Long Day 2

The second day of Palma was exceptionally long thanks to the wind dying as the gradient gave way to the sea breeze. Further, the Race Committees intent to get 4 races off (we only managed 3) definitely extended the day. Our three races were again filled with a lot of little mistakes at crucial times that saw us squander opportunities.

In the first race, a bad start coupled with the inability to get a lane led us to start way behind and out of phase in the shifty morning breeze. We were unable to get a handling of the breeze and ended with a poor 31. Then as the sea breeze filled in, we were able to start the second race of the day. We had a marginal start near the boat but were able to get a nice lane right. We managed to get going well, and were looking very promising near the top of the beat; however, we didn’t overstand quite enough on the final starboard layline, and got rolled by A LOT of boats. A potential top ten rounding turned into an 18 or 20th at the top. Not good, Incredibly agonizing. On the last upwind of the beat, we got caught too far to the unflavored side of the course and ended up 26th. In the final race, our pre-race plan of port tack approach near the boat worked out really well. After a couple minutes off the line we had half the fleet pointed at our stern; however, on the cross mid way up the leg we found ourselves unable to find a lane back right. We got pushed too far to the left and was mid 20s by the windward mark. On the last upwind, we got going well and were able to pass a few boats, ending up 22nd.

So all in all, a rough day. Frustrating to say the least. We are a couple of mistakes away from having some good races. Our speed is ok, but regardless, if we can sail smart with clean boat handling we should be able to put up some good scores. Keep posted for tomorrows races!