IOM Sailing 2022
IOM Winter Series 1, No 5. 11th January 2022
Sailors arrived despite the forecast, light rain and building works to the banks, showing the commitment and determination to race.
After a short delay deciding the best location to sail and arrival of the light wind, OOD Cliff set out an anti-clock wise course to best suit the conditions …well done Cliff.
Several stalwarts were absent today and were missed but we were glad to see Richard, and David Lyle make a guest appearance before going on an extended holiday.
The light wind remained constant throughout the day and several races were won and fought over by different sailors shaking up the usual order of winners with several boat designs.
Thankfully weed didn’t prevent racing and penalties were undertaken without complaint and with good humour.
Fourteen races were sailed with just one break for lunch and packing up and cleaning was shared by the ten competitors with several stopping on to share the last coffee of the day.
Barry
Next Week’s Officer Of the Day is David Wilkinson.
IOM Winter Series 1, No 4. 4th January 2022
It’s beyond doubt that the commitment and loyalty to IOM racing was proven today when several sailors despite the bitter forecast and driving through sleet and snow arrived as keen as mustard at the lake today.
Simon, Tim and Brian bravely set out a sizeable clockwise course in the strong NE wind off the point which employed a lovely beat and two long broad reaching legs. So, after a short delay waiting for stragglers, racing started about 10.45 and continued despite coffee and lunch breaks to 2.40 whereby twelve heats were enjoyed by the nine sailors.
No 1 rigs were reduced down to No 2 after lunch when the wind increased to approx 17 mph.
Several collisions and breakdowns occurred despite JT doing his best to get all boats back on the water. Skill to choose the best wind shifts played a big part in getting to the front. Simon seemed to bash into a few boats but he was not alone and penalties were undertaken without complaint and smiles. Roger for some reason tried to round a few buoys in the wrong direction. Poor Gordon suffered a poorer performance than usual because of the cold and strong wind.
Unfortunately, despite a fast start Barry’s boat was retired due to rigging failure, thanks go to the usual hardy few for mopping out the muddy club house and clearing the buoys away. The day was shared with the DF95 boats. who graciously sailed on another part of the lake with sadly a depleted fleet.
This was a wonderful start to the New Year. Next Week’s Officer Of the Day is Cliff.
IOM Winter Series 1, No 2. 14th December 2021
Ten skippers took part in this week’s racing.
JT was the OOD and used a modified version of the previous days DF95 course. This proved most suitable for the conditions, which were very fluky.
The wind varying from 1 or 2 mph up to 8 mph depending on where you were on the course.
Having set the course JT was also the master of it, commendably winning the majority of the races.
It was notable that David Lyle had one of his best days, winning three of the races.
Generally a well-run day with no major incidents or faux pas to mention, which was enjoyed by all in attendance.
J48 sailors please note that next week we will be having a sailing session after the lunch break.
(As previously the IOM racing will not have the normal (14) of rounds, but will finish at lunchtime – so a prompt start will allow as may rounds as poss) Cliff.
Next Week’s Officer Of the Day is Garry.
IOM Winter Series 1, No 1. 30th November 2021
Today was the first race of the winter IOM series.
Despite the forecast we were lucky to have been given one of the best race days for several months.
Simon, today’s OOD got to the lake early and with Brian and Garry’s help set out a perfect clockwise course all before ten o’clock, thank you, your commitment together with several helpers makes our sailing group enviable by other groups and clubs.
Eleven lucky sailors started on a perfect start line for a long windward beat then out to a wing mark, continuing on to a very long run to a gate by the point. Deciding which was the best turning buoy took skill and varied each lap, sometimes favouring the outer and sometimes the inner mark.
The wind increased from just below A rig to just above at times allowing several boats to do more turns than Darcy Bussell in her heyday.
Tim showed good speed at times, David Wilkinson was competitive but ran into clashes several times but the observers kept calling out infringements and penalty turns were undertaken.
Sixteen races were held only interrupted by coffee and lunch breaks. Cliff adjusted his rig in the later stages and then showed blistering speed.
Racing ceased when the light faded and everybody helped clear up and had their last coffee before leaving the lake with very wide smiles albeit slightly cold and tired. Barry.
Next Week’s Officer Of the Day is John Taylor.
IOM Autumn Series 1, No 10. 23rd November 2021
The wind gods appeared to be on holiday today, we arrived and waited for the slightest zephyr and racing sorry drifting eventually started over an hour late.
Roger set out a clockwise course and this was used for a couple of races but soon reversed in direction with the addition of an extra buoy when the 3 mph wind finally arrived. The wind was so fickle that the windward spreader buoys we’re adapted to become the start line for the last few races.
Despite the cool windless start to the day, the ten sailors enjoyed the sunny beautiful day, poor Roger’s winch failed so he kindly ran all the races avoiding a couple of sailors coming off as observers from the second race onwards.
It was good to see Edward at the front a few times and Tim too in front in several races. Several new faces arrived about two o’clock with J class boats and joined five of the IOM sailors with their J class boats and enjoyed six heats of informal racing with the best wind of the day over a very long course using both sides of the lake in a U shaped course. A couple of new boats were maidened today and successfully joined in the racing, making a lovely sight with seven boats.
Racing ceased when the light failed and willing helpers put buoys away and cleared up and left the club with wide smiles on their faces having enjoyed the day.
Barry.
This was the last Race of the Autumn Series, Congratulations to John on winning the series and Barry as runner up.
The Winter Series will start next week on 30th November Next Week’s Officer Of the Day is Simon.
IOM Autumn Series 1, No 9. 16th November 2021
Despite the light wind, a fantastic day’s racing was enjoyed by ten sailors over sixteen races in dry sunny conditions.
Luckily John without a minder brought his boat and transmitter this week, Simon after a quick check had rigged his boat correctly, Paul turned up to watch and have a quick race after delivering spare masts … thank you Paul. Brian OOD with the help of, in particular Simon and Tim set out the anti-clock wise small course making best use of the available wind which was extended to use the larger lake over the last four races. Surprisingly after racing over a thousand metres in the last races, four different boat designs finished within two seconds showing that there is not much difference in boat performance. I’m so glad to report that rule observance and penalties were perfect, the best clean racing ever.
It was reassuring to see Edward and Gordon racing again today, David Wilkinson was missed. Garry, put in some fast racing but generally the fast sailors got to the front.
Racing finished when the light faded and a willing group packed up, but most stopped on for a social chin wag not wanting to leave the warm friendly group after a wonderful day’s sailing.
Barry Next Week’s Officer Of the Day is Roger.
IOM Autumn Series 1, No 7. 2nd November 2021
We started with a meeting in the clubhouse to discuss rule observance, particularly related to doing penalties following ‘indiscretions’ on the water. It was decided that in future we will have at least one observer off for every race, his/their duty will be to call any infringements as they happen. The numbers of the boats involved will be called and it is up to the skippers to decide who was at fault, then promptly carry out the penalty. Failure to come to an agreement, both will have to do a penalty, meanwhile the observer will continue to call the relevant boat numbers until the required penalty is served. Should the penalty not be served the guilty party(s) will not have a score recorded for that race.
Barry, our OOD for the day then called everyone to a bankside briefing to explain the days course. Despite the decision to have an observer off for each race it was not required on this occasion. The reason? Simon had come along with the incorrect transmitter for his K2 and generously offered to be Barry’s AOD/observer for the duration of the competition.
They worked as a very good team, which resulted in a well disciplined day, everybody was on their best behaviour and there were no serious incidents to report.
Unfortunately, Gordon had to retire part way through the day due to his ongoing eye problem. Hopefully his problem will improve after his next hospital visit. Always a front runner in the past, his frustrations must be difficult to bear.
Although the winds were extremely light, the efficiency of the IOM yachts enabled them to keep moving at a reasonable rate and so a good day’s racing was enjoyed.
All races were of one lap, except the last race which was two laps. The course was changed on several occasions to account for changes in wind (zephyr?) direction.
This was efficiently done on each occasion by Simon. He needs to be careful or he’ll end up with a full time job! JT won the day, with Roger a close runner up, Brian took third place on the podium, congrats to them for their consistent sailing throughout the comp.
Paul Barton kindly came for the day to host a prospective member who has an interest in sailing IOM’s. Paul spent the day explaining every aspect of radio sailing from the equipment, set up, sailing and racing techniques and the basic rules to Chris. Who is an absolute novice and learning from scratch.
He was delighted with his reception and that he had been able to sail Paul’s boat (off the race course!) for most of his visit, (under Paul’s guidance and tuition), thanks Paul!
Next Week’s Officer Of the Day is David Lyle.
IOM Autumn Series 1, No 6. 26th October 2021
Having witnessed an IOM National event last weekend where penalties were undertaken without question, it was very disappointing to experience the lack by several of our sailors today to do theirs. Generally, it was the same few, some who went on unfairly to win some races.
Please undertake your penalties as soon as possible.
I’m proposing that we hold a bank side vote next week so that OOD or observer will not record the offenders result for that race who CLEARLY does not do a penalty turn.
So, despite the above, 15 races were undertaken by 11 sailors in the medium strength wind over an oblong-ish course over two laps, it was close racing.
The windward and spreader marks were sometimes tricky to navigate due to the fluctuating swinging wind.
Several sailors had boat problems but the lead changed many times in the gusty and lull conditions.
It was a good day’s sailing, racing in dry weather and enjoyed by all present with many happy volunteers setting out and retrieving buoys and rescue boat etc showing a very good team spirit.
Barry Next Week’s Officer Of the Day is Barry.
IOM Autumn Series 1, No 5. 19th October 2021
Weather forecast awful …sailing wonderful.
Luckily the awful gale force SSW winds with heavy rain predicted never materialised and the eight fortunate sailors using B rigs enjoyed fantastic sailing, sometimes over powered sometimes underpowered but with the wind shifts this kept all sailors on their toes choosing the best, fastest courses to get to the front.
Cliff bravely tried the A rig before formal racing to confirm B rigs were the best sails for the blustery conditions.
Cliff acted as OOD and from start to end kept all sailors even belligerent ones in order on the anti-clockwise triangular course well done Cliff and helpers who set out and retrieved buoys.
Rule observance and penalties were good but could be improved by some racers, please to enable close safe racing either renew rule knowledge or investigate rules … please ask if in doubt … we’re all learning no shame, but please undertake penalties always to create fair racing.
Thanks to all for clearing up after a fantastic day’s racing.
Next Week’s Officer Of the Day is David Wilkinson.
Barry
An anti-clockwise ‘port’ course was initially set out in readiness for the days racing. However by the time we got underway the wind had swung west, dictating a reversal of direction.
The same course was then sailed clockwise for the morning. After the lunchbreak the wind returned to its original direction. The course was then sailed in the originally planned (and favoured) port direction for the remainder of the day. With this return to a more northerly direction, the windspeed increased, to the top of the ‘A’ suit at times – and got considerably colder! However, a full day of close racing was enjoyed by all, with various lead changes and winners. Unfortunately, there were a couple of breakdowns, JT lost a side stay and Tim’s rudder servo died. In true club spirit John finished the day sailing Garry’s MX18 and Tim with Cliff’s Malteser. Much time was spent admiring Simon’s new K2, which he maidened today in earnest competition. A beautifully engineered and finished boat, which Simon sailed very well on its first outing.
Undoubtedly, he will be a regular event winner when he gets used to it, having won a quarter of the races today and today’s event winner. All sixteen races were of two laps duration and were completed by 3.00pm
Thanks to Tim for his work as the OOD today, and those who set and cleared away the course.
Next Week’s Officer Of the Day is Cliff.
Cliff
IOM Summer Series 2, No 10. 7th September 2021
The day started with an Easterly wind, resulting in a clockwise course, but when the SE forecasted arrived, the course was switched to anti-clockwise. Wind speed ranging from 4 to 9 mph, ensured close tactical racing over the course set by OOD Brian and several helpers who located the racing buoys. The number of laps varied from only one when the wind was light but increased to two when the wind picked up, surprisingly it was sunny and almost too hot, Brian made adjustments to the course when the wind swung and allowed refreshments to be regularly taken by the twelve sailors. Two sailors were taken off each race to monitor rule observance.
We had a guest appearance from Woodspring, hot shot Nick Martin who was test sailing and tuning his repaired Britpop before a major event next week.
David Wilkinson lost some of his recent boat speed for some reason and was going back to the drawing board on tuning and no doubt will have found this by next week. Simon was showing off his new purchase, a used Picanto, Tim was racing his newly acquired Widget and Dave Durston sailed a borrowed boat, Shiraz, with his usual broad grin. (Thank you Rodney)
Several helpers stopped on and cleared up making light work of the chores and others finished of their drinks and chatted before leaving the lake after a lovely day’s sailing.
Today was the last race of Summers Series 2, congratulations to John for a very closely won competition.
Next Week’s Officer Of the Day is Roger.
Barry
IOM Summer Series 2, No 7. 17th August 2021
Weather forecast was spot on to the wind experienced at the lake today at about 12 mph, after a very short debate plus several sailors arrived already rigged with A suits this was the size of sail used by the Ten sailors.
David Wilkinson acted as OOD ably assisted by Cliff and Simon setting out the course and using the electric power boat and putting buoys away with Tim and Brian helping …thank you after a long tiring day.
David set out a clockwise course over two laps with a good windward leg, short reach and long run. The leeward gate was tricky to judge to secure a fast smooth rounding allowing overshoots and place changing to take place before starting the long beat.
We were lucky to have Ivor advising on rules before and during the racing …thank you Ivor, even the most experienced sailors coming away with a better understanding of the new rules as well as the old ones.
Brian seemed to get things right and sailed very well. Tim sailed Roger’s boat in races 6 to 13 and he shone in several races, hopefully this will persuade him to invest in another boat.
Good to see David reunited with his widget and going well, winning several races despite getting entangled with other boats but he’s now an expert in penalty circles losing very little.
After racing, several sailors carried on swapping boats and ideas over the same course. Simon came to life and showed good speed winning most races with several boats.
Luckily after packing up, Barry’s rudder fell off onto the concrete.
The venue proved superb again with hardly any weed, it was good to see Brian doing well prior to his departure to the IOM Nationals which may give him some confidence so we wish you good luck.
There are some vacancies on the training course for our electric Safety Boat on Monday 23rd August, anyone interested, please contact Garry Stevenson garry1615@hotmail.co.uk
Next Weeks Officer Of the Day is Barry.
Barry
IOM Summer Series 2, No 4. 20th July 2021
Little or no wind was forecast today, which was correct first thing so racing was delayed but luckily the forecast proved incorrect allowing good racing with 4 to 15 mph wind starting at 11.30 for the rest of the day.
Several tea breaks were called so hydration and shade were used to cool the sailors down from the blazing sun and temperatures up to 30 C.
ODD, Roger under the guidance of Cliff and Barry set out four buoys in a rectangular pattern allowing good beats to be chosen in the slightly swinging wind over two laps. Weed played a part in the results sadly, but generally the cream came to the top.
Special mention must be made of poor Steve, who travels about 90 miles each way to join us, but sadly his winch failed before racing, but he stepped up and ran the races all day with a smile on his face …thank you Steve.
Winch failures seem to be popular at the moment, both Cliff and Roger being called upon to put things right in various boats.
It was a good day’s racing in what become ideal conditions incorporating a two start lines to cater for the wind shifts and challenging course. Rule and penalty observance is improving every week thankfully.
Simon and Roger had a couple of flyers, the rest of the spoils were shared out throughout the day.
The day ended when three J Class 48” boats took to the water for impromptu racing before packing up and leaving the club at 4 pm.
Next week’s ODD is John.
Barry
IOM Summer Series 2, No 3. 13th July 2021
Simon did a wonderful job as OOD today, however I feel we must issue him with a warning if he wants to sail again, because he arrived early, set out wonderful course, scored and kept things moving at a great pace and then cleared up …so he may be voted to do this again and again ….however his example was an eye opener for future OODs ….well done Simon.
The course consisted of triangle and then sausage over two laps with accurate windward legs, but this varied in several races using either just a triangular or sausage only course over one lap when the wind dropped from the dominant 12 mph down to 6 mph. Ten sailors enjoyed the day, David Wilkinson using a twenty year old boat showed great speed and skill, Tim and Edward did better today, it was good to see Gordon win a race using Simon as a spotter for the long range buoy racing.
Brian and Roger sailed well all day and Barry had his usual intimate contact with most marks. Weed whilst present did not dominate the sailing or affect race results, poor David Lyle had winch failure and withdrew half way through but stopped on to enjoy the banter and watch the racing.
Sadly, three stalwarts Cliff, JT and Garry were missing due to other commitments.
Racing continued to 3.30 with fifteen races completed in the warm weather.
Next Weeks OOD Roger.
Don’t forget we have the Midland District MYA visiting us on Friday. They will be with us around 10.30am and are looking to help us and see how we fit into the wider Midland District.
Barry
IOM Summer Series 2, No 2. 6th July 2021
With a brisk westerly wind, from the start of racing, it was clear that a B rig was the order for the day. A square course was set by Brian as OOD with a diagonal leg from upwind to the leeward mark. The objective was to create a windward mark on an anticlockwise course to minimise the potential for fouls. After 7 skippers got used to the course closer racing ensued.
David Wilkinson showed his skills in getting to the front frequently and then his hopes dashed as the choppy waves and fickle wind shifts took their toll. All skippers suffered a similar fate with the lead changing regularly throughout each race.
One incident at the windward mark saw 4 boats coming together after a sudden squall caused a melee just as they were rounding it and two boats got hooked up (Simon’s and Brian’s) but unfortunately Simon’s boat suffered a mainsheet failure. Despite a collective repair to re-thread the mainsheet after working out how to route the cord and get it below deck, the following race saw Simon retire as the closed loop
IOM Summer Series 2, No 2. 6th July 2021
With a brisk westerly wind, from the start of racing, it was clear that a B rig was the order for the day. A square course was set by Brian as OOD with a diagonal leg from upwind to the leeward mark. The objective was to create a windward mark on an anticlockwise course to minimise the potential for fouls. After 7 skippers got used to the course closer racing ensued.
David Wilkinson showed his skills in getting to the front frequently and then his hopes dashed as the choppy waves and fickle wind shifts took their toll. All skippers suffered a similar fate with the lead changing regularly throughout each race.
One incident at the windward mark saw 4 boats coming together after a sudden squall caused a melee just as they were rounding it and two boats got hooked up (Simon’s and Brian’s) but unfortunately Simon’s boat suffered a mainsheet failure. Despite a collective repair to re-thread the mainsheet after working out how to route the cord and get it below deck, the following race saw Simon retire as the closed loop below deck came adrift from the drum. Good luck to Roger in effecting a permanent repair.
One race had to be abandoned as heavy rain and a force 7 squall rattled across the lake from WNW. So, despite the challenging conditions most of the seven skippers enjoyed the day and hopefully all boats will be back on the water next week.
Brian
below deck came adrift from the drum. Good luck to Roger in effecting a permanent repair.
One race had to be abandoned as heavy rain and a force 7 squall rattled across the lake from WNW. So, despite the challenging conditions most of the seven skippers enjoyed the day and hopefully all boats will be back on the water next week.
Brian
IOM Summer Series 2, No 1. 29 June 2021
What a sterling day, both for football and most importantly, the IOM sailing at Whitefriars today.
David Lyle, today’s OOD, set a long triangular clockwise course with a long beat, short spreader leg and long downwind run before the long beat to the finish, either over one or two laps dependant on wind strength.
The course was set out by Roger and recovered by Jim, which allowed taking advantage of the 10 to 17 mph wind, which often shifted by many degrees. By careful and skilful tactics, significant position changes could be achieved, weed interference was also experienced by some at times.
Praise to the new IOM sailors who have made vast improvements and now beginning to upset the lead positions.
Races 1 to 11 had an observer to help with rule adherence.
David Wilkinson was on very good form, showing how skipper skill is the most important factor to winning.
Most members stopped on to help clear up and Brian has been nominated to be next week’s OOD.
Good to see Edward Witts and Tim Ballinger joining in the fun.
From all at Whitefriars RC sailing we wish Brian Tanner a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing you back on the water soon, take care Brian.
Barry
IOM Summer Series 1, No 10. 22nd June 2021
A good day’s racing for the final round of Summer Series 1.
Eighteen races in a top of the ‘A’ rig breeze.
A few skippers started the day on ‘B’ rigs but changed up to ‘A’ after two rounds, as despite the strength of the wind they were obviously at a disadvantage.
This tightened the fleet up and the racing was generally close for the rest of the day.
We had an excellent course that suited the conditions, set by Barry, our OOD for the day, assisted at times by Brian. Many thanks to Jim for positioning the buoys.
We did not have an observer off for each race this week, as Barry very generously gave up a day’s sailing to efficiently manage today’s event.
Under his watchful eye, experience and no nonsense approach the day went off in a very orderly manner with everyone on their best behaviour. Thanks Barry!
The standard of sailing is improving week by week, this not only reduces the occasional frustration factor but improves everyone’s enjoyment of their days sailing.
At a bankside meeting of those who stayed behind after today’s racing had finished. Now that the current series is finished. It was decided that we should define the duration of the day’s activities. Henceforth, the days racing will terminate after 16 races or at 3.30pm – whichever is the soonest. Of course, social sailing can continue after the racing program is completed for those who wish to stay on.
Congratulation to John on winning the first of our IOM Summer Series.
David Lyle was nominated to be next week’s OOD
Cliff
IOM Summer Series 1, No 9. 15th June 2021
Brilliant (even too hot) sunny weather with light breeze blessed us all day and enjoyed by eleven lucky sailors.
We were also joined today by Rupert Preston, an experienced IOM sailor from the Woodspring Club.
David Wilkinson as OOD kept things moving smoothly and efficiently which allowed thirteen races to be run. Cliff, Roger and David set out a triangular course, sometimes clockwise, sometimes anti clockwise to facilitate a windward first leg in the shifty wind. In the last few races, due to a wind shift, the course stretched to include one of the large fixed yellow marks in the lake.
Ivor, a sailing rules expert kindly sat in on the racing to adjudicate and generally advised and guided us on rule compliance, which was very informative and he even offered to return for a further session … thank you Ivor.
The weed has started to interfere with the racing, with most skippers being affected to some degree.
Barry and JT now have their J class Nottingham 48 yachts sailing, which should be affected less by floating weed.
Sailors left the club around four o’clock, many with red faces, after being in the sun all day. Barry has been nominated as OOD for next week.
Barry
IOM Summer Series 1, No 8. 8th June 2021
Beautiful sunny weather with light wind blessed us all day which was an added bonus to encourage several of our new IOM band of sailors, some complete novices but I’ve got to say brilliant, very quick learners who will through their determination and skill will be up
amongst the established front runners, well done and a big welcome to our group. The wind was light and reasonably constant big thanks to Roger and Cliff who set out an oval clockwise course which was ideal in the mainly force one to two wind speed. Simon is developing into a champion rower and very useful for buoy placement. Due to wind shadows several lead changes occurred very close to the finish line. Rule observance and penalties was again improved by using an observer each race. To help improve rule knowledge an expert on rules will be present next week to comment on each race and to advise us, hopefully you will see this as educational and not critical and will be completely impartial to us, it will give us all an opportunity to clear up misunderstandings ask questions and facilitate better, safer and fair sailing.
Thirteen sailors enjoyed the day and 14 races were run in the bright sunshine, a long windward and running leg allowed options for best and fastest course to be sailed mainly over one lap but extended to two laps when the wind increased.
Cliff was an excellent ODD and kept things moving with slick instructions to who was adjudicator and scorer for each race.
Barry’s sandwiches were stolen by a very crafty crow, only informed of the culprit when we had a late visit by Brian Tanner and his wife who enjoyed lunch with us, he confirmed he had his stolen before, so watch out we’ve a thief amongst us .
Most sailors left the club about 3 pm but several stopped on to enjoy the late afternoon breeze, all with a brown faces and big smiles.
David Wilkinson will be next week’s OOD
IOM Summer Series 1, No 7. 1st June 2021
A perfect top suit breeze, blue skies and 26 degrees, ideal conditions for our latest summer series 1 No 7. Simon Evans was today’s OOD and he set out an excellent course. (With the able and efficient assistance from Cliff !!) A recent newcomer to model sailing, it was Simon’s first racing duty as OOD. However, he has a wealth of experience from his full size racing and brought these skills to run a most enjoyable competition.
Although common at other clubs it was the first time that we used ‘a man off to observe’ in each race.
His duties are to watch the start line, record the finishing order and call any contacts or contraventions during the race, then to ensure any resultant penalties are served. This system works well and will be used again in the future. Racing during the day was generally very close, inevitable as skills are developing.
Also rule adherence is improving, no doubt in part due to the watchful eyes of the observers!
There was a spread of winners and front runners during the day.
Brian had a good run of four consecutive wins during the afternoon, Roger had problems with the buoys getting in his way. David L was doing particularly well sailing his yellow yacht in one race and was three parts of the way around the course when he realised the yellow yacht he was ‘sailing’ was in fact Garry’s, His boat had sailed off unseen across the lake behind us – causing much mirth when the realisation hit!
In David’s defence his number is 126 and Garry’s is 12 – so this added to the confusion.
He has subsequently been made an honorary member of the Specsavers Club.
Unfortunately a couple of our regulars, Barry and JT were unable to join us today.
Normally top runners and banter meisters – they were missed, shame because it was a cracking day… (Especially, for my hull). In conclusion it was a good, full day of sailing with eighteen races in total. All sailed in a good humoured and sporting manner.
Cliff
IOM Summer Series 1, No 6. 25th May 2021
Despite the forecast 7 lucky sailors enjoyed a full day’s racing in sunny and dry conditions.
The wind speed ranging from 12 to 28 mph dictated that B rigs were selected and ideal for the conditions for over ninety percent of the time sailing.
Due to the high winds Brian and John set a course that minimised the number of buoys that Roger needed to place using the dinghy. A fixed full-size buoy used for the windward mark, only required a downwind and start buoy to be placed.
Several wind shifts up the long windward leg allowed changes in the lead around the windward buoy, the leaders sometimes overtaken on the long return downwind leg facilitating a great battle from the downwind buoy up the short beat to the finish allowing for clever tack choices to steal first position right on the line many times.
Winners and different boats varied over the full days racing, 16 races were held due to the fantastic conditions, good starts and clever tactics during the races and concentration paid off every time, it was good to see some tailenders up the front showing the depth of progress being made to form a competitive fleet getting harder to predict winners every week.
Rule observance was far better today and is improving every week, it’s been suggested that a Mars bar may be awarded to the best sailor and shame fudge bar to the worst rule observer if rule abuse does not improve further ……?
In summary it was a fantastic day’s sailing and due to the high number of races all sailors left the club quite tired but with very broad smiles.
Simon kindly used the dinghy to retrieve the buoys and everybody mucked in clearing everything away at the end of the day, well done guys.
Simon has been nominated to be next week’s OOD.
Barry
IOM Summer Series 1, No 5. 18th May 2021
Today’s racing was most enjoyable with a light WSW breeze that produced some interesting conditions and with 13 races of 2 laps ensured the boats were strung out around the course. The course was set by Steve and laid by Richard with a long windward mark in an attempt to separate the leaders, then a reaching mark for a bit of speed and then to the downwind mark and back to the start/finish. For the first 3 races it seemed to work but soon became apparent that the windward mark was too far away for most of us to see if we were around or not. The mark was brought closer to the bank and the wind became fluky with shifting conditions a short distance away which produced a bit of cursing; some boats getting a lift and overtaking the leaders.
Only two of the races produced a general recall much to the chagrin of the boats that got to the windward mark first! The second recall occurred after half the fleet were over the line at the gun because of the sudden increased wind just before the start.
As the day progressed, between the showers, there were some windy conditions and for the most part there was a better adherence to penalty taking after contact with boats or marks – well done guys, keep it up. Many thanks to Julian and Tim for acting OOD and controlling the start and recording the finish line; not an easy job with 3 or 4 boats coming over the line almost at the same time.
Brian
IOM Summer Series 1, No 4. 11th May 2021
IOM racing at its pinnacle today, warm southerly wind ranging from 2 to 30 mph with unpredictable gusts, but luckily, generally from the same point of the compass.
Racing started after Brian and Roger kindly set the course, ‘A’ suits of sails, were generally the right sails until we had a lunch break and all except Cliff changed to ‘B’ rigs because of the strengthening wind.
Cliff’s boat did several nose dives and looked like a ballerina at times on points turning sharply.
The anti-clock wise course had a challenging long beat and two long downwind legs which allowed many place changes.
When Gordon joined Barry observing for rule infringements, the number of penalty turns trebled straight away, the culprits being named and shamed. Unless penalties are taken, we will have to introduce observers until we improve our rule knowledge.
The ten sailors had lively banter and different interpretation of the rules were aired, I think a brief light hearted bank briefing may help us to all sail to the same rules before the days racing begins.
Barry
IOM Summer Series 1, No 3. 27th April 2021
Twelve sailors enjoyed warm conditions and good sailing, despite little wind today, including a very quick guest Hugh with his home built, Vecktor. JT, today’s OOD set a triangular clockwise course over one or two laps depending on the speed boats could drift around the course.
Scoring and finishing first in the fickle conditions saw many different winners and new faces at the front at times.
Rule observance should be improved together with undertaking penalty turns, please let the rise in ability now being enjoyed, be also joined by better rule and penalty undertaking.
Please note, that unless we do this voluntary, then an observer system is being considered to help tighten up fair sailing and reduce boat contact and potential costly repairs ….. We’re all guilty at times, some more so than others.
It was a good day at the lake allowing good and bad luck with wind shifts and different gusts over the lake, bank banter was I’m glad to say, was above par.
Next week’s OOD will be Brian, nominated by JT.
Barry
IOM Summer Series 1 No 2 20th April 2021
Eleven plus sailors turned up to very light, frustrating and some fickle wind
drifting, making the course setting almost impossible. Dave and his friend Jim
stepped up to the OOD duty and got the course out ready to race at 11 o’clock,
well done to you both.
The race course alternated between clockwise and anti-clockwise to achieve a
windward start each time.
There was some confusion at times but overall, it allowed for sensible starts.
Bunching on buoys and buoy hitting was quite common throughout the fleet
and noted that not everyone did their penalties.
New and old faces won races and the bankside banter was up to its usual high
standard, after two tea breaks many happy sunburnt faces departed about four
o’clock.
A couple of new IOM boats appeared on the bank, one a lovely woodie but
unfortunately, we didn’t get to see them sail.
Dave nominated John for next week’s OOD duty, this is a new scheme where
the current acting OOD nominates the next week’s, thereby giving everyone an
opportunity to experience the task.
Barry
IOM Summer Series 1 No 1 13th April 2021
Thirteen members attended for the first round of the 2021 summer league series of races. Fortunately, a beautiful, mild spring day welcomed everyone. Unfortunately, there was nil – or very little wind!!
However, the thermal breezes soon appeared which enabled racing to go ahead after a delayed start of 45 minutes.
Of course with this type of variable breezes, sailing becomes very taxing, with the direction and speed constantly changing.
This kept todays OOD, Barry, very busy with, numerous course changes and alternating start directions. Being as experienced as he is, Barry did a sterling job and made the day a success considering the difficult circumstances.
The racing was completed, then all cleared up by approx. 3.30pm, thanks to the volunteers acting as a team, this was done in record time.
Cliff
Radio Control Sailing 6th April 2021
Eight hardy IOM sailors braved the 12 to 20 mph bitter Northerly winds today.
The usual gang of Roger, John, Garry and Barry set out and cleared up the race course again. Can other regular racers step up and help with this task in the future please, racing cannot take place unless this duty is undertaken. If your’ not familiar with what to do please ask for help we will all be happy to oblige.
The weather was a medley involving sun, snow, strong gusts, causing large waves on the lake.
A simple triangular clockwise course was set out with a very long beat and two large reaching and running legs over two laps.
Over the ten races completed, Barry went well, particularly in the heavier wind, both Roger and Brian being polite, introduced their boats to the buoys several times.
Simon had glimpses of speed not always on the course sadly, but he is fast when he gets it right.
Unfortunately, John had a coming together, resulting in some damage to his boat, Brian seemed to have winch issues but this did not slow him down.
David had good starts, as usual and got his boat to the front several times, Rogers Boat seemed to revel on the reaches.
Garry’s Boat was shared with Paul and John for a couple of races and went well.
Due to the cold several sailors left before the end, but everybody seemed to enjoy the days sailing.
Please note formal IOM racing starts Tuesday 13th so charge your batteries and come along.
Barry
Today’s Course 2 laps
Radio Control Sailing March 2021
Inaugural sailing sessions, more of a general report than description of racing to help sailors understand what’s been going on.
Monday 29 March saw the first sailing day for 2021 in blustery conditions enjoyed by about twelve 65 and 95 boats. Several new faces appeared to join the informal racing, generally several breakdowns occurred after the winter layup but there was an abundance of help, advice and banter accompanying the sailing.
We’ve managed at long last Brian, Paul, Garry, Roger and Barry to sort out Simons 95 winch problems … it turned out to be a corrupt Model entry on his flysky transmitter… mainly spotted by Roger after changing winch, receiver etc, a new model was created in the transmitter and problem was resolved
Brian Tanner is the new DF65 / 95 class captain and will, with others, help any new comers.
Most important is that Brian was awarded the club trophy on Monday for all his generosity and hard work over the last year .
We are personally aware of all the good work being undertaken by Garry in the background, he’s very modest about his achievements for us within the club building a very strong positive bond thank you Garry.
Tuesday 30 March saw the first gathering of IOMs enjoying summer weather with several new boats appearing and showing very good speed, in particular Richard, with his boat Panacea was very fast and he was mixing it at the front, Paul is building one as well so watch out regulars.
Today’s gathering saw nine boats race, in the light wind which gradually increased in strength allowing an increase from one lap to two laps. New faces won races, Simon and Richard, Barry and John wanted the same water for most the day resulting in tangles and enforced disqualification of both. The standard of racing is now a bit tighter allowing new faces and boats opportunity to show what can be done with practice and commitment.
Rule observance was lax and due to the slight informal nature was overlooked, but hopefully this will be better next time and I ask that rules be observed to ensure a better standard and safer racing avoiding damage and upsets please. The course was challenging with buoys difficult to see which did not help matters. May we remind you that Roger is IOM class captain and always willing to help.
Note for your diary:
We normally run a number of championships throughout the year. However in 2020/2021 season all activities were cancelled due to Covid. We have great pleasure to announce that the IOM championship for Spring/Summer 2021 will start on Tuesday 13 April and the DF65/DF95 championship for Spring/Summer 2021 will start on Monday 19 April. Further details to follow shortly.
Roger Prout Class Captain IOM
Brain Tanner Class Captain DF65/DF95
Barry Truman RC Steering Group
Today’s Course 1 / 2 laps depending on wind strength
