EVIE H wins first KSSA virtual regatta

The first-ever virtual KSSA regatta took place on Saturday (April 11). There was a good turnout for the first event with a total of 12 KSSA sailors (and the odd ex-KSSA sailor to mix things up). Racing was close and there had clearly been some practicing as all boats were around the first mark within a few hundred meters of each other.

The racing took place in a large variety of boats from Stars to offshore racers with the odd hydrofoiling catamaran thrown in. Although the most popular boat was the 49er, getting the kite up was certainly easier online with the press of a button, than in the real version. There were a number of people with gear failure as their internet or phone struggled to handle the pressure.

Race 7 (in the Americas Cup F50) had to be abandoned and re-sailed in the favourite 49er due to an unfortunate number of dodgy internet connections. The results reflect the closeness of the racing with the top three boats separated by just a single point. Evie H ending up in first place on count back over Joseph02 in second, with Trash Python completing the top three. The closeness of racing extended right down the fleet and valuable knowledge was learned as to the impact of shifts and lay lines.

A special mention must go to SailorGeorge who came out of retirement and showed what the effect of KSSA coaching can be, with a commanding performance, before being disqualified for breaching the age restrictions. There were unfortunately a number of signups who didn’t make it to the start line due to technical difficulties, however we look forward to them joining us at the next event, if anyone would like to contact me for help my email is markhthomas@outlook.com.

On that note there will be another regatta next Saturday at 1pm and all are welcome to attend and hone their sailing strategy with the classic ‘on the water communication’ (via Skype) of any KSSA regatta.

Mark