This year’s Clocks Back race introduces a new challenge particularly suited to cruiser racers: what is the best time for a passage? You can start at any time within a certain time window – so when might the tide and weather give the fastest passage, and what route to pursue.
Then we all meet up at the Folly Inn for a good sociable time together.
See the Race Instructions and book via the link to the programme page.
Month: October 2019
CCRC Visit to RNLI College
CCRC’s visit to the RNLI college yesterday was a great success with all enjoying it tremendously, especially the rescue at the end.
Our guide showed us the extent of the RNLI site now which includes not just the college but also the new building where the all weather lifeboats are built. We saw the training pool which can simulate waves, rain and high winds for training with their ribs.
Finally we entered the simulator where our Commodore acted as lifeboat coxswain and Patrick Marshall as helm while other members acted as crew. We headed out from Dover to where a container ship had collided with a bulk carrier which was now on fire. We joined a rescue operation with a coast-guard cutter and helicopter to rescue those in the water. This was made more difficult as a squall came through but we recovered four survivors before heading back into Dover. Finally we had an excellent lunch overlooking Poole harbour.
We had a good time, learned much more about the RNLI and now appreciate their efforts even more.
Portsmouth and Gosport
Despite a forecast of high winds for the weekend there was a good turnout on the starting line for both CCRC fleets on Saturday. The dependable forecast allowed a long course including three beats, three runs and a fetch with many flying spinnakers or cruising chutes for the downwind legs. Even the forecasted rain held off until the evening apart from a few spots. A terrific day for an exciting race.
The evening saw us cross to Portsmouth from Gosport and head for the historic Royal Naval Club and Royal Albert Yacht Club for drinks and dinner where the race results were announced.
Sunday, with stronger winds forecast and some needing to get home early, saw only a few boats on the start line. A simple course of a beat and then long downwind run to Chi saw the fleet of four split with half using downwind sails and half not; half going between the forts and half going through the Dolphin passage. All participants were back well before lunch.
Autumn Race
Saturday’s race saw a beautiful autumn day with a light breeze. After the rolling start and windward leg we headed out downwind and across the shipping lane towards the Isle of Wight for further race legs outside Bembridge. Unfortunately the wind got lighter meaning the race was shortened but still some were unable to finish against the strong tide.
Then it was over to Bembridge Sailing Club for an excellent dinner.
