I hope everyone has had a good winter and is ready to hit the water. We
(Ron Watt and I) finally got out for a good sail and did some testing. School
is not out yet on the new shorter tiller and the aft placement of the
spinnaker sheet blocks. I'll need some time in heavy air. Boat speed testing
has
shown that I've got my work cut out for me if I'm going to finish with
âFelicity
Made Badâ this year. In spite of completely different blades, our boats go
to weather identically. We've learned that whoever is to weather and aft at
the start tends to sail slightly higher/ better (likely because he can gauge
his speed and height by watching the other boat).
Itâs been unusually cold this spring in the Northwest and we've found few
days that are tolerableâtemperature wise. We know that it will eventually
change, but not this week.
That brings me to the question of Fort DeSoto for a midwinter regatta in
future years. Jane and I have decided that we will be going to Fort Desoto
in early spring for the next several years. We will share boat
transportation costs and bring a total of three or four Swifts and Swift
sailors down each
year from the Northwest.
We're wondering how many others from around the country share this same
level of desire to get to Floridaâs warm air and water in late March and
early
April? Please let us know if you have an interest in an ongoing midwinter
regatta at Fort Desoto.
There is one consideration that should be of concern to all of us who want
to help build the class. For many, it is difficult to take a couple of weeks
in March to go sailing and then attend a Championship regatta in other parts
of the country in late summer. We need to be certain that a Florida
midwinter regatta does not dampen enthusiasm and attendance for our major
regatta
each year. With some creative thinking we should be able to find a way to
support both events.
Letâs talk about this and let us know what you think?
Best regards,
Bram
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