The Valmadres.
Winter off shore racing sailed from Fremantle Sailing Club
The very nature of the race makes it difficult to obtain on water footage, so we are limited to starts and finishes, but if I get lucky, I may be able to get out onto the water for a whole race.
The 2021 Valmadre Cup
at Fremantle Sailing Club
Here we go again.
Its been a little cold recently so the fleets may be sailing amongst the icebergs this winter, but as ever we have a number of new boats making their way out onto the water and all will be revealed over the next 8 weeks or so. Hopefully we'll have a bit more breeze this year.
Its been a little cold recently so the fleets may be sailing amongst the icebergs this winter, but as ever we have a number of new boats making their way out onto the water and all will be revealed over the next 8 weeks or so. Hopefully we'll have a bit more breeze this year.
And the presentations for those who were there and perhaps for those who weren't.
The 2021 Voladora Race
7th of August
I've been out on some pretty horrid days, but the pitch and toss in the slop was incredible. Even the girls in the start team were grizzling, but RO Cam had the boat parked and a nor / nor easter pumping through at around 14 to 18 knots. Between the wind wave and the swell it wasn't the most delightful day. However there were a large number of boats out for the day and the start line for Div two resembled some of the riotous times of four or five years ago.
With a change of direction in the mind of the RO, we fired them straight up the breeze hoping that they would come down the breeze towards us with spinnakers up, but as sure as the sun rises in the East, the wind changed and the fleets flowed away from us. Not a good day for a snapper. However there were some good moments and the sight of the smaller boats plunging in and out of the swell was fantastic. I saw some pretty good shots of the fore deckies working hard.
The run down the breeze has some boats taking the option to fly kites as any one with an asymmetric would, but there were one or two who suffered momentary lapses and had to untangle their kites as a matter of course. Its all a learning process after all.
Congratulations to John Rayner (Alfresco) for a series win in Div 1 getting past the Nuttman / Kirke combo and to Alan Anderson on Zuben'Ubi in Div 2 who managed to hang out very well to take the win and the series.
Many thanks to FSC and the start team for getting me out there. I have nearly finished the presentations and they will be up shortly. Hope to see you next year.
With a change of direction in the mind of the RO, we fired them straight up the breeze hoping that they would come down the breeze towards us with spinnakers up, but as sure as the sun rises in the East, the wind changed and the fleets flowed away from us. Not a good day for a snapper. However there were some good moments and the sight of the smaller boats plunging in and out of the swell was fantastic. I saw some pretty good shots of the fore deckies working hard.
The run down the breeze has some boats taking the option to fly kites as any one with an asymmetric would, but there were one or two who suffered momentary lapses and had to untangle their kites as a matter of course. Its all a learning process after all.
Congratulations to John Rayner (Alfresco) for a series win in Div 1 getting past the Nuttman / Kirke combo and to Alan Anderson on Zuben'Ubi in Div 2 who managed to hang out very well to take the win and the series.
Many thanks to FSC and the start team for getting me out there. I have nearly finished the presentations and they will be up shortly. Hope to see you next year.
The 2021 Mayflower Race
24th of July
A day for a reef maybe? Well one or two thought so, but Div 1 had the usual approach. Buggerit, just put more weight on the rail.
A day out of the west with a good 14 to 18 knots that would inexplicably drop out just when you though it was set. But the usual culprits had arrived and despite the fairly big swell, it was going to be exciting when Div 2 launched themselves over the line as everyone was in a hurry, though not everyone was going to finish the race. Soon, King Canute and The Edge retired and Jedi withdrew as did French Kiss in Div 1.
Seen out on Next Generation was sail maker Paul Eldrid checking out the suite on the Nuttman /Kirke rig and who was that driving Cadillac? Looked darned like Skip and the age of the rest of the crew was about right. Second fastest around the track, yep that's a boat he'd like to drive.. but I may be wrong.
But it was a quick day, RO Cameron promised to run me up to the turning buoy and perhaps get some extra time on the camera, but the fleets were long gone by the time the Start boat got there. No matter the day had been productive with some good action shots. Certainly better than sitting on your fingers on a slow day.
Many thanks to FSC for putting me on the water and I'll look forward to the fourth and last race as both fleets have a chance for someone else to get up and remove the current leader. Can't wait.
A day out of the west with a good 14 to 18 knots that would inexplicably drop out just when you though it was set. But the usual culprits had arrived and despite the fairly big swell, it was going to be exciting when Div 2 launched themselves over the line as everyone was in a hurry, though not everyone was going to finish the race. Soon, King Canute and The Edge retired and Jedi withdrew as did French Kiss in Div 1.
Seen out on Next Generation was sail maker Paul Eldrid checking out the suite on the Nuttman /Kirke rig and who was that driving Cadillac? Looked darned like Skip and the age of the rest of the crew was about right. Second fastest around the track, yep that's a boat he'd like to drive.. but I may be wrong.
But it was a quick day, RO Cameron promised to run me up to the turning buoy and perhaps get some extra time on the camera, but the fleets were long gone by the time the Start boat got there. No matter the day had been productive with some good action shots. Certainly better than sitting on your fingers on a slow day.
Many thanks to FSC for putting me on the water and I'll look forward to the fourth and last race as both fleets have a chance for someone else to get up and remove the current leader. Can't wait.
The 2021 Ensign Race
10th of July.
Late starters!
The Edge will be ready for the Mayflower if they just stay out there for a fortnight. And I cant help but notice that Matt on King Canute used all his good luck up yesterday bringing the boat down for racing today. It was blowing a good 35 knots on the river and better I guess on the ocean. He was last seen joining Div One as they headed off the line on a course 5.
But it wasn't their fault really. The breeze had gone walkabout for a while and left King Canute on the line. Despite all expectations, it was a really light morning and while the freighters out in Gage Rds were pointing into the nor west, we had a very mild land breeze that came and went. Weather forecasting is an exacting profession best left to those with a mystic bent and a belief in gods named Hugh!
Despite all that, we had a moderate swell that had the boat rolling a little and 15 boats took off in Div 2 with one abstention (The Edge). Div. One was shown a lesson in smart sailing with Anthony Kirke taking his boat past the start boat into the freshening breeze out of the sou east and simply disappearing into the Div. Two fleet. Probably rounded the turning mark well in advance of half of the other division.
As ever the results aren't up yet but I do really look forward to a decent breeze. Perhaps in a fortnights time? Many thanks to the start team from FSC for getting me onto the water.
The Edge will be ready for the Mayflower if they just stay out there for a fortnight. And I cant help but notice that Matt on King Canute used all his good luck up yesterday bringing the boat down for racing today. It was blowing a good 35 knots on the river and better I guess on the ocean. He was last seen joining Div One as they headed off the line on a course 5.
But it wasn't their fault really. The breeze had gone walkabout for a while and left King Canute on the line. Despite all expectations, it was a really light morning and while the freighters out in Gage Rds were pointing into the nor west, we had a very mild land breeze that came and went. Weather forecasting is an exacting profession best left to those with a mystic bent and a belief in gods named Hugh!
Despite all that, we had a moderate swell that had the boat rolling a little and 15 boats took off in Div 2 with one abstention (The Edge). Div. One was shown a lesson in smart sailing with Anthony Kirke taking his boat past the start boat into the freshening breeze out of the sou east and simply disappearing into the Div. Two fleet. Probably rounded the turning mark well in advance of half of the other division.
As ever the results aren't up yet but I do really look forward to a decent breeze. Perhaps in a fortnights time? Many thanks to the start team from FSC for getting me onto the water.
The 2021 Arlene Race
26th of June.
A number of new faces indeed and while the regulars are out there, its been fun to see the changes in the fleets. Wyuna is now a Sunfast and the new Enterprise is indeed a rocket ship. But a few of last years haven't made it out and of the 26 boats registered only 18 or 19 found their way onto the water this morning. A great pity too as we had a healthy nor - nor easter and a slightly choppy sea with a small swell that had the start boat rolling a little.
Div two was fired away first and it was noted that a very late starter was seen scurrying across the line just before the Div one boats began to front up for their start. Only five in Div one, but there was enough room over on the pin end for a cheeky port start for French Kiss who scooped the pool on three of the starters, but it should be noted that Enterprise was seen howling up the RH side of the course with a lot of speed.
As usual I haven't got the results yet, but here a few shots from the start line and a bit of luck on a long lens to get the spinnakers at the turning mark. Many thanks to the start team from FSC for taking me onto the water again.
Enjoy the images
Div two was fired away first and it was noted that a very late starter was seen scurrying across the line just before the Div one boats began to front up for their start. Only five in Div one, but there was enough room over on the pin end for a cheeky port start for French Kiss who scooped the pool on three of the starters, but it should be noted that Enterprise was seen howling up the RH side of the course with a lot of speed.
As usual I haven't got the results yet, but here a few shots from the start line and a bit of luck on a long lens to get the spinnakers at the turning mark. Many thanks to the start team from FSC for taking me onto the water again.
Enjoy the images
The 2020 Valmadre Cup
at Fremantle Sailing Club
Great to be back on the water again, as most of us have had enough of virtual racing and just want to get our toes wet again. The traditional four races are available to us this year and I hope that we have all of them firing for us. The first date is the 20th of June with the inshore series getting the boats warmed up prior to this event.
The 2020 Voladora Race.
1st of August
Another day, another easterly. Well so it seemed with a sou easterly present and very light to boot. Kraken wasn't hanging around as the skip was away today ( and good luck to him anyway ) but Barry and Betty had Twitch loaded up and ready to go with a crew looking to go for a yacht!
Now somewhere along the line in the last week or so, an unnamed fordeckie took bananas onto the boat he was on and then had the gall to offer them to the crew as a mid race snack. Lucky he didn't go overboard there and then, but I believe that the fruit certainly did. So to remind everyone of the sins of others, the start crew decided to distribute to selected boats, bags of the candy banana shapes. Which were either treated with joy by the recipients as extra sugar rations or returned with unsaid imprecations.
RO Cameron Berg had the boat in place and a course four up for all to enjoy with a port rounding at the turning mark up near the north mole. Division two got under way rather tidily, though Soon were in danger of running into the Div. one boats as they formed up on the line. They dutifully ploughed off into the sun though one or two decided to go out to the mole on the chance that something might happen.
Divison one really did a good job on the startline with Joss nailing the start and murmurs of appreciation from the start team in recognition. However he had plans, as the breeze had shifted into the east and he took off on port toward the mark with every thought of a win in his mind. The rest of the fleet saw this and flicked over as well.
The discussion was whether the race would be shortened up a little, but it was very much in the RO's hands as the boats flowed up to the mark and began to pop spinnakers for the down wind leg. We returned to base and the boats crew dispersed for more coffee.
As usual two cameras were used to provide these images and some will be out of sequence. They are of course available for sale.
Many thanks to the skippers and sailors who participated in the Valmadres. Many thanks also to RO Cameron Berg and Trevor Milne who has been supporting him. To all the Offshore race team thanks as well and my thanks to FSC for putting me on the boat. Till next year.
Now somewhere along the line in the last week or so, an unnamed fordeckie took bananas onto the boat he was on and then had the gall to offer them to the crew as a mid race snack. Lucky he didn't go overboard there and then, but I believe that the fruit certainly did. So to remind everyone of the sins of others, the start crew decided to distribute to selected boats, bags of the candy banana shapes. Which were either treated with joy by the recipients as extra sugar rations or returned with unsaid imprecations.
RO Cameron Berg had the boat in place and a course four up for all to enjoy with a port rounding at the turning mark up near the north mole. Division two got under way rather tidily, though Soon were in danger of running into the Div. one boats as they formed up on the line. They dutifully ploughed off into the sun though one or two decided to go out to the mole on the chance that something might happen.
Divison one really did a good job on the startline with Joss nailing the start and murmurs of appreciation from the start team in recognition. However he had plans, as the breeze had shifted into the east and he took off on port toward the mark with every thought of a win in his mind. The rest of the fleet saw this and flicked over as well.
The discussion was whether the race would be shortened up a little, but it was very much in the RO's hands as the boats flowed up to the mark and began to pop spinnakers for the down wind leg. We returned to base and the boats crew dispersed for more coffee.
As usual two cameras were used to provide these images and some will be out of sequence. They are of course available for sale.
Many thanks to the skippers and sailors who participated in the Valmadres. Many thanks also to RO Cameron Berg and Trevor Milne who has been supporting him. To all the Offshore race team thanks as well and my thanks to FSC for putting me on the boat. Till next year.
The 2020 Mayflower Race
18th July.
A very light day out of the East and a little lumpy as well. But Cherry had a problem. None of her regular girls were there to help her out, so one or two extra males were given their tasks as flag pullers and boat finders. Well done Todd and Thor. The warnings were out for the fleet as the port authorities had four movements in and around the harbour so RO Cam was on the job, passing out the information before the racing started. Its a pity we couldn't make the wind a bit more reliable. So another course one (potentially shortened).
However no one gets something for free and the light day had the skippers working hard to get the boats pushing as they approached the line, in fact Kraken was almost 3 minutes late for the div 2 start. Really? What did they know that we didn't, for as the fleet rounded the turning mark down at Leighton guess who was on the money? Sure enough a thumping big asymmetric bearing the numbers 3300 was seen at the front of the fleet heading out to sea.
However you can only have so much fun out the front and I have to comment on Geoff Bishop who had decided to do some work up the front of the boat just prior to the start. His reserve skipper was kind enough to drive him close enough to the back of the start boat for me to get a couple of candid shots of the fellow on the job.
It was a quiet start to the day and hopefully the sou westerly that was lingering around Rotto made its way closer on shore for the rest of the fleet. Check with the club for results.
As usual two cameras were used so some will be out of sequence.
Thanks to FSC for getting me out on the water. Enjoy the photos.
However no one gets something for free and the light day had the skippers working hard to get the boats pushing as they approached the line, in fact Kraken was almost 3 minutes late for the div 2 start. Really? What did they know that we didn't, for as the fleet rounded the turning mark down at Leighton guess who was on the money? Sure enough a thumping big asymmetric bearing the numbers 3300 was seen at the front of the fleet heading out to sea.
However you can only have so much fun out the front and I have to comment on Geoff Bishop who had decided to do some work up the front of the boat just prior to the start. His reserve skipper was kind enough to drive him close enough to the back of the start boat for me to get a couple of candid shots of the fellow on the job.
It was a quiet start to the day and hopefully the sou westerly that was lingering around Rotto made its way closer on shore for the rest of the fleet. Check with the club for results.
As usual two cameras were used so some will be out of sequence.
Thanks to FSC for getting me out on the water. Enjoy the photos.
The 2020 Ensign Race
4th of July
A halfway decent day for a change with a small swell working in our favour as the nor easter steadied at about 12 to 15 knots and the mob gathered on the water off Leighton. Again Division 2 was loaded with talent and boats, lots of fun and possibilities. Captain Kirke is getting the hang of his fill in boat "Adams Rib" and in discussion this morning, the question was " stick with div 2 or go back to div 1." The glint in his eye seems to point to having fun in div 2 for a while.
RO Cam had the day under control and with the start team calling off the times, a course one was offered and accepted with few dissenters to be heard.. in fact no one squawked at all. Fortune favoured me and the start line was down sun so good photography was possible. The 17 boats ? in div 2 flowed over the line this time, with some electing to be a little late and took advantage of the shift in the breeze to go right immediately after the start boat.
Div one had Obsession back on the water with Andrew Harry on the wheel and he wasn't going to play games. They like to win starts and I observed them passing Checkmate underneath him after the start. Mind you, Geoff was in front after the turning mark, so honours were even to there. 6 boats fronted so The Edge is still hors d 'combat and probably will be for a while. They too decided that going right was a good idea and RO Cam was kind enough to run the start boat past the fleet and down to the turning mark. Gave me a great chance to have a look at the kites for the day. Most appreciated.
As usual, I haven't seen the results so I'll leave you in suspense but I need to remind you that two cameras were in use today, so some of the images will be out of sequence.
RO Cam had the day under control and with the start team calling off the times, a course one was offered and accepted with few dissenters to be heard.. in fact no one squawked at all. Fortune favoured me and the start line was down sun so good photography was possible. The 17 boats ? in div 2 flowed over the line this time, with some electing to be a little late and took advantage of the shift in the breeze to go right immediately after the start boat.
Div one had Obsession back on the water with Andrew Harry on the wheel and he wasn't going to play games. They like to win starts and I observed them passing Checkmate underneath him after the start. Mind you, Geoff was in front after the turning mark, so honours were even to there. 6 boats fronted so The Edge is still hors d 'combat and probably will be for a while. They too decided that going right was a good idea and RO Cam was kind enough to run the start boat past the fleet and down to the turning mark. Gave me a great chance to have a look at the kites for the day. Most appreciated.
As usual, I haven't seen the results so I'll leave you in suspense but I need to remind you that two cameras were in use today, so some of the images will be out of sequence.
The 2020 Arlene Race
20th of June
On an Easterly breeze of about 15 knots, flat water and a crowd of boats out there on the water. RO Trevor had the mob under control and a course one for both divisions had them jockeying for the line.
Division one was missing Obsession for some reason but we had the rest of the boats in the line up. Five boats got away and I do miss the big boats we had in the past. Geoff Bishop looked the goods early on, but you can never put it over James Halvorsen on Giddy Up.
Division two was a riot waiting to happen with the double handers joining the fleet and doing very well on the start (well Kraken did ). About 18 boats rocked off on the start line for Div. two with This Way Up returning to teach the youngsters a lesson or two. The Edge was missing in action thanks to a bump last Saturday, but Aquilla came along for the ride to make up numbers. Great to see the other three Jeanneau Sunfasts out today and doing very well at the start line. I do like the latest version of Atomic Blonde; an awesome looking ride. Anthony Kirke has returned to the race track with a new (to him) boat an Adams 10.6 and I think he's enjoying it too much. There's a lot more fun in div two at the moment and Anthony will have to work to keep his handicap under control.
As usual the results aren't up yet, so I'm not going to sing anyone's praises but its nice to see the racing recommence. Two cameras were used today so some of the images will be out of sequence.
As ever, enjoy the photos and I'll be back in a fortnight.
Division one was missing Obsession for some reason but we had the rest of the boats in the line up. Five boats got away and I do miss the big boats we had in the past. Geoff Bishop looked the goods early on, but you can never put it over James Halvorsen on Giddy Up.
Division two was a riot waiting to happen with the double handers joining the fleet and doing very well on the start (well Kraken did ). About 18 boats rocked off on the start line for Div. two with This Way Up returning to teach the youngsters a lesson or two. The Edge was missing in action thanks to a bump last Saturday, but Aquilla came along for the ride to make up numbers. Great to see the other three Jeanneau Sunfasts out today and doing very well at the start line. I do like the latest version of Atomic Blonde; an awesome looking ride. Anthony Kirke has returned to the race track with a new (to him) boat an Adams 10.6 and I think he's enjoying it too much. There's a lot more fun in div two at the moment and Anthony will have to work to keep his handicap under control.
As usual the results aren't up yet, so I'm not going to sing anyone's praises but its nice to see the racing recommence. Two cameras were used today so some of the images will be out of sequence.
As ever, enjoy the photos and I'll be back in a fortnight.
The 2019 Valmadre Cup including
The State IRC's
Many thanks for the chance to come back on this event as last year was a bugger with a new hip being put in. However all is well and I can swing a camera with the best of them. I've also had my flu shots and hopefully no sign of the dreaded lurgie.
Travis has advised me of the changes in the off shore racing categories and I look forward to seeing well populated race tracks. We set off the series with the first of the IRC's on the 8th of June and that should be a fine day to test the fleet and see who is doing what and how.
Travis has advised me of the changes in the off shore racing categories and I look forward to seeing well populated race tracks. We set off the series with the first of the IRC's on the 8th of June and that should be a fine day to test the fleet and see who is doing what and how.
The 2019 IRC Windward - Leeward Races 17th of August
A morning of two breezes.
Setting off on the bottom mark boat with Selwyn Castles and Todd Walsh I was going to be as close to the boats as I could get. Well sort of.. we had a job to do and that was look after the pin and the gates.. more about that later.
Eight boats fronted on a very lumpy sea. The breeze itself wasn't a problem with 12 to 15 out of the south east and RO Dubbo had the course set in good time. Then away went the heavies .. all three of them.. Enterprise must have known something as they sat back and took their time on the line, but made sure they were above Checkmate and Weapon of Choice. Sure enough, they were looking just fine at the top mark and ran away with the race while WoC went way left and found herself looking at the other two as they rounded in front of her. However, the Div one boats hit the line with panache -- Crush and Problem Child competing for the start and Circa taking a leaf from Anthony Kirks book and going a little higher behind them. The Div two boats, a Farr 9.2 and the Etchell were next away and while it was London to a brick that the Etchell was going to be slick, the Farr set off with the win in mind.
Up and down and then up and down again with predictable results, but by this time the breeze was starting to move and the RO called for a pin shift. No problems... Oops, cant get it up. Caught on a squid line. Damn.. ok, no sharp knife in evidence so put a mark on it and leave it for the start boat to lift with a winch. Put another anchor on and reset the pin.
Time to shift the gates. Done and done. The swell was getting lumpier by now and boats were disappearing behind the waves. Some skippers called for a change of headsail but the next series of starts was with the breeze out of the south and the skippers were still of the mind to run the A2's on the down. Wasabi came out for the second race and had some fun, but didn't alter the scoring. But a series of calls started to echo out of the handheld, MOB on Enterprise after a wild one and seconds after Checkmate goes through their version of a round up. Didn't throw anyone overboard, but the person in the red waterproof on the leeside disappeared from the camera's view for a second or so. So they were recovering for a while. WoC took advantage of this and then managed to pull off their own wipe out in front of the camera a little further down. Thanks team! :-)
Enterprise withdrew to accompany their recovered crewperson home (picked up by the blue rib) Bill Henson on Circa decided to call it a morning and others decided to run with a jib and main ( the div 2 boats ).
With the mornings entertainment peaking with the gusts that came through. the water started to settle down and the mark boats retired to the club leaving the start boat to pull the marks that were stuck under the squid lines.
Enjoy the photos. Please keep in mind that 3 cameras were used and they are not all in sequence.
Once again, I'd like to thank Fremantle Sailing Club for putting me on the water and the offshore start crew who work tirelessly to get the job done. Fabulous people. Thanks also to Travis B who has been kind enough to keep me in the loop and out on the boats taking photos. Much appreciated.
The 2019 Voladora Race 3rd of August
Every now and then.
It was one of those days, running late until I noted a bright red ute with Esperance plates in front of me. Beauty ! Its Dubbo. So we soared off down South St and parked up at the club, just in time to jump on the boat and head off to Leighton for the start of the Voladora. With Trevor Milton watching on, Dubbo took to the boards setting up the racing with the girls running everything behind him.
There was a lumpy swell out of the nor west and the boat was inclined to pitch and toss a little as we sent the IRC windward-leeward race away but there was no real problem and the 3 fleets got away smoothly. The race itself had one or two moments with Obsession misreading the flags and doing one lap while everyone else did two and other boats having fun with their spinnakers. A great display of a letterbox drop put on by Wasabi at the first rounding had the RO chuckling when they nearly didn't get it down in time, but they survived the attempt. And what can we say about Circa who tried to fly their spinnaker backwards. Even the little Etchell got into the act and showed us three crew for the windward -leeward and then two on the boat for the Voladora. Apparently it was a requirement for the forward hand to untangle the spinnaker by going forward under the coaming of the bow. Ergo.. only two people visible.
A comment was overheard about the crew on Weapon of Choice. It looks like they are going for the youth thing.. which is not a bad idea at all. Just give them time and let them settle in. They could be boat owners one day. An AP went up with a minute or so on the clock when the pin end of the start line decided to wander away down wind. Didn't take long and the mark laying team had a few more meters on the end of the mark to help it keep its place..
A fine start by all and it brought back memories of the start lines we had a few years ago when I saw the Swanson's old boat Syrenka back out on the water again. She was a wonderful boat in her day and the flat top meant that any wave that broke over the bow kept on going back; dousing everyone in the way. Well done Mr Truman, keep her firing please.
As usual, the images are for sail and I'm doing a special of 3 for $50 for this series.. contact me with the ones you like. Please note that two cameras were used today and they may not be always in sequence.
I'll see you in a couple of weeks time.
Every now and then.
It was one of those days, running late until I noted a bright red ute with Esperance plates in front of me. Beauty ! Its Dubbo. So we soared off down South St and parked up at the club, just in time to jump on the boat and head off to Leighton for the start of the Voladora. With Trevor Milton watching on, Dubbo took to the boards setting up the racing with the girls running everything behind him.
There was a lumpy swell out of the nor west and the boat was inclined to pitch and toss a little as we sent the IRC windward-leeward race away but there was no real problem and the 3 fleets got away smoothly. The race itself had one or two moments with Obsession misreading the flags and doing one lap while everyone else did two and other boats having fun with their spinnakers. A great display of a letterbox drop put on by Wasabi at the first rounding had the RO chuckling when they nearly didn't get it down in time, but they survived the attempt. And what can we say about Circa who tried to fly their spinnaker backwards. Even the little Etchell got into the act and showed us three crew for the windward -leeward and then two on the boat for the Voladora. Apparently it was a requirement for the forward hand to untangle the spinnaker by going forward under the coaming of the bow. Ergo.. only two people visible.
A comment was overheard about the crew on Weapon of Choice. It looks like they are going for the youth thing.. which is not a bad idea at all. Just give them time and let them settle in. They could be boat owners one day. An AP went up with a minute or so on the clock when the pin end of the start line decided to wander away down wind. Didn't take long and the mark laying team had a few more meters on the end of the mark to help it keep its place..
A fine start by all and it brought back memories of the start lines we had a few years ago when I saw the Swanson's old boat Syrenka back out on the water again. She was a wonderful boat in her day and the flat top meant that any wave that broke over the bow kept on going back; dousing everyone in the way. Well done Mr Truman, keep her firing please.
As usual, the images are for sail and I'm doing a special of 3 for $50 for this series.. contact me with the ones you like. Please note that two cameras were used today and they may not be always in sequence.
I'll see you in a couple of weeks time.
The 2019 Mayflower Race 20th July
Too little, or too much &
What were they thinking.
The first relates to the sailing today and we've had either too little breeze or too much and today it was just too much. It had whipped up a lumpy sea state and despite the best efforts of the RO and the Sailing Manager, the decision was made to first postpone and then cancel sailing for the day. The start boat ventured out to North Mole and gently curved back into the harbour as the postponement was announced and then over coffee in the bar, the news came through.
However there were one or two souls and their intrepid crews who took off and Weapon of Choice and Enterprise took the opportunity to keep their crew in training. However going into the inner harbour was a better choice for flat water and if they could somehow wangle a race in there on a blowy day???? WoC did and Joss was seen doing a pleasure cruise of the harbour as well.
However at South Mole, where I had gone to in case someone was coming back in, I observed the entrance into the harbour of the Coogee to East Fremantle outrigger race conducted by the WAZA outrigger assoc. Imagine. One safety boat, one support boat and a jet ski. It's blowing its backside off and there are up to a dozen contestants out in very rough seas. No one is wearing a PFD (you just have to have them on board) and the support boat wasn't equipped to take people aboard and the safety boat had to share itself between two or three situations where the canoes had flipped dumping the people in the water.
I'm sure that they were lucky and that no one was injured, but serious thinking needs to be done before you set these boats off for a paddle in weather that is not safe to do so. If you have a friend who belongs to the association have a chat to them please. I do know that the Fremantle Pilot boat was in attendance and the Rotto Ferry was coming in at a pace.. Imagine if one of the people had washed into the path of the ferry.
I'll leave you to think about planning these events and having the balls to say no when its too rough for the competitors.
Enjoy the photos
Too little, or too much &
What were they thinking.
The first relates to the sailing today and we've had either too little breeze or too much and today it was just too much. It had whipped up a lumpy sea state and despite the best efforts of the RO and the Sailing Manager, the decision was made to first postpone and then cancel sailing for the day. The start boat ventured out to North Mole and gently curved back into the harbour as the postponement was announced and then over coffee in the bar, the news came through.
However there were one or two souls and their intrepid crews who took off and Weapon of Choice and Enterprise took the opportunity to keep their crew in training. However going into the inner harbour was a better choice for flat water and if they could somehow wangle a race in there on a blowy day???? WoC did and Joss was seen doing a pleasure cruise of the harbour as well.
However at South Mole, where I had gone to in case someone was coming back in, I observed the entrance into the harbour of the Coogee to East Fremantle outrigger race conducted by the WAZA outrigger assoc. Imagine. One safety boat, one support boat and a jet ski. It's blowing its backside off and there are up to a dozen contestants out in very rough seas. No one is wearing a PFD (you just have to have them on board) and the support boat wasn't equipped to take people aboard and the safety boat had to share itself between two or three situations where the canoes had flipped dumping the people in the water.
I'm sure that they were lucky and that no one was injured, but serious thinking needs to be done before you set these boats off for a paddle in weather that is not safe to do so. If you have a friend who belongs to the association have a chat to them please. I do know that the Fremantle Pilot boat was in attendance and the Rotto Ferry was coming in at a pace.. Imagine if one of the people had washed into the path of the ferry.
I'll leave you to think about planning these events and having the balls to say no when its too rough for the competitors.
Enjoy the photos
The 2019 Ensign Race 6th of July
A wandering breeze.
Yes, you guessed it.
The weather was a little lackadaisical today and despite the best attempt of RO Robyn Olsen, they had to abandon the IRC. It was fairly clear though, the boys and girls on Huckleberry were still lingering around the start line at close to 0920 hrs and the discussion on the start boat had the race abandoned forthwith.
The breeze started in the north, swung into the east, moved around into a nor wester, decided to drop out and then came back as something that vaguely resembled a nor easter again. By this time the IRC was abandoned and the boats had regrouped near the start line again. And the smaller boats were let loose this time and they were under way - sort of. The next group, the div 2 fleet were absolutely boiling (as usual) and make it an interesting start, a passing squall came through and dumped rain and good pressure on the fleet just as they fired up to cross the line. Great for photography, but the rain was a real show stopper as cameras don't like getting too wet.
The heavy weights were next, by now the breeze was in the west and I was delighted to see an old friend, Syrenka out on the water again.. The Swansons have sold her and she's sporting a main that is as roachy as they come. Seemed to have a bit of drive in it, but they were gentle with the rest of the fleet as I guess they are still getting used to her. The different selection of breezes brought the whole fleet together at the turning mark and it made for some guessing by the skippers as they made their way around. As the results aren't available on the club as I write I leave you to guess as to who the winners were.
Otherwise it was great to see the regulars out there and I look forward to seeing the whole fleet once the weather improves. My thanks to Morgan who was the driver of Success today.. proved that you don't have to be over 30 to drive one of these crackers. :-) My thanks also to FSC who took me out onto the water today.
Please note that two cameras were used and some images will appear to be out of sequence.
As ever photographs are for sale. Special this week ...3 for $60
A wandering breeze.
Yes, you guessed it.
The weather was a little lackadaisical today and despite the best attempt of RO Robyn Olsen, they had to abandon the IRC. It was fairly clear though, the boys and girls on Huckleberry were still lingering around the start line at close to 0920 hrs and the discussion on the start boat had the race abandoned forthwith.
The breeze started in the north, swung into the east, moved around into a nor wester, decided to drop out and then came back as something that vaguely resembled a nor easter again. By this time the IRC was abandoned and the boats had regrouped near the start line again. And the smaller boats were let loose this time and they were under way - sort of. The next group, the div 2 fleet were absolutely boiling (as usual) and make it an interesting start, a passing squall came through and dumped rain and good pressure on the fleet just as they fired up to cross the line. Great for photography, but the rain was a real show stopper as cameras don't like getting too wet.
The heavy weights were next, by now the breeze was in the west and I was delighted to see an old friend, Syrenka out on the water again.. The Swansons have sold her and she's sporting a main that is as roachy as they come. Seemed to have a bit of drive in it, but they were gentle with the rest of the fleet as I guess they are still getting used to her. The different selection of breezes brought the whole fleet together at the turning mark and it made for some guessing by the skippers as they made their way around. As the results aren't available on the club as I write I leave you to guess as to who the winners were.
Otherwise it was great to see the regulars out there and I look forward to seeing the whole fleet once the weather improves. My thanks to Morgan who was the driver of Success today.. proved that you don't have to be over 30 to drive one of these crackers. :-) My thanks also to FSC who took me out onto the water today.
Please note that two cameras were used and some images will appear to be out of sequence.
As ever photographs are for sale. Special this week ...3 for $60
The 2019 Arlene 22nd of June
Including race 1 of the State IRC.
It's not a good weekend. This is the second day that has been canned and despite all the best intentions; the bar at FSC is looking mighty quiet with everyone wondering what would have happened if they'd gone out. Still there's always the footy during the arvo. We'll look forward to the next race.
Including race 1 of the State IRC.
It's not a good weekend. This is the second day that has been canned and despite all the best intentions; the bar at FSC is looking mighty quiet with everyone wondering what would have happened if they'd gone out. Still there's always the footy during the arvo. We'll look forward to the next race.
The 8th of June State IRC
Windward - Leeward Championships
Fair or foul, the weather was enough to can sailing for the day, in fact for the weekend. A pity, but with very little chance of the start boat holding its pick off Leighton Beach in the swells, it was decided that they would defer racing to another day.
The 2017 Valmadre Cup
The Voladora 5th of August 2017
First of all my apologies to Arthur Johns. Quite correctly I was admonished so blame my old age and failing memory. I'm sure someone told me... or was it just AJ and that's it. Arthur, not Alan!
Back on the start boat today and a light breeze forecast. I hope to head down to the finish line for a look at the finishers so get your kites ready.
Well that was the plan anyway. A severe case of man flu laid me low and I was delighted that Bernie K could slip into my spot to cover the assignment. My thanks to him and the understanding from the staff at FSC. Nobody like a cold and this was no ordinary beast. Better luck next year.
The 2017 Valmadre Cup
The Mayflower 22nd July 2017
This time FSC and Scott have gone all out to provide a rib and I'm extremely grateful for their co operation as we have not only the Valmadre this morning but the Huck Scott as well and as soon as we have covered the Valmadre starts and done a follow, we'll go down to the Huck Scott course to follow the off the beach crowd. See you on the water.
A rather lumpy day presented itself with a decent westerly of 10 to 15 knots moving through the water off Leighton beach. The fleets were well populated and there was an urgent buzz around the start line. As usual the heavies of the Div. Two were in evidence and the sight of the fleet lining up was enough to make the hackles on the back of my neck stand up. New sails too... Um ..... black ones .... I'm sure you all saw them. Though I still want to know why drilling through a starboard fleet on port is considered as being the quickest way to the front of the fleet. I'm sure someone will tell me.
The Dubs got away with a few extra's on the line; welcome back '54 and I haven't seen Baci on the Dubs line up before, but I stand to be corrected. Just good to see 5 boats on the line.
The Div ones welcomed back Wasabi and the other boats were moving around assessing her return, well I was only there to photograph, but I remember her under a different stewardship and she was good then. Lyn Powell brought 4D out and we had Aquila on the water as well.. my word-the start line was worth watching. ( As an aside I passed by WoC in her pen on the way back and was told that she may be back in a few weeks {no stick yet though})
And then to the day buoy and watch to see those who over laid the mark, those who didn't and those who scraped by... All good photos.
My thanks to Scott from FSC who sorted out the needs of a boat and to Arthur Johns chief ( head) boson at FSC who took me out onto the water. His help around the course was most appreciated as was the use of his boat. I couldn't have covered the Mayflower and the Huck Scott without his help.
Enjoy the images.
The Mayflower 22nd July 2017
This time FSC and Scott have gone all out to provide a rib and I'm extremely grateful for their co operation as we have not only the Valmadre this morning but the Huck Scott as well and as soon as we have covered the Valmadre starts and done a follow, we'll go down to the Huck Scott course to follow the off the beach crowd. See you on the water.
A rather lumpy day presented itself with a decent westerly of 10 to 15 knots moving through the water off Leighton beach. The fleets were well populated and there was an urgent buzz around the start line. As usual the heavies of the Div. Two were in evidence and the sight of the fleet lining up was enough to make the hackles on the back of my neck stand up. New sails too... Um ..... black ones .... I'm sure you all saw them. Though I still want to know why drilling through a starboard fleet on port is considered as being the quickest way to the front of the fleet. I'm sure someone will tell me.
The Dubs got away with a few extra's on the line; welcome back '54 and I haven't seen Baci on the Dubs line up before, but I stand to be corrected. Just good to see 5 boats on the line.
The Div ones welcomed back Wasabi and the other boats were moving around assessing her return, well I was only there to photograph, but I remember her under a different stewardship and she was good then. Lyn Powell brought 4D out and we had Aquila on the water as well.. my word-the start line was worth watching. ( As an aside I passed by WoC in her pen on the way back and was told that she may be back in a few weeks {no stick yet though})
And then to the day buoy and watch to see those who over laid the mark, those who didn't and those who scraped by... All good photos.
My thanks to Scott from FSC who sorted out the needs of a boat and to Arthur Johns chief ( head) boson at FSC who took me out onto the water. His help around the course was most appreciated as was the use of his boat. I couldn't have covered the Mayflower and the Huck Scott without his help.
Enjoy the images.
The 2017 Valmadre Cup
The Ensign 8th of July 2017
A warm sunny day with lots of wind... Not.
Still I was grateful for the coffee offered, though the breakfast chef had disappeared into his kitchen and was sending down the bacon and egg rolls as required. Yes, it's warmer in the kitchen.
A still day with the waft of a sou easterly disturbing the water outside Leighton beach and providing enough to get novitiate RO Dubbo Esq. thinking about where to set the line. And the breeze improved a little, but the current had the boat pointing one way with the breeze going another. So the start line was over the stern of the boat and not upsun as I have had before.
The double handers were away first with no problems to be reported from the start line and then the second div was sent away with a slight hiccup. Right idea and the wrong flag. Ooops. An AP and the problem sorted in a few short minutes. The second time around, it got a little interesting with possibilities on the line being almost endless. But our friends on Minds Eye managed to drift back below the line and we watched as another 34.7 wandered across and was asked to return after the start. Well done to Dynamic ( Laurie ) who manages to get both good sail makers and tactician on the boat regularly. Came in late and promptly went right into clear air and closer to the breeze.
Then the truncated div one. Good sailing; no question but I miss the r & r of a full start line that's hurting to win.
Thanks to the start line crew, FSC and of course the sailors on the day.
As to the results. Ooh boy, I was away with the national teams racing during the arvo and we finally got some pressure on the river by about 2 pm. I'll let Laurie tell the story from his point of view.. it's bound to be good.
Enjoy the images.
The Ensign 8th of July 2017
A warm sunny day with lots of wind... Not.
Still I was grateful for the coffee offered, though the breakfast chef had disappeared into his kitchen and was sending down the bacon and egg rolls as required. Yes, it's warmer in the kitchen.
A still day with the waft of a sou easterly disturbing the water outside Leighton beach and providing enough to get novitiate RO Dubbo Esq. thinking about where to set the line. And the breeze improved a little, but the current had the boat pointing one way with the breeze going another. So the start line was over the stern of the boat and not upsun as I have had before.
The double handers were away first with no problems to be reported from the start line and then the second div was sent away with a slight hiccup. Right idea and the wrong flag. Ooops. An AP and the problem sorted in a few short minutes. The second time around, it got a little interesting with possibilities on the line being almost endless. But our friends on Minds Eye managed to drift back below the line and we watched as another 34.7 wandered across and was asked to return after the start. Well done to Dynamic ( Laurie ) who manages to get both good sail makers and tactician on the boat regularly. Came in late and promptly went right into clear air and closer to the breeze.
Then the truncated div one. Good sailing; no question but I miss the r & r of a full start line that's hurting to win.
Thanks to the start line crew, FSC and of course the sailors on the day.
As to the results. Ooh boy, I was away with the national teams racing during the arvo and we finally got some pressure on the river by about 2 pm. I'll let Laurie tell the story from his point of view.. it's bound to be good.
Enjoy the images.
The 2017 Valmadre Cup
The Arlene 24th of June 2017
A regular Sou easter that had a note of 15 knots in it, greeted the 26 strong fleet as they took off for the first of the Valmadre Cup races... The Arlene..
There's a difference this year, with a number of the big boats up around Darwin or further afield in Bali so they bumped a few of the bigger boats in div 2 up to div one and absorbed all the div three boats into div 2 ( that's the story I was told ). But we had a great double handed division on the go with six boats on the go and a lot of smiley faces as they took off from the line today. I gather Alison Stock has been doing a little pot stirring in this area.
However it was sheer joy to see a bunch of 34.7's contending for the start line with a couple of 35's on the go as well. All that and watching a late starting 35 ( R1111) hit the line, almost falling over themselves as a gust hit and then flick over onto the other tack and go barreling up toward the mark. Fun to watch.
Good to see a couple of new boats out with Naughty Black Shorts ( a Swan 32 ) and the Low Flying Duck (S97) romping onto the water and the return of Mulberry under Mark Pitt and Minds Eye with the Burtenshaw father and son combo out for a yot... though I did notice a sail maker on board. (g'day Geoff)
There are one or two big boats who will return shortly once they have their rigs repaired and I look forward to the return of Obsession and Weapon of Choice once they get the gear sorted. The same applies to the return of the other div one boats as I do enjoy the big boat action on the water.
From a photographers point of view:
A sou easter meant that I was shooting "into the sun". Not nice and perhaps not as many images as I would have liked. But its no-ones fault and you just have to deal with it. I was using two camera's today so there will be two separate strings of images.
Congrats to Dubbo who was on the start boat today as RO and dealt with all that was thrown at him.....
Enjoy the images and thanks to FSC and the start team for taking me out there.
The Arlene 24th of June 2017
A regular Sou easter that had a note of 15 knots in it, greeted the 26 strong fleet as they took off for the first of the Valmadre Cup races... The Arlene..
There's a difference this year, with a number of the big boats up around Darwin or further afield in Bali so they bumped a few of the bigger boats in div 2 up to div one and absorbed all the div three boats into div 2 ( that's the story I was told ). But we had a great double handed division on the go with six boats on the go and a lot of smiley faces as they took off from the line today. I gather Alison Stock has been doing a little pot stirring in this area.
However it was sheer joy to see a bunch of 34.7's contending for the start line with a couple of 35's on the go as well. All that and watching a late starting 35 ( R1111) hit the line, almost falling over themselves as a gust hit and then flick over onto the other tack and go barreling up toward the mark. Fun to watch.
Good to see a couple of new boats out with Naughty Black Shorts ( a Swan 32 ) and the Low Flying Duck (S97) romping onto the water and the return of Mulberry under Mark Pitt and Minds Eye with the Burtenshaw father and son combo out for a yot... though I did notice a sail maker on board. (g'day Geoff)
There are one or two big boats who will return shortly once they have their rigs repaired and I look forward to the return of Obsession and Weapon of Choice once they get the gear sorted. The same applies to the return of the other div one boats as I do enjoy the big boat action on the water.
From a photographers point of view:
A sou easter meant that I was shooting "into the sun". Not nice and perhaps not as many images as I would have liked. But its no-ones fault and you just have to deal with it. I was using two camera's today so there will be two separate strings of images.
Congrats to Dubbo who was on the start boat today as RO and dealt with all that was thrown at him.....
Enjoy the images and thanks to FSC and the start team for taking me out there.
The 2015 Valmadre Cup
The Voladora Races 1st of August 2015
I'm probably walking on thin ice here, but it was a hell of a way to finish the series. Seconds and thirds with drops to count and a boat that tried to get itself off the record before the start. A few confused faces were seen on our media boat as we started to watch and photograph the last two races of the Valmadre Cup for 2015.
A full field hit the water with div two amped up to the max and a good start line on board with div one. New scores had to be settled and handicaps were just that, as the previous round of racing had adjusted every thing. For once the breeze was different and we settled into the day with a south easterly in hand of 10 to 15 knots and a few decent gusts coming through. The decision was whether to go out (right) and hope not to have the turbulence from the shore, or count on the turbulence to give you a lift into the mark. The course was nearly two nm and the top had the boats tucking into the bend of the headlands out to North Mole.
A cool day had us rugged up and the racing began well with the three double handers getting off to a spirited start for the passage race with Matt Dickman's 54 nearly on it's ear as he hit the start line. The next away were Div. one and while some got away early, others didn't. Div. two had a great start with the line being swamped as usual. Say no more. Div. three decorously stepped over the line and the windward leeward racing was on for young and all.
A few stories developed out of the day and the friendly drone that was whizzing over head a couple of weeks ago was first reported to have dropped out of the sky according to a call to our driver and then confirmed after racing by Laurie Flynne who had it drop onto his boat and then go skidding off into the ocean. Geeze Laurie ... no slips fielders on the boat apparently. According to the pundits, it cost well over a thousand to put the drone in the air and several more $ for the camera. So long, farewell etc.
By and Large under Brent Fowler's stewardship had Laser sailor Mark Spearman on board today and it's been noted to have had quite a number of younger sailors aboard this series and the four boats from East Fremantle (yes four) managed to get a 4.7 laser champion on board as well. Good to see you Zoe and noted that your bro was on another EF boat.
The second round of racing was harder still as the points were apparently even for the Div. one boats, but the second div boats were pretty much sorted out. Hey, didn't stop the division going for a general recall though. Div three was sent away and we shot up to the top mark for the roundings leaving div two to sort themselves out.
Finishing well in a big boat needs iron nerves, especially when the owner is on board or watching closely and both of the larger boats had moments that had us gasping. All was well though and full credit to the training of the crew. As a keel boat racer I understand the perils of heading straight down wind with a kite on a pole. The heel on David Walling's The Next Factor in the first race was almost as good as a Dragon going down wind.....
Still it was a good series with surprises for all at the end.
The over all results may be found here: http://www.fsc.com.au/cproot/3597/3/OVERALL%20RESULTS%20Valmadre%20Series%20Cup.pdf
My thanks to Lucy Warhurst of FSC and the entire FSC offshore team that ran the racing. To Manfred Speicher of Pantaenius who drove us around for the series and provided a wealth of knowledge as well as sponsoring the Pantaenius State IRC W/L racing event. To Ed Fethers, doyen of sailing radio in WA my personal thanks for your help in discovering the little tales that enrich the stories we tell. And to the company of the many visitors on the media boat; Astrid Mitchell (Calm Racing), Suzzi Ghent of RFBYC and Paul Eldrid's partner Sarah.
The presentation images will be up tomorrow ( I hope )
A full field hit the water with div two amped up to the max and a good start line on board with div one. New scores had to be settled and handicaps were just that, as the previous round of racing had adjusted every thing. For once the breeze was different and we settled into the day with a south easterly in hand of 10 to 15 knots and a few decent gusts coming through. The decision was whether to go out (right) and hope not to have the turbulence from the shore, or count on the turbulence to give you a lift into the mark. The course was nearly two nm and the top had the boats tucking into the bend of the headlands out to North Mole.
A cool day had us rugged up and the racing began well with the three double handers getting off to a spirited start for the passage race with Matt Dickman's 54 nearly on it's ear as he hit the start line. The next away were Div. one and while some got away early, others didn't. Div. two had a great start with the line being swamped as usual. Say no more. Div. three decorously stepped over the line and the windward leeward racing was on for young and all.
A few stories developed out of the day and the friendly drone that was whizzing over head a couple of weeks ago was first reported to have dropped out of the sky according to a call to our driver and then confirmed after racing by Laurie Flynne who had it drop onto his boat and then go skidding off into the ocean. Geeze Laurie ... no slips fielders on the boat apparently. According to the pundits, it cost well over a thousand to put the drone in the air and several more $ for the camera. So long, farewell etc.
By and Large under Brent Fowler's stewardship had Laser sailor Mark Spearman on board today and it's been noted to have had quite a number of younger sailors aboard this series and the four boats from East Fremantle (yes four) managed to get a 4.7 laser champion on board as well. Good to see you Zoe and noted that your bro was on another EF boat.
The second round of racing was harder still as the points were apparently even for the Div. one boats, but the second div boats were pretty much sorted out. Hey, didn't stop the division going for a general recall though. Div three was sent away and we shot up to the top mark for the roundings leaving div two to sort themselves out.
Finishing well in a big boat needs iron nerves, especially when the owner is on board or watching closely and both of the larger boats had moments that had us gasping. All was well though and full credit to the training of the crew. As a keel boat racer I understand the perils of heading straight down wind with a kite on a pole. The heel on David Walling's The Next Factor in the first race was almost as good as a Dragon going down wind.....
Still it was a good series with surprises for all at the end.
The over all results may be found here: http://www.fsc.com.au/cproot/3597/3/OVERALL%20RESULTS%20Valmadre%20Series%20Cup.pdf
My thanks to Lucy Warhurst of FSC and the entire FSC offshore team that ran the racing. To Manfred Speicher of Pantaenius who drove us around for the series and provided a wealth of knowledge as well as sponsoring the Pantaenius State IRC W/L racing event. To Ed Fethers, doyen of sailing radio in WA my personal thanks for your help in discovering the little tales that enrich the stories we tell. And to the company of the many visitors on the media boat; Astrid Mitchell (Calm Racing), Suzzi Ghent of RFBYC and Paul Eldrid's partner Sarah.
The presentation images will be up tomorrow ( I hope )
The Presentations at FSC
The presentations were held in the alfresco area to the side of the yacht club and a large crowd of sailors filled the space. May be not all, but it was a great mob and they were all interested in the results as were we. With Hips on board as the offshore racing captain, it was a baptism by fire and despite moments of despair when the breeze took the assembled notes flying, he did well. I reckon that he'll look good in whites, providing he can still wear elastic sided boots at the bottom of the rig. The results were read out and everyone cheered the winners, especially when the bell was rung. A special vote of thanks to Manfred Speicher of Pantaenius sail and motor yacht insurance for hosting the State IRC regatta ( mini series ) was had and presence of Les and Marina Valmadre gave weight to the presentations on the day.
The 2015 Pantaenius WA IRC State Championships
Finally, a half way decent day to get out onto the water.
Our regular RO was away up North for the weekend so Keith Charlwood was kind enough to step up and taken on the role as Race Officer for the day. A rumour was rolling around the place that Calm had snaffled a certain Luke Parkinson to come out for the day and sure enough as we wandered down to the dock, there was Luke dressed for the day in a Calm shirt. He was brought on board with a minimum of fuss and he found himself working with the crew loading the sails for the day. Noted that Alison was not on board Selkie (a pity) and Mike Giles was elected to drive for the day.
The day itself was sunny with a nor easter coming up nicely and a minimum of swell to contend with for the windward leeward racing on the day. The breeze was at about 10 knots and building as the contenders came onto the course and the racing was going to be good, though numbers were down; probably because of the number of times we had had to re run this particular event. No matter, we were there to enjoy the day.
I'll let the results speak for themselves, but the discussions on the Pantaenius media boat after the first race had us perplexed as to the result of the first race on handicap... It was clear that Calm was first over the line, but how close was Indian? And The NeXt Factor? No joy however for Division two with three starts required as the enthusiasm shown by the skippers led to two general recalls and I'm surprised that the black flag wasn't hung out as a warning. However a third try had the one offender return to dip the line and then sail back to rejoin the fleet. Well sailed Giddyup. A good win with a bunch of hard fighting chasers.
The next round was a little more predictable with Calm making no mistakes and doing what had to be done for the win. The NeXt Factor did well to hold onto third with Craig Carters Indian slipping into second. In Div. two, whilst the Halverson family held sway, the battle between the two Foundation 36's in By and Large and The X Factor has been fascinating with a bad spinnaker drop in the second race costing The X Factor any chance of beating By and Large twice on the day. Scott Glaskin's Cougar also had a moment at the gates with a spinnaker deciding to prove troublesome on the rounding. In Div. Three Laurie Flynn's Dynamic did well to top the mini series and its good to see him score bullets right through the IRC series.
A note. I was using two cameras today and the first dozen or so images are out of phase.. Sorry, but they were good ones.
However in the long run... it's a matter of seconds and not thirds and the battle at the top has to be decided next week with The Indian in front of Calm, with The NeXt Factor third. Only two points separate first from third. As the people from TNF were heard to remark.. "It's nice to be this close, anything could happen."
Results for the day: http://www.fsc.com.au/cproot/3586/3/Sunday%20Mini%20Championships.docx%2026%20July.pdf
Progressive results: http://www.fsc.com.au/cproot/3583/3/2015%20IRC%20Progressives%20uo%20to%20Sunday%2026%20July%202015.pdf
Our regular RO was away up North for the weekend so Keith Charlwood was kind enough to step up and taken on the role as Race Officer for the day. A rumour was rolling around the place that Calm had snaffled a certain Luke Parkinson to come out for the day and sure enough as we wandered down to the dock, there was Luke dressed for the day in a Calm shirt. He was brought on board with a minimum of fuss and he found himself working with the crew loading the sails for the day. Noted that Alison was not on board Selkie (a pity) and Mike Giles was elected to drive for the day.
The day itself was sunny with a nor easter coming up nicely and a minimum of swell to contend with for the windward leeward racing on the day. The breeze was at about 10 knots and building as the contenders came onto the course and the racing was going to be good, though numbers were down; probably because of the number of times we had had to re run this particular event. No matter, we were there to enjoy the day.
I'll let the results speak for themselves, but the discussions on the Pantaenius media boat after the first race had us perplexed as to the result of the first race on handicap... It was clear that Calm was first over the line, but how close was Indian? And The NeXt Factor? No joy however for Division two with three starts required as the enthusiasm shown by the skippers led to two general recalls and I'm surprised that the black flag wasn't hung out as a warning. However a third try had the one offender return to dip the line and then sail back to rejoin the fleet. Well sailed Giddyup. A good win with a bunch of hard fighting chasers.
The next round was a little more predictable with Calm making no mistakes and doing what had to be done for the win. The NeXt Factor did well to hold onto third with Craig Carters Indian slipping into second. In Div. two, whilst the Halverson family held sway, the battle between the two Foundation 36's in By and Large and The X Factor has been fascinating with a bad spinnaker drop in the second race costing The X Factor any chance of beating By and Large twice on the day. Scott Glaskin's Cougar also had a moment at the gates with a spinnaker deciding to prove troublesome on the rounding. In Div. Three Laurie Flynn's Dynamic did well to top the mini series and its good to see him score bullets right through the IRC series.
A note. I was using two cameras today and the first dozen or so images are out of phase.. Sorry, but they were good ones.
However in the long run... it's a matter of seconds and not thirds and the battle at the top has to be decided next week with The Indian in front of Calm, with The NeXt Factor third. Only two points separate first from third. As the people from TNF were heard to remark.. "It's nice to be this close, anything could happen."
Results for the day: http://www.fsc.com.au/cproot/3586/3/Sunday%20Mini%20Championships.docx%2026%20July.pdf
Progressive results: http://www.fsc.com.au/cproot/3583/3/2015%20IRC%20Progressives%20uo%20to%20Sunday%2026%20July%202015.pdf
The Mayflower Race on Saturday the 18th of July
and the Pantaenius WA IRC
windward-leeward racing on the Sunday
The Pantaenius WA IRC
Windward-leeward racing on Sunday the 19th of July
Due to high winds forecast for the day, racing was abandoned and will be re-sailed on Sunday next.
Windward-leeward racing on Sunday the 19th of July
Due to high winds forecast for the day, racing was abandoned and will be re-sailed on Sunday next.
The Mayflower Race Saturday the 18th of July
A little bit of magic this afternoon. In a north easterly of about 8 to 10 knots, RO Trevor Milne sent the fleets out on time near the beaches off North Mole. As we motored out on the Pantaenius cruiser helmed by Manfred Speicher we noticed that Peter Gilmour was on board The Next Factor. Hummmm! A little bit of last minute winch maintenance on Dirty Deeds was noticed. Then of course there were other additions to the off shore boats with Amanda Wilmot ( SS27 state champion skipper) on the sheet on board Dynamic and Jason Furnell (Farrago) on board Dirty Deeds. Either they had nothing to do on Saturday or they had been inveigled into rejoining the offshore fleets for a while. Good to see them. The owner and sometimes offshore skipper of By and Large, YWA president Denys Pearce was in charge today and did a creditable job of the start and I do admire the smart blue kit the crew are wearing. But this story is not about them or the madness that sometimes occurs in Div. two on the start line..
At the front of the fleet in Div. One were Indian and Calm helmed by sail makers Paul Eldrid and Andrew Harry respectively. In my opinion, as great sailors they understand the design of their yachts, how to motivate their team and importantly how to make their sails work to their advantage. Calm will go out and work the start line; continuously checking the line and the shifts. Indian prefers not to approach the start boat for jelly snakes and is unlikely to join the melee until later in the time period, then carries out the same checks. But they are hard to photograph together prestart.
Getting away well and using the breezes into the day buoy, Indian had maintained a lead up to Hallbank and despite some very fine sailing and adroit work by the foredeck on Calm, Indian was still in front. We shot off back to FSC to begin work on stories and photo's and the display for the sailors once they got back. Then the SMS's and phone calls started to come in .. Calm and Indian match racing in quiet airs...... Indian splits from Calm and goes their own way..... Indian wins by one second... All this and I'm in front of a computer trying to make sense of 600+ images so that the sailors can see what the start looked like. NO THANKS. I'd rather be watching the racing.
However it's getting late and I have to put these images up. The weather tomorrow looks challenging and I looking for some awesome photos and video from the day.
Cheers
A little bit of magic this afternoon. In a north easterly of about 8 to 10 knots, RO Trevor Milne sent the fleets out on time near the beaches off North Mole. As we motored out on the Pantaenius cruiser helmed by Manfred Speicher we noticed that Peter Gilmour was on board The Next Factor. Hummmm! A little bit of last minute winch maintenance on Dirty Deeds was noticed. Then of course there were other additions to the off shore boats with Amanda Wilmot ( SS27 state champion skipper) on the sheet on board Dynamic and Jason Furnell (Farrago) on board Dirty Deeds. Either they had nothing to do on Saturday or they had been inveigled into rejoining the offshore fleets for a while. Good to see them. The owner and sometimes offshore skipper of By and Large, YWA president Denys Pearce was in charge today and did a creditable job of the start and I do admire the smart blue kit the crew are wearing. But this story is not about them or the madness that sometimes occurs in Div. two on the start line..
At the front of the fleet in Div. One were Indian and Calm helmed by sail makers Paul Eldrid and Andrew Harry respectively. In my opinion, as great sailors they understand the design of their yachts, how to motivate their team and importantly how to make their sails work to their advantage. Calm will go out and work the start line; continuously checking the line and the shifts. Indian prefers not to approach the start boat for jelly snakes and is unlikely to join the melee until later in the time period, then carries out the same checks. But they are hard to photograph together prestart.
Getting away well and using the breezes into the day buoy, Indian had maintained a lead up to Hallbank and despite some very fine sailing and adroit work by the foredeck on Calm, Indian was still in front. We shot off back to FSC to begin work on stories and photo's and the display for the sailors once they got back. Then the SMS's and phone calls started to come in .. Calm and Indian match racing in quiet airs...... Indian splits from Calm and goes their own way..... Indian wins by one second... All this and I'm in front of a computer trying to make sense of 600+ images so that the sailors can see what the start looked like. NO THANKS. I'd rather be watching the racing.
However it's getting late and I have to put these images up. The weather tomorrow looks challenging and I looking for some awesome photos and video from the day.
Cheers
The Ensign Race on Saturday 4th of July
and the Pantaenius WA IRC
windward-leeward racing on the Sunday
Sunday, bloody Sunday........ A tough, but fair decision was made.... A over N
Driving down to the club was like being in adventure land with thick fog covering the hinterland. Only when I rose to the last rise of the Leach highway before the drop into Fremantle, did the fog suddenly lift and the coast line stood proud and clear. Stepping onto the Pantaenius cruiser, we set off onto the water passing Calm ( as usual ) getting ready to leave and watched as the yachts caught up with us.
The breeze was light out of the nor east and a very small swell of no consequence at all. Perfect for racing. The track was laid by Trevor Milne, our Race Officer and we watched with amazement as the Double Handers split into two fleets. Those who began minutes before the gun and the one boat who started in the proper sequence. ( more later ).
With the storm light and the black background off shore, the yachts were often brilliantly displayed against the backdrop and even the rainbows managed to hi light the passing yachts. Getting bogged down with the wind shifts an AP was thrown up for the rest of the fleets and we settled in for the well known waiting game as the breeze shifted around the compass.
By 10.30 and a series of course changes, the darkening clouds to the south loomed closer and a persistent drizzle began to fall. More waiting and finally a small puff from the west was seen on a yacht that had ventured south. It was coming up with a full kite and even as we watched, the breeze dropped out and the spinnaker fell to the deck. Another wind failure. So more waiting.
At 11.15 we were working around the yachts to get the occasional photo as Ed kept us entertained with jokes and tales from his past. Most appreciated Ed! A visit to one of the Div. one boats gave us an idea of what they thought and we, I'm afraid, concurred. Pack it up and go home. Then a suspiciously large naval vessel slipped into the shipping channel and all hope of starting a race was put aside until it had passed by.
Shortly after we heard on the UHF, the two DH boats that had set off earlier than the advertised start time advising the RO that they were withdrawing from the race and were heading for shore. This left one boat to finish the race un-apposed. Given the weather and the ever changing breezes, RO Trevor made the best of the day and advised the rest of the Divisions that racing had been abandoned for the day and that they could retire to port as soon as practical.
The races have been rescheduled for the 19th of July after the Mayflower on the 18th. See you there.
Driving down to the club was like being in adventure land with thick fog covering the hinterland. Only when I rose to the last rise of the Leach highway before the drop into Fremantle, did the fog suddenly lift and the coast line stood proud and clear. Stepping onto the Pantaenius cruiser, we set off onto the water passing Calm ( as usual ) getting ready to leave and watched as the yachts caught up with us.
The breeze was light out of the nor east and a very small swell of no consequence at all. Perfect for racing. The track was laid by Trevor Milne, our Race Officer and we watched with amazement as the Double Handers split into two fleets. Those who began minutes before the gun and the one boat who started in the proper sequence. ( more later ).
With the storm light and the black background off shore, the yachts were often brilliantly displayed against the backdrop and even the rainbows managed to hi light the passing yachts. Getting bogged down with the wind shifts an AP was thrown up for the rest of the fleets and we settled in for the well known waiting game as the breeze shifted around the compass.
By 10.30 and a series of course changes, the darkening clouds to the south loomed closer and a persistent drizzle began to fall. More waiting and finally a small puff from the west was seen on a yacht that had ventured south. It was coming up with a full kite and even as we watched, the breeze dropped out and the spinnaker fell to the deck. Another wind failure. So more waiting.
At 11.15 we were working around the yachts to get the occasional photo as Ed kept us entertained with jokes and tales from his past. Most appreciated Ed! A visit to one of the Div. one boats gave us an idea of what they thought and we, I'm afraid, concurred. Pack it up and go home. Then a suspiciously large naval vessel slipped into the shipping channel and all hope of starting a race was put aside until it had passed by.
Shortly after we heard on the UHF, the two DH boats that had set off earlier than the advertised start time advising the RO that they were withdrawing from the race and were heading for shore. This left one boat to finish the race un-apposed. Given the weather and the ever changing breezes, RO Trevor made the best of the day and advised the rest of the Divisions that racing had been abandoned for the day and that they could retire to port as soon as practical.
The races have been rescheduled for the 19th of July after the Mayflower on the 18th. See you there.
This is Saturdays report:
Hope you enjoyed the photo's down at the club.
And what a day it was, with a great selection of skippers that were not driving boats, but still out on the water and more importantly a great number of the younger guys that are coming through from the skiffs and smaller sailing teams. Where can I start .. first of all Billy L was seen on deck with the Calm team. First time back for a while and looked as good as he has ever been. Great to see him up there. Old Salt Mike Giles went for a spin with Alison and Peter Vlaar was seen in company with Bill Burbidge on Rob Thomas' Finistere. 80's Match racing champion Andrew Bell was out on Argo with Chris Higham and Pete Vlaar's daughter Sonia was in charge of a winch when I saw her whizz past. Mark Whittaker and Alex Landwehr of the Red line Racing Team were out on the water with By and Large and I believe that the owners were on board as well. Noted Mothy and 29er Steve Thomas was out as well and full of experience... Geoff Bishop was still on board GU and seems to like it there. Hope you like your photo Geoff.
Getting back to the day.... with a quiet day forecast with light winds out of the north east of no more than 10 to 12 knots and little if any swell. A marked contrast to the Arlene race and welcome.
The boats lined up and took off under the watchful eyes of RO Trevor Milne and his team with Sailing and Events manager Lucy lining up on the rail to deliver the best handfuls of jelly snakes I've seen thrown for a while, covering 15 meters on a good pitch.
In the Double Handers "54" managed to wander so far over the line before the start, that the RO was delighted to see him back within the allotted time. Division three got away well and with 12 boats they had a good start line. The interest of course was in Div. two with 20 boats on the go and two waves hitting the line as the prudent restrained their urges to get the good start. One boat managed to get over the line so well that the RO was waiting for at least a minute before he could make the all clear call. It was noticeable that several boats tacked off right after the line. I'm sure it was for clean air or possibly they were looking for the lift along the shore that may have been there. Div. one lined up and all seven boats were comfortable with the pace and the line with few hassles to begin with.
By the time that Div.one got way, the first boats were up around the top mark and with kites and screechers set, it was the beginning of the second race of the Valmadre Cup.
For results go to http://www.fsc.com.au/cproot/3547/3/ensign%20results.pdf
I'll be putting up the Pantaenius IRC windward / leeward photos on Monday... this has been a long night.
Hope you enjoyed the photo's down at the club.
And what a day it was, with a great selection of skippers that were not driving boats, but still out on the water and more importantly a great number of the younger guys that are coming through from the skiffs and smaller sailing teams. Where can I start .. first of all Billy L was seen on deck with the Calm team. First time back for a while and looked as good as he has ever been. Great to see him up there. Old Salt Mike Giles went for a spin with Alison and Peter Vlaar was seen in company with Bill Burbidge on Rob Thomas' Finistere. 80's Match racing champion Andrew Bell was out on Argo with Chris Higham and Pete Vlaar's daughter Sonia was in charge of a winch when I saw her whizz past. Mark Whittaker and Alex Landwehr of the Red line Racing Team were out on the water with By and Large and I believe that the owners were on board as well. Noted Mothy and 29er Steve Thomas was out as well and full of experience... Geoff Bishop was still on board GU and seems to like it there. Hope you like your photo Geoff.
Getting back to the day.... with a quiet day forecast with light winds out of the north east of no more than 10 to 12 knots and little if any swell. A marked contrast to the Arlene race and welcome.
The boats lined up and took off under the watchful eyes of RO Trevor Milne and his team with Sailing and Events manager Lucy lining up on the rail to deliver the best handfuls of jelly snakes I've seen thrown for a while, covering 15 meters on a good pitch.
In the Double Handers "54" managed to wander so far over the line before the start, that the RO was delighted to see him back within the allotted time. Division three got away well and with 12 boats they had a good start line. The interest of course was in Div. two with 20 boats on the go and two waves hitting the line as the prudent restrained their urges to get the good start. One boat managed to get over the line so well that the RO was waiting for at least a minute before he could make the all clear call. It was noticeable that several boats tacked off right after the line. I'm sure it was for clean air or possibly they were looking for the lift along the shore that may have been there. Div. one lined up and all seven boats were comfortable with the pace and the line with few hassles to begin with.
By the time that Div.one got way, the first boats were up around the top mark and with kites and screechers set, it was the beginning of the second race of the Valmadre Cup.
For results go to http://www.fsc.com.au/cproot/3547/3/ensign%20results.pdf
I'll be putting up the Pantaenius IRC windward / leeward photos on Monday... this has been a long night.
The Arlene the 20th of June
Once again the winter series starts with a difference. Pantaenius Australia Sail & Motor Yacht Insurance has come on board for the State IRC racing series and as they are being run concurrently with the Valmadre Cup, it will be a huge boon for the offshore sailors. As of the 14th of June there are already 40+ boats signed up and the boom doesn't drop until 5 pm on Monday the 15th of June. I have been offered a ride on the Pantaenius cruiser/rib and as a photo platform, it should be superb. Many thanks to Manfred Speicher of Pantaenius for the generous offer and to Laurie Flynn who promoted me to Manfred.
Let the 2015 Valmadre Cup begin.
Wandering into the club for the fourth season (for me), faces were familiar and the scent of coffee and bacon and eggs rang a sweet note to the slightly worn out head on my shoulders. Meeting Ed Fethers ( the radio sailing sports guru ) who was to write the notes for the day, we headed down to Manfred's boat and set off. Astrid Mitchell was on board and it was great to see her on the water watching Calm out for the day.
It was a consistent nor wester of about 15 knots with a lumpy, bumpy swell that was full of hollow backs and cross waves. The boats were coping with it well and apart from the occasional moment when the swell was higher than the boat we were in.. no problems.
41 boats hit the water today with notable exceptions in all divisions as some counted the cost of the heavy campaigns of summer. In a reversal of the expected format, the double handers were set off first with 4 boats away ( 3 IRC) and rapidly followed by the div three crews with 12 boats on the line of which 6 were in IRC mode.
Div two was a riot for a start with the start split between the pin end and the boat end and RO Trevor was a little worried over the crowding at the start boat. He was prepared to start fending off the boats with a boat hook as they luffed up and one boat got through by the skin of his teeth and in fact tacked off to get out of the dirty air he was in. We had to get out of the way in a hurry! Welcome by the way to Jamie Weedon on Wild Bull, Todd Giraudo with Kraken (fully crewed) and Chris Higham's Argo. (These ones I know, there may be others). A suggestion to the Halverson family ... let Geoff Bishop keep driving the boat. He did fine out there today.
Then Div one took off. Lacking Anthony Kirke and Enterprise and Alan Steins Dirty Deeds it was a little slim on the line, but the presence of the old favourites, Finistere and Syrenka along with a newcomer Southern Star; the line set off with a roar. The battle was between Calm and Indian and two old school chums and sail makers extraordinaire were set head to head. The results may be found at the club website. http://www.fsc.com.au/cproot/3523/3/arlene%20results.pdf
A great day on the water and I'll spend the next day or so putting up various sets of images apart from what you can see below.
My apologies to Geoff Bishop who's name I inadvertently gave as David.....shit happens Geoff, you still did a fine job on the helm. Thank your mates who rang me to tell me of the blunder.
Cheers Rick Steuart
Let the 2015 Valmadre Cup begin.
Wandering into the club for the fourth season (for me), faces were familiar and the scent of coffee and bacon and eggs rang a sweet note to the slightly worn out head on my shoulders. Meeting Ed Fethers ( the radio sailing sports guru ) who was to write the notes for the day, we headed down to Manfred's boat and set off. Astrid Mitchell was on board and it was great to see her on the water watching Calm out for the day.
It was a consistent nor wester of about 15 knots with a lumpy, bumpy swell that was full of hollow backs and cross waves. The boats were coping with it well and apart from the occasional moment when the swell was higher than the boat we were in.. no problems.
41 boats hit the water today with notable exceptions in all divisions as some counted the cost of the heavy campaigns of summer. In a reversal of the expected format, the double handers were set off first with 4 boats away ( 3 IRC) and rapidly followed by the div three crews with 12 boats on the line of which 6 were in IRC mode.
Div two was a riot for a start with the start split between the pin end and the boat end and RO Trevor was a little worried over the crowding at the start boat. He was prepared to start fending off the boats with a boat hook as they luffed up and one boat got through by the skin of his teeth and in fact tacked off to get out of the dirty air he was in. We had to get out of the way in a hurry! Welcome by the way to Jamie Weedon on Wild Bull, Todd Giraudo with Kraken (fully crewed) and Chris Higham's Argo. (These ones I know, there may be others). A suggestion to the Halverson family ... let Geoff Bishop keep driving the boat. He did fine out there today.
Then Div one took off. Lacking Anthony Kirke and Enterprise and Alan Steins Dirty Deeds it was a little slim on the line, but the presence of the old favourites, Finistere and Syrenka along with a newcomer Southern Star; the line set off with a roar. The battle was between Calm and Indian and two old school chums and sail makers extraordinaire were set head to head. The results may be found at the club website. http://www.fsc.com.au/cproot/3523/3/arlene%20results.pdf
A great day on the water and I'll spend the next day or so putting up various sets of images apart from what you can see below.
My apologies to Geoff Bishop who's name I inadvertently gave as David.....shit happens Geoff, you still did a fine job on the helm. Thank your mates who rang me to tell me of the blunder.
Cheers Rick Steuart
More images from the Arlene race ..... the finishes. Shot from South Mole ( Sorry no close ups )
The Voladora Race 2nd of August 2014
Where shall I start? A great day on the water with a softly dying nor easter and the promise of a south- south westerly to finish the day. The threat of a black flag if Div one and two stuffed up the start again?
No, the sausage rolls on the start boat made by Gillian Charlwood stole the day. Fantastic and the sausage rolls went down a treat. Thanks very much indeed.
Back to the racing ... little swell and the aforementioned nor-easter set us up for a course one and the determination on the faces of the first fleets away was such that they earned a general recall again, despite the black flag being worn by a member of the start team as a warning. So to complete the confusion, div three and four were sent away in sequence and then the line was set up for a suitably chastened div one and two. One or two div three and four boats were seen wandering over the line a few minutes late claiming that they thought that they would have to wait till the first fleet was gone again. Read the flags guys.
A very good second start and followed by a clean start by the div three - four fleets.
To make up for the lack of ability to get onto the course proper, I went down to South Mole and caught the div one and two fleets coming home and in the sou-south westerly they were running genoa's in the main and they were rolling along in fine form.
The second boat home over the line was heard to remark that the nav skills of the first boat home were not up to scratch and politely and promptly the first boat over the line RAF'd and consequently lost the coveted first place for the series. A pity, but we've all had that happen.
My thanks to Fremantle Sailing Club for the invitation to photograph the event and taking such good care of me on the water. In particular, thanks to the Race Officers, both Bernie and Charles who hosted me on the boats and the race team who never cease to amaze me with the tales of the boats and the people on the water. I look forward to next year. Many thanks to Lucy and Jaylee of the Sailing and Events team at FSC, their help in keeping me on the water has been great.
Results here : http://www.fsc.com.au/sailing-events/valmadre-cup-race-series-and-irc-championships/results/
Enjoy the pictures.
No, the sausage rolls on the start boat made by Gillian Charlwood stole the day. Fantastic and the sausage rolls went down a treat. Thanks very much indeed.
Back to the racing ... little swell and the aforementioned nor-easter set us up for a course one and the determination on the faces of the first fleets away was such that they earned a general recall again, despite the black flag being worn by a member of the start team as a warning. So to complete the confusion, div three and four were sent away in sequence and then the line was set up for a suitably chastened div one and two. One or two div three and four boats were seen wandering over the line a few minutes late claiming that they thought that they would have to wait till the first fleet was gone again. Read the flags guys.
A very good second start and followed by a clean start by the div three - four fleets.
To make up for the lack of ability to get onto the course proper, I went down to South Mole and caught the div one and two fleets coming home and in the sou-south westerly they were running genoa's in the main and they were rolling along in fine form.
The second boat home over the line was heard to remark that the nav skills of the first boat home were not up to scratch and politely and promptly the first boat over the line RAF'd and consequently lost the coveted first place for the series. A pity, but we've all had that happen.
My thanks to Fremantle Sailing Club for the invitation to photograph the event and taking such good care of me on the water. In particular, thanks to the Race Officers, both Bernie and Charles who hosted me on the boats and the race team who never cease to amaze me with the tales of the boats and the people on the water. I look forward to next year. Many thanks to Lucy and Jaylee of the Sailing and Events team at FSC, their help in keeping me on the water has been great.
Results here : http://www.fsc.com.au/sailing-events/valmadre-cup-race-series-and-irc-championships/results/
Enjoy the pictures.
The Mayflower Race 19th of July 2014
A great day on the water with Keith Charlwood of FSC taking the place of Trevor Milton as RO for the race.
A nor easter of 10 to 12 knots tipped to swing into the North with a storm brewing for the afternoon ( but nothing to upset the racing for the morning. )
Good numbers had the racetrack well filled and the boats were crowding up on the start line on a course one with a large number pushing the limit at the corner of the start boat to the point that a barge buoy was set behind the start boat to remind the hopefuls that it would be a good idea to keep clear. Minutes before the start, a slight bump between two div one boats reminded us of the urgency that was felt and with div one and two lining up together it was going to be a frantic start line.
And so it proved to be...... A general recall was sounded as at least half a dozen and may be more poured over the line with the images at the end of the photo selection showing by how much the fleet was over. OP and Finistere were in the mix as was Giddy Up and I've no doubt that some at the bottom end were over, but they were shadowed by those in front of us. Murmurs of a black flag were heard, but disregarded as the next start was orderly as they stretched out across the line and took off toward the windward mark. A couple of great shots of the twin rudder Surfer Rosa really hiking over toward the beach with the boat eventually rounding up as the person on the traveler was fighting to get it to drop down.
As we were packing up, the call came in from Alfresco who were retiring from the race after a coming together with MEII and a protest was heard being called through. The outcome was clearly in ME II's favor as MEII held her ranking in the racing. (Ooops! Still under protest apparently ?)
Some of the boats heading out from the windward mark, tried popping spinnakers up but only the brave kept them flying and the wise pulled them down given the example set by Calm as she tried, failed and doused the spinnaker shortly after.
As always, my thanks to FSC and the offshore race team for putting me on the water and welcome to Jayllee, Lucy's assistant in Sailing and Events who came out to see what happened on a start line.
Results can be found here. http://www.fsc.com.au/cproot/3061/3/Valmadre%20Results%2019%20July%202014.pdf
Enjoy the images
Many thanks to the viewers of this page. You have broken all records for the number of hits on this site. 22nd July 2014.
A nor easter of 10 to 12 knots tipped to swing into the North with a storm brewing for the afternoon ( but nothing to upset the racing for the morning. )
Good numbers had the racetrack well filled and the boats were crowding up on the start line on a course one with a large number pushing the limit at the corner of the start boat to the point that a barge buoy was set behind the start boat to remind the hopefuls that it would be a good idea to keep clear. Minutes before the start, a slight bump between two div one boats reminded us of the urgency that was felt and with div one and two lining up together it was going to be a frantic start line.
And so it proved to be...... A general recall was sounded as at least half a dozen and may be more poured over the line with the images at the end of the photo selection showing by how much the fleet was over. OP and Finistere were in the mix as was Giddy Up and I've no doubt that some at the bottom end were over, but they were shadowed by those in front of us. Murmurs of a black flag were heard, but disregarded as the next start was orderly as they stretched out across the line and took off toward the windward mark. A couple of great shots of the twin rudder Surfer Rosa really hiking over toward the beach with the boat eventually rounding up as the person on the traveler was fighting to get it to drop down.
As we were packing up, the call came in from Alfresco who were retiring from the race after a coming together with MEII and a protest was heard being called through. The outcome was clearly in ME II's favor as MEII held her ranking in the racing. (Ooops! Still under protest apparently ?)
Some of the boats heading out from the windward mark, tried popping spinnakers up but only the brave kept them flying and the wise pulled them down given the example set by Calm as she tried, failed and doused the spinnaker shortly after.
As always, my thanks to FSC and the offshore race team for putting me on the water and welcome to Jayllee, Lucy's assistant in Sailing and Events who came out to see what happened on a start line.
Results can be found here. http://www.fsc.com.au/cproot/3061/3/Valmadre%20Results%2019%20July%202014.pdf
Enjoy the images
Many thanks to the viewers of this page. You have broken all records for the number of hits on this site. 22nd July 2014.
The Ensign Race 5th July 2014
The weather was kind to us today and not a beanie was seen on the heads of those on the start boat. Forty two boats or so were on the start line and even Le Truck made it out there fully rigged. The usual RO Trevor Milne had taken the day off so Bernie Kaaks had taken over the role for FSC.
With a Northerly coming through at 10 to 15 knots it was positively benign and the call of coffee and muffins could be heard on the div three cruisers as they set off for the windward mark. The swell, though pronounced, was not a problem and allowed the bigger boats to get away scot free.
A course four was set and after the usual distribution of jelly snakes the event got under way with the start team operating flawlessly. A number of new boats were seen today with Rob Taylor's Glasshopper of FSC coming out for the day and Ian Clyne of RFBYC took his boat Joss out for a run. Great to see. The big new arrival of course was Michael Peels Secret Men's Business having come up from Bunbury and joining div two to sail well on debut in YAH. Calm continued on her way with no contenders (pity) and the DH fleet was reduced to one boat as unfortunatley 54's Matt Dickmann could only find one friend to go sailing with on such a nice day.
Enjoy the images.
With a Northerly coming through at 10 to 15 knots it was positively benign and the call of coffee and muffins could be heard on the div three cruisers as they set off for the windward mark. The swell, though pronounced, was not a problem and allowed the bigger boats to get away scot free.
A course four was set and after the usual distribution of jelly snakes the event got under way with the start team operating flawlessly. A number of new boats were seen today with Rob Taylor's Glasshopper of FSC coming out for the day and Ian Clyne of RFBYC took his boat Joss out for a run. Great to see. The big new arrival of course was Michael Peels Secret Men's Business having come up from Bunbury and joining div two to sail well on debut in YAH. Calm continued on her way with no contenders (pity) and the DH fleet was reduced to one boat as unfortunatley 54's Matt Dickmann could only find one friend to go sailing with on such a nice day.
Enjoy the images.
The Arlene Race 21st of June 2014
With bad weather ruling the roost, there was no option to Race officer Trevor Milton and the Rear Commodore Sail at FSC, Rob Thomas, but to cancel the day and try to reschedule the race into an already crowded calendar. Chatting to Sailing and Events manager Lucy Warhurst she was confident about the outcome, but it had to be put to the correct people before another race could be announced. Lucy did mention that a few boats were saddling up for a run and knowing that Endorfin was busting to try out their new sail, I thanked them kindly and headed off to South Mole where I caught not one, but seven boats out there testing their crews and sails. Well done to the following.
Mike Giles and Endorfin, Anthony Kirke and Enterprise, Trevor Taylor and Optimus Prime, Tony Carter and Just Cruisin' , Dom Papalucca and Alfresco, Peter Hickman and MEII and finally one of the smaller boats in the fleet; Topaz with Mike Campbell and Tobias Waldron.
Yes it was fairly rough and the wind was pushing a base of 24 and gusting 10 knots above that, but with reefs put into the main and a good choice of jib (a three or a four) it was a good day out.
Yes I was distracted... an osprey took off with a small bream that someone had put down momentarily and the resultant chase by a determined seagull gave me a couple of images.
I'll look forward to the Ensign Race.
Enjoy
Mike Giles and Endorfin, Anthony Kirke and Enterprise, Trevor Taylor and Optimus Prime, Tony Carter and Just Cruisin' , Dom Papalucca and Alfresco, Peter Hickman and MEII and finally one of the smaller boats in the fleet; Topaz with Mike Campbell and Tobias Waldron.
Yes it was fairly rough and the wind was pushing a base of 24 and gusting 10 knots above that, but with reefs put into the main and a good choice of jib (a three or a four) it was a good day out.
Yes I was distracted... an osprey took off with a small bream that someone had put down momentarily and the resultant chase by a determined seagull gave me a couple of images.
I'll look forward to the Ensign Race.
Enjoy
The Arlene Race 22nd of June 2013
The day was a cracker. A good nor-easter of about 15 knots and although the sea was lumpy with wind driven stuff, the startline was set with ease as the Race officer Trevor Milton set his course and the off shore start crew with the addition of one or two newbies (she whose laughter can be heard across the water) prepared for the start. Coms with the radio room was a little dodgy, but the girls had it under control and when it came time to spread the love ( jelly snakes ) the girls were on the rails as 40 odd boats fronted up. Mind you, the newbies were berlying up the water very well, but eventually got the hang of it and started to hit their targets fair and square. Four divisions lined up and were sent away and it was pleasing to see Sled out there even though Tony M was not on board. Knee Deep was lurking in the pens with a missing mast, but neither were G Lee or BBetty in sight. Div Two and Three were full of celebrities . Yeah Rob ! And the double handers are still missing Lithium as Graeme and Heather Monkhouse are still pottering around in Bali and beyond with Steel de Breeze and her owners.
Enjoy the pix.
Enjoy the pix.
The Second of the Valmadres 6th of July 2013
The Ensign Race and IRC State Championship Races 2 & 3
Once again the Fremantle Sailing Club has allowed me to join the fleet on the water for the second of the Valmadres. This time I have been asked to accompany the jurist, who observes the boats on the water and should an incident arise.....
An overcast day with an Easterly blowing, not the warmest of mornings and had I known I was going out in a rib, I would have put even more clothes on. About 5 to 10 knots was the call for the first race and there was a very good round up of boats, though the double handers were not in evidence. The jury boat was to work the boats very much like a match racing start, let them form up and hit the line and then follow, which meant that I was shooting up sun for the starts. Be your own judge..... some of the starts were great.... particularly the Div. One boats. Plenty of shouting between Endorfin and The Sled, while Endeavour and Knee Deep shot off the line like rockets.
Even more fun in Div. Two ..... lots more boats and the same length of start line. The smart ones hung back a bit, but gosh, the start line was packed. Div. Three weren't much kinder to each other. "Get out of the road or be part of it." Then up to the top mark and watch them go around a couple of times. Back down for a finish. The next race, the breeze picked up and the course was shifted about 10 degrees to the right. Big gusts down the middle worked for those who came across on port up the centre, but the starboard ley line was a wall of boats by the second leg of the second race and picking the holes amongst 30 to 50 foot boats on starboard is an expensive exercise to begin.
Enjoy the images.
An overcast day with an Easterly blowing, not the warmest of mornings and had I known I was going out in a rib, I would have put even more clothes on. About 5 to 10 knots was the call for the first race and there was a very good round up of boats, though the double handers were not in evidence. The jury boat was to work the boats very much like a match racing start, let them form up and hit the line and then follow, which meant that I was shooting up sun for the starts. Be your own judge..... some of the starts were great.... particularly the Div. One boats. Plenty of shouting between Endorfin and The Sled, while Endeavour and Knee Deep shot off the line like rockets.
Even more fun in Div. Two ..... lots more boats and the same length of start line. The smart ones hung back a bit, but gosh, the start line was packed. Div. Three weren't much kinder to each other. "Get out of the road or be part of it." Then up to the top mark and watch them go around a couple of times. Back down for a finish. The next race, the breeze picked up and the course was shifted about 10 degrees to the right. Big gusts down the middle worked for those who came across on port up the centre, but the starboard ley line was a wall of boats by the second leg of the second race and picking the holes amongst 30 to 50 foot boats on starboard is an expensive exercise to begin.
Enjoy the images.
The Third of the Valmadres The Mayflower 20th July 2013
It's cold. Damn it's cold.
Crikey, I've just seen blokes in tights. Mind you, I had a pair on under my jeans. I call them long johns and no one blinks an eyelid. Still, look out Robin Hood. Your days in Sherwood are not done yet.
As I was saying. It was cold and we were for once, all prepared for it. The coffee was hot, full winter kit was being worn and the winter sun was not really doing much. Over 40 boats again and surprise T. M. made it out. Rugged up to the hilt, but sailing. Same could be said for another of the tribe who was whizzing around the marks in a very fetching hat. Looked good.
The breeze was an Easterly and at about 10 knots when we started. 10 degrees of variation in the breeze meant that picking the shifts was important. particularly on the first leg up toward the windward buoy where we where.
By the time every one was around, the breeze had flicked to the North a little and built to a good 13 to 18 knots.
Many thanks to Fremantle S. C. for the ride onto the water.
Enjoy the pictures
Crikey, I've just seen blokes in tights. Mind you, I had a pair on under my jeans. I call them long johns and no one blinks an eyelid. Still, look out Robin Hood. Your days in Sherwood are not done yet.
As I was saying. It was cold and we were for once, all prepared for it. The coffee was hot, full winter kit was being worn and the winter sun was not really doing much. Over 40 boats again and surprise T. M. made it out. Rugged up to the hilt, but sailing. Same could be said for another of the tribe who was whizzing around the marks in a very fetching hat. Looked good.
The breeze was an Easterly and at about 10 knots when we started. 10 degrees of variation in the breeze meant that picking the shifts was important. particularly on the first leg up toward the windward buoy where we where.
By the time every one was around, the breeze had flicked to the North a little and built to a good 13 to 18 knots.
Many thanks to Fremantle S. C. for the ride onto the water.
Enjoy the pictures
The Voladora Race 5 and IRC Sat 3rd of August 2013
It's a light day out on the water and the breeze looks as though it is going to die away. But not yet.
The start line has about 9 knots and out of the East nor east. Every one lines up for the jelly snakes and we get a count of 43 boats out there. Terry and the start crew have the line set and the windward mark was put out to .85 of a nautical mile. Into sequence we go and 7 boats roar across the line in div one with Tony Mitchell out on the water again. Well done Tony, keep it up. Second div gets away with 15 boats and div. three had the rest. Nuzulu retired with an accident occurring on board at the windward mark. Fortunately there were doctors on the boat but she had to be carted off by the ambo's. I hope her knee is not going to be a major for her. The first two div's finished at South Mole, but div three had to have their race shortened by RO Terry as the breeze had swung into the west and started to drop. Tell you now for free... Hoodoo Man got first and fastest in Div two and deserved it, he came in amongst the Div one boats and looked good.
Enjoy the photos but the fun will be tomorrow's windward / leeward racing
The start line has about 9 knots and out of the East nor east. Every one lines up for the jelly snakes and we get a count of 43 boats out there. Terry and the start crew have the line set and the windward mark was put out to .85 of a nautical mile. Into sequence we go and 7 boats roar across the line in div one with Tony Mitchell out on the water again. Well done Tony, keep it up. Second div gets away with 15 boats and div. three had the rest. Nuzulu retired with an accident occurring on board at the windward mark. Fortunately there were doctors on the boat but she had to be carted off by the ambo's. I hope her knee is not going to be a major for her. The first two div's finished at South Mole, but div three had to have their race shortened by RO Terry as the breeze had swung into the west and started to drop. Tell you now for free... Hoodoo Man got first and fastest in Div two and deserved it, he came in amongst the Div one boats and looked good.
Enjoy the photos but the fun will be tomorrow's windward / leeward racing
The IRC Championships Races 6 and 7 Sunday the 4th of August
A perfect day on the water with temperatures in the teens and a Nor nor easter blowing at about 9 knots. Small swell but building. Terry and the race crew got things under way swiftly and I ( again ) was on the jury boat. The fleet was a little down on yesterday possibly for the lack of YAH results in these races and there was the fact that some people had already blown their leave pass for the weekend by sailing yesterday.
Div one was fast and furious with one boat getting underneath another and urged him over the line to the disgust of the windward boat. Hi ho, thats sailing. Great down wind gybing duels in the Div three fleets as the crews got their act together in these excellent sailing conditions.
We had a little more pressure 10 to 12 knots and swinging to the west a little by race two and it was just as much fun. On the start line, the same windward boat had to dip back to the line again thanks to a foot or so of prodder to far over the line, but by all accounts he is getting much better speed up wind now. Ergo he wasn't as far behind as they expected him to be. Other people nearly went trawling at the gates and one fellow got hold of the turning mark to windward and dragged it about 30 meters down wind while wrestling with it. No matter it was all in good fun.
The images are up and thanks very much for your interest.
Div one was fast and furious with one boat getting underneath another and urged him over the line to the disgust of the windward boat. Hi ho, thats sailing. Great down wind gybing duels in the Div three fleets as the crews got their act together in these excellent sailing conditions.
We had a little more pressure 10 to 12 knots and swinging to the west a little by race two and it was just as much fun. On the start line, the same windward boat had to dip back to the line again thanks to a foot or so of prodder to far over the line, but by all accounts he is getting much better speed up wind now. Ergo he wasn't as far behind as they expected him to be. Other people nearly went trawling at the gates and one fellow got hold of the turning mark to windward and dragged it about 30 meters down wind while wrestling with it. No matter it was all in good fun.
The images are up and thanks very much for your interest.