ISO Gala - Weymouth & Portland SA (7th & 8th June)
The weather forecast was for light winds and 50% cloud cover for the weekend of the WPNSA regatta. How wrong they were! Saturday morning came with a building breeze and loads of sun. The boat yard was a hub of activity with loads of wizzy boats rigging. It was the first time I had seen more boats rigging with hydrofoils than without. When it was finally the ISOs turn to launch, the wind was blowing a steady 16knts plus.
With three courses and nine fleets all within the harbour walls you needed eyes in the back of your head and a good idea of which shade of bright orange bouy was your windward mark.
The first race saw a clean start by the mixed fleet of ISOs and Buzzs, with the wind increasing it was the start of a great day. I am sorry to say that I can't give a detailed description of the action between the first three boats, as after the first lap they seemed to hold a ½ leg lead over the back three boats, but what I can say is that there was a good battle going on and this was also true for the back of the fleet.
By the second race the wind was gusting 26knts and a steady 20+, great fun was had by all. The downwind legs were a blast even if you did have to watch out for the huge wind shadows of the International 14s as they powered past.
Unfortunately the wind had taken its casualties and by the fourth race there were only four ISOs left. Bob and Luke, in Cousin Trestec, finished the day with a win to leave them in second place overnight behind the new boys Neil and Nick. Pete and Ian finished the day in third place (too many helms spoil the speed).
Sunday bought more sunshine and slightly lighter winds, between dropping to a force 2 by the end of racing.
