The wind was 15-18 knts so most started with 3 metre sails for the first hour training session. We had a couple of showers but this didn't seem to stop everyone enjoying a relaxing days sailing. While the wind dropped a bit at times this only added to the skill needed to get off the start line on time with speed and then sail the 2 minute course. With no shortcuts allowed at the start getting the timing correct was important. Some upwind/downwind legs meant that angles were necessary to keep speed around the tricky little circuit. We had three 4 metres but even in a dropping breeze they didn't dominate without a good start. With about 14-15 on the start, 2 seconds late often meant middle of the fleet as everyone started to get the timing right. Great to see the improvement.

Most then changed to 4 metre sails and we set a course "around the mountain" in about 12-15 knts. An ideal course for the westerly breeze with fast legs down the back if you got a gust on the rec. centre corner and then all powered up down past the netball courts.  We used reverse starts which meant there was a challenge for everyone and sailed either 3 or 4 laps, depending on who was leading and whether they stopped or not. I think everyone had a turn up front over the afternoon. The odd mishap with a couple of punctures and one of the speedsters taking out a safety sign in what could only be described as very poor sailing!

Good to see the youth team out and handling these conditions well plus Dave turned up for his first sail and I'm sure will be back for more and with slightly better wet weather gear.

Graham had a visitor join us (and hopefully the club) and he ended up using his new 5.5 as the wind dropped off about 4 pm. Handling it well for a newcomer and in a good steady breeze.

Next weekend will be casual sailing at BPP on Sunday or there is the BAI AGM followed by the BBC race day at Papamoa. A number are planning on being at the race day and I encourage them to be there early and attend the AGM as well. It is your national association and this is the forum to put forward your views. I'm planning on putting forward that BAI fees rise to $200 each so you better be there if you don't agree.

Will update during the week.

Russell