Sarcoma Cup 2011

by Tom Jenkins

Saturday was deemed by the so called 'weather professionals' to be a light affair, 8-12 knots with lots of overcast and cool temps throughout the day. Well, the meteorologists got it partly right, as it was 8-12 as we left the dock, and it was overcast and cool. The conditions improved as the clearing occurred, by race time we were right at the middle range of the #1 genoa on the expresses. The breeze would build through out the day and the clouds would continue to dissipate as well. Our fleet would eventually be able to fly our #3's and be fully powered up for some great sailing conditions in relatively flat water. Racing was on two different windward / leeward courses between several classes; J105, Express 27, Wabbit, Open 5.7, Olson 25, as well as a couple of PHRF classes on the Berkeley Circle. The Expresses would start right after the J105, who got off to multiple general recalls, before they got their first start up and running. The Expresses and 105's would contend with each other trying to stay clear of one another as the two fleets seemed to sail amongst one another throughout the day. The interaction between both the fleets would place a high priority on keeping our air clean and finding sailing lanes to move through the fleet, without loosing ground on our other Expresses. For the most part, the race to the right was the key to success for each race off the line. Beyond, the first beat being the key, the story was of little importance but to cover one's competition and to try to stay clear of the other fleets. I believe most everyone had a great day of sailing, as well as a few wild runs as several boats ended up on their sides on a couple of runs. Eleven Expresses sailed in what would be the final regatta of the year before the Nationals which take place in a couple of weeks being hosted by SFYC. As is usually the case, Berkeley Yacht Club held a great party after racing with live music, beer, munchies, and dinner. The on shore activities also included auctions for goods to raise funds for the Beat Sarcoma cause. A big thanks to all those who support the 'Beat Sarcoma' cause, Nathalie Criou and the Sarcoma Cup team did a wonderful job, working for a cause well worth supporting.

Tom Jenkins

Witchy Woman Express 27 #116