Reinrag² Blog!


Read the documentations of the trips and trials of boat racing on the Reinrag2!

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Another day at the office

Finally, we have reached R2's dance floor.

Regardless of the outcome, this is why you do this. Currently under partly cloudy skies, full main, 2A spinnaker and running staysail - we are flying. The wind has been steady from 18-21 knots and at it's current direction only about 10 degrees low of Hawaii. Our boat speeds range from 11-17 knots depending on the 'ramps' and how they are set up. Ramps are waves that really set the boat in motion. Big air, fast, downwind ocean sailing is a bit like skiing moguls. It's much better to work with them and go around them than over or through them. If the ramp is right, and you pick a good course, you can rip along at 14 knots for minutes.

Several highlights today one of which is watching Lashawna drive. Literally her chin barely clears the top of R2's wheel but she can really go. She has done a lot of suffering and sailing which helps her understand how to set the boat up in the wave pattern to take and advantage of the next set - and she does. Just as in 03, 05 and 07, she currently holds the top speed.

Another cool thing this year is that Kevin brought a mini, waterproof camera that shoots video. He took some great stuff that should turn out fun. He even shot under the boat looking forward with fish eye.

Finally highlight today is Kevin took the first shower. I think I'm due but that first bucket is colldddddddd.

If this keeps up and the shift comes in, our standings should improve, but if not, it sure is an awesome sail.

Thanks,

Joby

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Stumbled across your blog, looking up to see how you guys were doing, sounds like great times, jealous, sail fast.

-Doug
(J24 Free Bowl of Soup)

Anonymous said...

Was in it in 2005 on Plan B. Watched you guys in 2007. Good luck and sail fast!
Bill Moore
J105 Kestrel