Practice Race

April 2 Practice Race

Another gorgeous day in paradise! It was hot and sunny, with a great 11-15 knot breeze for the practice race today. Though no one will admit to taking the practice race seriously, 505 sailing being what it is most of the competitors were there for the start, and raced hard around the 505 Worlds course (old Olympic with two more reaches and a a beat on the end).

Australian boats domininated the fleet and the results, with AUS 8606, N. Rydge and G. Lange holding a narrow lead at the first mark, and getting a quick spinnaker hoist to pull away from a pack close behind. They pulled away for most of the race, but the fleet closed on last beat, and they won narrowly over ?????.

Many top ranked 505 sailers either did not finish the race, choosing to practice instead. Many believe it is bad luck to win the practice race, and drop out during the race, or do not cross the finish line.

Tommorrow is the first race of the Australian Nationals. Over 110 boats are expected for the start! Several competitors for the worlds are not here yet, with a Hong Kong entry still expected, and two USA competitors still waiting for their boats to arrive.