, by the time the sea breeze finally kicked in, were committed to a route closer in than planned. But it might work out ok, because at least we're out of the worst of the foul tide that's just starting to flow.

Trevor Drew

Pooh sticks at the Needles ...

2009-05-23T13:19:00.000+01:00

After a reasonable start, we made a wise choice of the no. 2 spinnaker which, though the wind was light, enabled us to point higher than many other. We found ourselves third in the fleet at Yarmouth, but were seriously headed and lost a few places getting the spinny down.

As we cleared Hurst narrows, the wind died and we're currently totally becalmed, gently pirouetting towards our destination! If this carries on, we'll be kedging in Lyme Bay....

Trevor Drew

RORC Myth of Malham

2009-05-22T20:33:00.000+01:00

The crew are aboard and off to Cowes for dinner. Early race start tomorrow.

Getting ready for the Myth

2009-05-22T08:44:00.000+01:00

The downloaded weather seems to give us a SE for tomorrow morning, so might be a spinnaker start - quite a challenge for the crew, as they didn't get much practice on the Cervantes - just put it up at the Needles and took it down off Le Havre. And, for the second half of the race, a friendly, backing wind to the North seems to favour our return too! But light winds over Saturday night may bring the tide into play in a big way, so kedging might be a possibility. We will have to spend some time figuring out the race tactics carefully. This is going to be a pretty interesting race!
Trevor Drew

RORC Cervantes 2009

2009-05-19T21:36:00.000+01:00

Crew: Trevor Drew (Skipper), Phil Armitage (First Mate & Watch Leader), Tracey Hindmarsh (Watch Leader), Brian Ash, Phil Bartlett (PJ), Chris Benson, Keith Richie, John Storey, & George Tetley.

We set off from Ocean Village on Friday evening, for Cowes, to be ready for the 0750 first gun. In CSORC tradition, the names of the two watches were decided in the pub, with “Wallace” and “Grommit” carrying the vote.
The start line, off the Royal Yacht Squadron, was quite a busy one, with over 100 boats in the four classes and the big boys, including two TP52s, lurking for position at the outer end, for their later start. Our Sigma 38’ was one of four in IRC3 class setting off at 08:00. The forecast was for light westerly wind, veering northwest and reducing in strength. The shortest of the three courses was therefore chosen, in deference to the forecast light winds. We had such a good start I was a little concerned we’d over-cooked it (note to self – not a “round the cans” race!) but there was no second gun, so we were OK and held our own on the beat towards the Needles. Things got more confused as the later, faster classes caught up with us as we rounded the Needles Fairway buoy. We had readied the spinnaker pole and, despite the relatively gentle breeze, I had decided on the heavier kite, as I felt it would behave and cope better with the increased pressure of the beam reach. The fleet separated after the mark, with the majority of the fleet taking a more southerly route. As usual, we found ourselves in the minority! But, since both Phil and I had calculated similar courses, taking the neap tides into account, we stuck to our guns.
The long, long spinnaker run continued for many hours, but the anticipated veer we hoped would match our heading didn’t materialise to the extent we hoped. As the apparent wind moved forward, so our concern over the merits of the kite over the No1 genoa increased. A brief experiment, however, demonstrated our original choice was the right one, with over a knot benefit with the spinnaker. Our night-time approach to the second mark of the course, the A5 Racon westerly cardinal off Le Havre, was a little further off than we planned, and the spinnaker came down. Our approach to the finish near the entrance to Le Havre was uneventful, with the strobe of the Committee vessel clearly visible among the plethora of lights of the Seine entrance. We crossed the line at 0134, rounded the outer mark and set off for home. A little rain during the night of our return failed to dampen the pleasure of a very enjoyable race and our provisional result, 12th of 26 in IRC3, 34th overall in IRC and fastest of the Sigma 38s, was a very satisfying one!

Trevor Drew