Skiff Evaluation Day 5 and 6: On open ocean

Yesterday was a windless day in Santander. We spent the day postponed on shore waiting for breeze. It was cold and threatening rain, so we did not stray too far from the venue in the morning. In the afternoon we sat down to finish our discussion about the individual performance of each boat. First we discussed the rebel. The pros were its power, and sailing ability in a straight line. Some concerns were about the netting in the racks, and its maneuver ability. The boat seemed to through you forward when you went for a tack or a gybe making some transitions challenging. The FX was next to be discussed. It had some strength with the feel of the boat and how it sailed. Many of the sailors liked the sailing in the FX. However, there were weight concerns, potentially heavier crews having an advantage with the heavy hull. Finally we discussed the RS900. This boat has move the sail controls back to the middle of the wing to fix a problem the 49er sailors seem to have with the sail controls. This was a point of disagreement amongst all the sailors, some liked it, others did not. The boat seemed to sail well, but the load on the main sheet was in question. It was very interesting discussing the boats as many are still prototypes.

Wednesday night everyone at this event was invited to a reception at the yacht club across the harbour. Their hospitality was greatly appreciated. They treated us with wine and appetizers. The food was delicious… and so was the wine.

This morning the Denmark crew, Marie, and Danielle got up for a quick run. We ran along the water and were disappointed to see very little wind building on the ocean. However, we were excited, it was our first truly sunny day in Spain! The view was spectacular. We ate breakfast outside overlooking the water and watched the tide come in. Sailing was postponed until after lunch.

The wind began to build and plans were made for sailing outside the harbour on the open ocean. They set a course and we finally got to do some racing! We started the afternoon in the Rebel. It was one of the fastest in the waves and the breeze. We got two thirds behind the FX and the Spanish men 49er team, or the other FX. It was exciting to be racing with the Spanish men, although they were much better and faster then us. We found the Rebel challenging to maneuver on the start line getting stuck in irons and losing steering. After two short races in the rebel we switched into the RS900. We enjoyed the wing platform. After we got our maneuvers going we found we were the third fastest behind the FX and the Rebel. The boat was athletically demanding, and it kept things exciting. We had 4 great races in the RS900.

Tonight we have all been invited to a reception with the mayor of Santander. We are hoping for some food! We will be heading there soon.

The forecast for tomorrow looks promising! Between 15 and 18 knots, we should see some excitement.