The fourth ASCC Spring race day turned out to be rather fine. After a cloudy start and some strongish gusts we decided to start with a full headsail and one reef in th main. We crossed close to the start time again. Still not close enough but not too bad. The reach to Shark island was uneventful and alone again. Mercedes and Alcyone were getting set up to start at 12.30.
Once we rounded the island, on John's suggestion, we shook out the reef and had a lovely run to Grotto Point. The big winds from Saturday had left a bit of swell acoss the Heads but nothing good old Cheshire Cat can't handle. Skipper error saw us re-rounding the Grotto Point mark. Beating back to East Channel had the gunnels in the water and the odd grumble about the winches. New crew member Cat (well named for us) worked hard but isn't yet used to the brute arm strength we use.
By the East Channel mark Mercedes had caught up to us and we rounded just ahead as they overshot. Then they cruised past and left us in their wake across to Chowder Bay. With their better pointing ability both the big boats passed us by the Rose Bay buoy as we had to put in more tacks. While Mercedes increased her big lead we kept reasonably close to Alcyone finishing a few minutes later.
The sun was shining but it was still pretty cold with the maximum for the day only 18 degreees. After yet another delicious lunch (thanks Julie) moored off Darling Point we motored home giving Cat a go at the wheel on the way.
Still no results so we have no idea where we stand but know we are at least third in the Spring series. No pics as noone had a camera.
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