Thursday, 26 December 2013
Boxing day sailing, or not. 26th December 2013
Sadly, although I had the opportunity to sail today, there was a distinct lack of wind. So, once around the reservoir on foot and home.
Here are some photographs to illustrate the calm conditions;
Footnote: The decision to abandon hope of sailing was justified by the weather record of the day - nothing recorded above 4 knots for most of the afternoon.
Here are some photographs to illustrate the calm conditions;
Footnote: The decision to abandon hope of sailing was justified by the weather record of the day - nothing recorded above 4 knots for most of the afternoon.
Monday, 23 December 2013
Winter sailing
Sad to say, that sailing in the second half of the year has been disappointing.
It is only recently that sailing at my home venue, Cheddar Reservoir, has resumed.
I had been cursing Bristol water for leaving the water level too low for easy launching - or in my case - impossible to launch solo. The muddy finger of the 'hard' was just too soft for my obvious beast of a boat!
Apparently, it was due to an bloom of algae, and the water was deliberatly lowered to try to kill it off.
Can't say I saw anything promulgated to that effect until the temperature dropped and the water level was starting to rise. But, there you go.
So, it has been very frustrating to not be able to get on the water.
The first week I was able to get out on the boat, late November; we had sun, we had water, we had wind. What we didn't have, was a full complement of duty personnel to man the safety boat.
It really isn't good enough for people to not to bother to turn up for duty, or even to let the OOD know.
Having turned up and prepped the boat, I hung around a bit, washed the boat down, and put it away again.
I composed, in my head, a stinging email to the Commodore several times before coming to the conclusion I'd be wasting my time.
The next week was more successful. Not so much wind, but enough to get going. The wind did subside to almost nothing, necessitating a bit of paddling at the end of the day, to get back in.
Next sailing is scheduled for Boxing day - fingers crossed.
It is only recently that sailing at my home venue, Cheddar Reservoir, has resumed.
I had been cursing Bristol water for leaving the water level too low for easy launching - or in my case - impossible to launch solo. The muddy finger of the 'hard' was just too soft for my obvious beast of a boat!
Apparently, it was due to an bloom of algae, and the water was deliberatly lowered to try to kill it off.
Can't say I saw anything promulgated to that effect until the temperature dropped and the water level was starting to rise. But, there you go.
So, it has been very frustrating to not be able to get on the water.
The first week I was able to get out on the boat, late November; we had sun, we had water, we had wind. What we didn't have, was a full complement of duty personnel to man the safety boat.
It really isn't good enough for people to not to bother to turn up for duty, or even to let the OOD know.
Having turned up and prepped the boat, I hung around a bit, washed the boat down, and put it away again.
I composed, in my head, a stinging email to the Commodore several times before coming to the conclusion I'd be wasting my time.
The next week was more successful. Not so much wind, but enough to get going. The wind did subside to almost nothing, necessitating a bit of paddling at the end of the day, to get back in.
Next sailing is scheduled for Boxing day - fingers crossed.
Sunday, 7 April 2013
A momentary lapse of Winter.... 6th April 2013
After, what seems like forever, I finally get to launch in the res'.
It seems a long time since I was last able to sail; work and weather putting paid to launching.
I was blown out, almost literally, over Easter. I had planned to sail on the Saturday and again on the Wednesday - the first weekday sail of the season.
However, just a little too much in the way of wind for me. Well, the gusts really. 18kts, gusting up to 30+. More excitement than I was looking for.
So, as the week progressed, it seemed more and more likely that Saturday would be a goer.
Not a lot of wind forecast and as the day dawned this was pretty much the case. Some rustling in the undergowth evident in the garden was encouraging.
So, I duly arrived at 10:40, scooped the ice out of the bilges and prepped the dinghy for launch.
I've done it quicker, but having not assembled it all for close to two months, it pays to be thorough.
I needed to equalise the air pressure in my mast floats - not the most exciting of tasks but can't be having collapsed floats up the mast.
Unusually, I was beaten into the water by a young lad in a Topper. And I was followed fairly closely by an RS Feva.
After an hour though, I had the water to myself - along with my two safety boat shadows.
Come 1pm, the junior sailing club hit the water in five RS Feva's.
I'm used to being fairly lonesome on the water, but there were nine of us on the water simultaneously mid-afternoon.
Wind conditions were on the soft side. A couple of times I was completely becalmed, but overall, there was enough to bet going. I was a little amused by a crew of three girls , in an RS 2000 dinghy, with a reefed main sail. Squealing at not very much. They made me feel righeously confident.
I did get to hike out and the top speed achieved was around 5.something kts.
The wind was interesting in its' direction. Several times I'd be happily cruising along, only for the wind to shift by 90 degrees or more; in the wrong direction. I was nearly caught out once. Sailing by the lee is for others to practice.
All in all, a good sail in good weather. Even came home with a rosy glow.
On the mundane side, I moved the dinghy and trailer along the line in the boatyard. My previous position was such that the mast was being interfered with by the branches of a tree.
Not now though. Just waiting for the phone call from the storage member to tell me to move.
Sod's law dictates that if a tree were now to topple in a freak wind, it will be the one now closer to the boat. C'est la vie.
Back to looking for the next weekends weather forecast.
It seems a long time since I was last able to sail; work and weather putting paid to launching.
I was blown out, almost literally, over Easter. I had planned to sail on the Saturday and again on the Wednesday - the first weekday sail of the season.
However, just a little too much in the way of wind for me. Well, the gusts really. 18kts, gusting up to 30+. More excitement than I was looking for.
So, as the week progressed, it seemed more and more likely that Saturday would be a goer.
Not a lot of wind forecast and as the day dawned this was pretty much the case. Some rustling in the undergowth evident in the garden was encouraging.
So, I duly arrived at 10:40, scooped the ice out of the bilges and prepped the dinghy for launch.
I've done it quicker, but having not assembled it all for close to two months, it pays to be thorough.
I needed to equalise the air pressure in my mast floats - not the most exciting of tasks but can't be having collapsed floats up the mast.
Unusually, I was beaten into the water by a young lad in a Topper. And I was followed fairly closely by an RS Feva.
After an hour though, I had the water to myself - along with my two safety boat shadows.
Come 1pm, the junior sailing club hit the water in five RS Feva's.
I'm used to being fairly lonesome on the water, but there were nine of us on the water simultaneously mid-afternoon.
Wind conditions were on the soft side. A couple of times I was completely becalmed, but overall, there was enough to bet going. I was a little amused by a crew of three girls , in an RS 2000 dinghy, with a reefed main sail. Squealing at not very much. They made me feel righeously confident.
I did get to hike out and the top speed achieved was around 5.something kts.
The wind was interesting in its' direction. Several times I'd be happily cruising along, only for the wind to shift by 90 degrees or more; in the wrong direction. I was nearly caught out once. Sailing by the lee is for others to practice.
All in all, a good sail in good weather. Even came home with a rosy glow.
On the mundane side, I moved the dinghy and trailer along the line in the boatyard. My previous position was such that the mast was being interfered with by the branches of a tree.
Not now though. Just waiting for the phone call from the storage member to tell me to move.
Sod's law dictates that if a tree were now to topple in a freak wind, it will be the one now closer to the boat. C'est la vie.
Back to looking for the next weekends weather forecast.
Sunday, 3 February 2013
Hello old friend!
So, after a combination of poor weather (to say the least), work and family calamities, we get to go back on the water this weekend.
Not a lot of water in the dinghy and a distinct lack of insects as well - which was nice.
Good grief, did I feel rusty. The gusty wind didn't help to inspire confidence but as I pretty much had the reservoir to myself, at least no one got to witness my hamfisted efforts to circulate the buoys.
I did at least stay dry.
No video's this time, due to my killing the memory card on my camera up a mountain in Italy.
Whoever would have thought that SD cards don't like -20C.
Slightly easier to recover the boat due to the water level being about three feet lower than previously; can get a bit of a run up the slipway. That would be the nicely slime free slipway.
Not a lot of water in the dinghy and a distinct lack of insects as well - which was nice.
Good grief, did I feel rusty. The gusty wind didn't help to inspire confidence but as I pretty much had the reservoir to myself, at least no one got to witness my hamfisted efforts to circulate the buoys.
I did at least stay dry.
No video's this time, due to my killing the memory card on my camera up a mountain in Italy.
Whoever would have thought that SD cards don't like -20C.
Slightly easier to recover the boat due to the water level being about three feet lower than previously; can get a bit of a run up the slipway. That would be the nicely slime free slipway.
Sunday, 16 December 2012
Finally......
Since the last post I have managed to get onto the water twice. Today, I enjoyed a day of limited wind and some rain and occasional sun, on Cheddar reservoir.
My first time in a really heavy shower - odd really. Once I'd decided that there wasn't any lightening about, I just got on with it. With a dry suit, only the face getting peppered with stinging rain was a minor irriation. That, and getting the sails wet.
I even took part in the afternoon race. More by accident than anything else. As the PM race was lining up, the driver of a safety boat that I had chatted to in the changing room asked as he passed - " are you going to race then", so I thought, why not.
I'd like to say how brilliantly I had done, but sadly it's not the case. I lost time trying to keep out of the way of the Enterprise boys who went off first. Which resulted in my effectively doing a penalty turn to get around the windward buoy.
I just couldn't get the boat going in the very light wind. Consequently, I'll gloss over where I came in the fleet.
Still, four hours plus in the boat can't be sneezed at.
Small chuckle at one of the skiffs who managed to capsize and invert in near zero wind; quite and achievement - of sorts.
And we get to enjoy sunsets.
My first time in a really heavy shower - odd really. Once I'd decided that there wasn't any lightening about, I just got on with it. With a dry suit, only the face getting peppered with stinging rain was a minor irriation. That, and getting the sails wet.
I even took part in the afternoon race. More by accident than anything else. As the PM race was lining up, the driver of a safety boat that I had chatted to in the changing room asked as he passed - " are you going to race then", so I thought, why not.
I'd like to say how brilliantly I had done, but sadly it's not the case. I lost time trying to keep out of the way of the Enterprise boys who went off first. Which resulted in my effectively doing a penalty turn to get around the windward buoy.
I just couldn't get the boat going in the very light wind. Consequently, I'll gloss over where I came in the fleet.
Still, four hours plus in the boat can't be sneezed at.
Small chuckle at one of the skiffs who managed to capsize and invert in near zero wind; quite and achievement - of sorts.
And we get to enjoy sunsets.
Tuesday, 6 November 2012
Long time - no sail.
Nothing much to say, sadly.
Trying very hard not to swear, but the recent weather has been more than a little disappointing.
Haven't been able to get on the water for weeks.
Not a happy bunny.
Trying very hard not to swear, but the recent weather has been more than a little disappointing.
Haven't been able to get on the water for weeks.
Not a happy bunny.
Tuesday, 11 September 2012
Near perfect Sunday sailing - 9th September 2012
As there was no wind forecast on Saturday, I changed my whole routine for Sunday and went sailing instead. Who wants to spend three hours in the gym anyway!
Pretty much perfect sailing condition; well, maybe the wind was a little soft, but steady breeze 8 - 10 kts - when I launched anyway.
Had a new toy to play with. A waterproof video camera. I mounted this on the tiller, which is a little low. So, will need to find a better place.
Still, at least it works. Too much in the knee department possibly; certainly in the other segments.
Having launched at 10:30 I found myself cruising past the slipway around 14:30. When to be frank, the wind had all but disappeared. So, the decision was made to call it a day; only slightly early really.
Any, even though I was smeared in factor 50 sun screen, I still managed to obtain a healthy glow - or pink colour to my face. The good news was that my knees didn't burn this time.
Pretty much perfect sailing condition; well, maybe the wind was a little soft, but steady breeze 8 - 10 kts - when I launched anyway.
Had a new toy to play with. A waterproof video camera. I mounted this on the tiller, which is a little low. So, will need to find a better place.
Still, at least it works. Too much in the knee department possibly; certainly in the other segments.
Having launched at 10:30 I found myself cruising past the slipway around 14:30. When to be frank, the wind had all but disappeared. So, the decision was made to call it a day; only slightly early really.
Any, even though I was smeared in factor 50 sun screen, I still managed to obtain a healthy glow - or pink colour to my face. The good news was that my knees didn't burn this time.
Friday, 7 September 2012
Half a Day Skipper certified - 7th September 2012.
Handed in my second and last final assessment for the Day Skipper Theory Course on Thursday morning.
Today, this arrived in the post.
Well chuffed - as they say.
Celebrated with a ride down to Watchet Marina for lunch.
Today, this arrived in the post.
Celebrated with a ride down to Watchet Marina for lunch.
Thursday, 6 September 2012
Sailing - On a Wednesday! - 5th Sept 2012
I took the week off to study and take my final RYA Day Skipper assessments. But, as I had completed them a lot earlier than I had anticipated, I was able to take advantage of the final Wednesday evening sailing at the sailing club at Cheddar.
I got to the boat park at about 4:30 pm and was in the water for 5:30 pm. Winds were light but worthwhile when I got afloat. So., off I went tacking and gybing at a relatively modest rate.
About six o'clock Sue came down and I worked my way back to the pontoon so she could get in with the minimum of water following her. I suspect the gathered sailors outside the clubhouse were hoping for a complete horlicks of an approach. But apart from a couple of admitedly quick tacks to line up with the pontoon, I avoided anything remotely entertaining - phew!
As is generally the case. As the time progressed, so the wind dropped. Which made the final race of the season rather a sedate affair.
By 7 pm the wind was virtually nothing. So, having decided to go in - maybe ahead of the race fleet - we slowly, as in painfully slowly, made our way back to the slipway. The Praddel coming in very handy.
Not a bad way to spend a Wednesday afternoon / evening anyway.
I got to the boat park at about 4:30 pm and was in the water for 5:30 pm. Winds were light but worthwhile when I got afloat. So., off I went tacking and gybing at a relatively modest rate.
About six o'clock Sue came down and I worked my way back to the pontoon so she could get in with the minimum of water following her. I suspect the gathered sailors outside the clubhouse were hoping for a complete horlicks of an approach. But apart from a couple of admitedly quick tacks to line up with the pontoon, I avoided anything remotely entertaining - phew!
As is generally the case. As the time progressed, so the wind dropped. Which made the final race of the season rather a sedate affair.
By 7 pm the wind was virtually nothing. So, having decided to go in - maybe ahead of the race fleet - we slowly, as in painfully slowly, made our way back to the slipway. The Praddel coming in very handy.
Not a bad way to spend a Wednesday afternoon / evening anyway.
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| The Race Fleet - Cheddar Gorge in background. |
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| Sunset at Cheddar Reservoir - looking toward Crook Peak |
Monday, 3 September 2012
A bit 'blowy' for some- Saturday 1st September 2012.
Saturday morning chores completed, off to the Sailing club.
I find myself wondering if everyone else's boat is a haven for insect life, as much as mine is.
I don't mind spiders that much - unlike the missus' - so clearing away spider or two isn't an issue. But the size of the blighters! I swear one had the body the size of my thumb nail.
Anyway, the wind was up to 18 kts as I got the Gull ready - as per my little Chinese anemometer anyway. However you measured it, damp finger or posh weather station - you know when it's on the edge of manageable; for my pitiful sailing skills anyway.
Back and forwards for a bit. It was when the water was consistently coming over the gunwales that I really wished I had reefed prior. It's also at times like these, you really wish the Calypso variant had some sort of self bailer.
So after a couple of hours in the water, I thought lunch ashore with reefs being applied was in order.
Lunch consumed, it became clear to me that the water wasn't as crowded as I remembered. Quite a few club members clearly deciding it was just a little too much of a challenge.
The wind had got up over a period and I couldn't quite summon up the courage or bloody mindedness to go out again.
I did give the boat a darn good rinsing down to get rid of various insect related stains and marks - so at least the dinghy looks presentable again - until next the time it's uncovered.
Packed away and slunk off home. Planning to cut the lawn, well grass, as a penance.
Shame, the grass was still wet.
So, books out and continue revising for the Day Skipper assessments coming up.
I find myself wondering if everyone else's boat is a haven for insect life, as much as mine is.
I don't mind spiders that much - unlike the missus' - so clearing away spider or two isn't an issue. But the size of the blighters! I swear one had the body the size of my thumb nail.
Anyway, the wind was up to 18 kts as I got the Gull ready - as per my little Chinese anemometer anyway. However you measured it, damp finger or posh weather station - you know when it's on the edge of manageable; for my pitiful sailing skills anyway.
Back and forwards for a bit. It was when the water was consistently coming over the gunwales that I really wished I had reefed prior. It's also at times like these, you really wish the Calypso variant had some sort of self bailer.
So after a couple of hours in the water, I thought lunch ashore with reefs being applied was in order.
Lunch consumed, it became clear to me that the water wasn't as crowded as I remembered. Quite a few club members clearly deciding it was just a little too much of a challenge.
The wind had got up over a period and I couldn't quite summon up the courage or bloody mindedness to go out again.
I did give the boat a darn good rinsing down to get rid of various insect related stains and marks - so at least the dinghy looks presentable again - until next the time it's uncovered.
Packed away and slunk off home. Planning to cut the lawn, well grass, as a penance.
Shame, the grass was still wet.
So, books out and continue revising for the Day Skipper assessments coming up.
Sunday, 26 August 2012
August catch-up.
I'd like to be saying how much I was/had been enjoying the Gull dinghy sailors outing to Rutland water this August Bank Holiday. However, due to being unable to get out of my galley duty at the sailing club, it was not to be.
If I didn't have quite such a positive attitude to doing club duties, I might mention that the sailing conditions were nigh on perfect on the reservoir; sunny, good winds and not too many racing boats to avoid - although, having done a couple of races on holiday, it looked fun, damn it! Hopefully, Rutland Water was similarly blessed but this year it was not to be. Next year, I will make sure August Bank Holiday and maybe other BH's are booked off.
I've been sailing a couple of times this month. On the 5th there was certainly plenty of wind.
I sailed about in a fairly stiff breeze from midday to 2, when Sue joined me. I wasn't too sure if she was coming over, as she had important shopping to get done - as females do. Not to mention the cavity wall insulation survey I had neglected to mention to her (oops!).
Anyway, it was a bit touch and go if we went out, as the wind had picked up from the already plentiful amount I had enjoyed the in morning.
We clearly need to get a bit more practice launching with two. As, with Sue on board (not keen to helm), I prepared to jump on board, when a gust pulled the dinghy out of my hand, and Sue left the shore on her lonesome. Unfortunately, Sue isn't too confident on her own at the moment - maybe she should be, having done up to RYA level 2 already, but she doesn't go out much. Anyway, after a moment or two of panic both afloat and ashore, she managed to take control and edge into shore, close enough for me to grab a hold and leap majestically, or at least scramble, aboard.
Keeping to a beam reach, back and forth for a while. Discretion dictated we left it at that and we came in after about an hour. Not unenjoyable, but I wish it had been better weather, I need to encourage her as much a possible to get her up to speed in the boat. Otherwise, hopes of sailing offshore are going to be dashed.
Better weather on the 19th. In the water around midday and out about 4pm. Nice sail. Enough wind to be interesting and this time I tried to go as fast as I could in the prevailing wind. I measured 6+ knots on the GPS; fully hiked out and still not near anything level sailing. Good fun, but could probably do with more mass in the boat to keep level.
Currently, I am trying to complete my RYA Day Skipper Theory distance learning course.
I'm trying to return the mock assessment by the end of the week and get the final assessment done in September. It's becoming a bit time critical as I need to complete it all by early October.
Plenty of swotting to look forward to in the next couple of weeks.
If I didn't have quite such a positive attitude to doing club duties, I might mention that the sailing conditions were nigh on perfect on the reservoir; sunny, good winds and not too many racing boats to avoid - although, having done a couple of races on holiday, it looked fun, damn it! Hopefully, Rutland Water was similarly blessed but this year it was not to be. Next year, I will make sure August Bank Holiday and maybe other BH's are booked off.
I've been sailing a couple of times this month. On the 5th there was certainly plenty of wind.
I sailed about in a fairly stiff breeze from midday to 2, when Sue joined me. I wasn't too sure if she was coming over, as she had important shopping to get done - as females do. Not to mention the cavity wall insulation survey I had neglected to mention to her (oops!).
Anyway, it was a bit touch and go if we went out, as the wind had picked up from the already plentiful amount I had enjoyed the in morning.
We clearly need to get a bit more practice launching with two. As, with Sue on board (not keen to helm), I prepared to jump on board, when a gust pulled the dinghy out of my hand, and Sue left the shore on her lonesome. Unfortunately, Sue isn't too confident on her own at the moment - maybe she should be, having done up to RYA level 2 already, but she doesn't go out much. Anyway, after a moment or two of panic both afloat and ashore, she managed to take control and edge into shore, close enough for me to grab a hold and leap majestically, or at least scramble, aboard.
Keeping to a beam reach, back and forth for a while. Discretion dictated we left it at that and we came in after about an hour. Not unenjoyable, but I wish it had been better weather, I need to encourage her as much a possible to get her up to speed in the boat. Otherwise, hopes of sailing offshore are going to be dashed.
Better weather on the 19th. In the water around midday and out about 4pm. Nice sail. Enough wind to be interesting and this time I tried to go as fast as I could in the prevailing wind. I measured 6+ knots on the GPS; fully hiked out and still not near anything level sailing. Good fun, but could probably do with more mass in the boat to keep level.
Currently, I am trying to complete my RYA Day Skipper Theory distance learning course.
I'm trying to return the mock assessment by the end of the week and get the final assessment done in September. It's becoming a bit time critical as I need to complete it all by early October.
Plenty of swotting to look forward to in the next couple of weeks.
Tuesday, 14 August 2012
21st July 2012 - Sailing in Plymouth Sound
Again, not strictly referring to Gull dinghy sailing, but sailing nonetheless.
We had the chance to spend a day on the The Helen Mary R, a 57ft two master, which is the training yacht run by the Morvargh Sailing Project , sailing around Plymouth Sound.
Onboard by 09:30, safety briefing and familiarisation, let slip around 10:30,through the lock gates of Sutton Marina and into an unfortunately foggy Plymouth Sound. Sailing was a fairly sedate affair, ending up in time for lunch at anchor close to Cawsand, on the Cornish side of the sound.
The sun appeared as we finished up lunch and, anchors aweigh, the sailing could begin proper.
I didn't generally hold back when there was hallyards to be hauled or fenders to be manned and had a whale of a time. And, so as not to waste the opportunity, spent all too short a time taking the helm tacking back and forward along the breakwater from Cawsand toward the Mewstone.
There was a bit of queue getting back into Sutton Marina, due to the regatta finishing as we headed home.
A very enjoyable day on the water, even if I didn't get the sun screen on soon enough and came home the colour of a strawberry - not necessarily a good look.
We had the chance to spend a day on the The Helen Mary R, a 57ft two master, which is the training yacht run by the Morvargh Sailing Project , sailing around Plymouth Sound.
Onboard by 09:30, safety briefing and familiarisation, let slip around 10:30,through the lock gates of Sutton Marina and into an unfortunately foggy Plymouth Sound. Sailing was a fairly sedate affair, ending up in time for lunch at anchor close to Cawsand, on the Cornish side of the sound.
The sun appeared as we finished up lunch and, anchors aweigh, the sailing could begin proper.
I didn't generally hold back when there was hallyards to be hauled or fenders to be manned and had a whale of a time. And, so as not to waste the opportunity, spent all too short a time taking the helm tacking back and forward along the breakwater from Cawsand toward the Mewstone.
There was a bit of queue getting back into Sutton Marina, due to the regatta finishing as we headed home.
A very enjoyable day on the water, even if I didn't get the sun screen on soon enough and came home the colour of a strawberry - not necessarily a good look.
Tuesday, 10 July 2012
Sailing at Club Teos, Turkey : July 2012
Just got back from a weeks holiday in Turkey, with Neilson, at Club Teos in the Izmir region.
Not sailing with the Gull but sailing all the same.
As RYA training was included in the holiday, I signed up for the level 3 sailing course.
During the week, I got to sail; Laser 1, Laser Pico, Dart 16 cat, Laser Bahia, Laser SB3.
Plus kayaking, waterskiing and stand up paddling.
The wind conditions were quite variable; mostly F4 - F5, occasionally F6 - F7 down to almost calm, as the sea breeze balanced out the prevailing northerly.
I guess some of the sailing conditions might be considered challenging. I entered a Pico into the end of week regatta, so any chance I got I went out.
I probably wouldn't have normally gone out in 20 kt winds and four foot swell, but in order to get familiar with the boat, as much practice as possible was required.
So, smashing through the waves beating upwind, while not particularly comfortable, was a confidence builder if nothing else.
All in all, a good holiday, with lots of sailing. While I'd certainly recommend the resort and probably Neilson, to anyone, it would have to be said that getting to and from the beach to the bay was a slow affair, as the hill blocked the wind substantially.
I certainly feel happier sailing in rough weather now, but if I want to risk my own dinghy in big waves remains to be seen.
Not sailing with the Gull but sailing all the same.
As RYA training was included in the holiday, I signed up for the level 3 sailing course.
During the week, I got to sail; Laser 1, Laser Pico, Dart 16 cat, Laser Bahia, Laser SB3.
Plus kayaking, waterskiing and stand up paddling.
The wind conditions were quite variable; mostly F4 - F5, occasionally F6 - F7 down to almost calm, as the sea breeze balanced out the prevailing northerly.
I guess some of the sailing conditions might be considered challenging. I entered a Pico into the end of week regatta, so any chance I got I went out.
I probably wouldn't have normally gone out in 20 kt winds and four foot swell, but in order to get familiar with the boat, as much practice as possible was required.
So, smashing through the waves beating upwind, while not particularly comfortable, was a confidence builder if nothing else.
All in all, a good holiday, with lots of sailing. While I'd certainly recommend the resort and probably Neilson, to anyone, it would have to be said that getting to and from the beach to the bay was a slow affair, as the hill blocked the wind substantially.
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| Club Teos Beach - more boats required? |
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| Going out in a Pico |
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| View from the restaurant |
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| Waterskiing - Starting a run |
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| Waterskiing - Finishing a run in the usual way! |
Saturday, 23 June 2012
Finally, some decent weather - Saturday 23rd June 2012
Having not been able to sail for a few weeks, due to work and extreme weather, there was at last some reasonable weather to get afloat with.
As I get to the club, it starts to rain - great - but it doesn't last long. Quite a stiff breeze as I launch but manageable.
Around the buoys, clockwise, for a couple of hours. Hove to for lunch. Anti-clockwise for another two.
At about 3:25 I reversed for the final time and headed in. Only the wind had virtually disappeared. So, a slow arrival at the hard, derigged and home by 5:30.
Where it had been raining all afternoon - result.
Nice to get back on the water.
.... a photo of a Laser sailing with Cheddar Gorge in the background.
....boats and boards around the clubhouse at Cheddar
Next week - Sailing in Turkey.
As I get to the club, it starts to rain - great - but it doesn't last long. Quite a stiff breeze as I launch but manageable.
Around the buoys, clockwise, for a couple of hours. Hove to for lunch. Anti-clockwise for another two.
At about 3:25 I reversed for the final time and headed in. Only the wind had virtually disappeared. So, a slow arrival at the hard, derigged and home by 5:30.
Where it had been raining all afternoon - result.
Nice to get back on the water.
.... a photo of a Laser sailing with Cheddar Gorge in the background.
Next week - Sailing in Turkey.
Sunday, 10 June 2012
Ah well, maybe not today! - Saturday 9th June 2012
As I was unable to even think about sailing last weekend, due to work commitments - all over the Jubilee weekend - I had high hopes of getting out on the water this weekend.
Early in the week, the weather forecast suggested that Saturday might be a reasonable opportunity, sunny with maybe a stiff-ish breeze.
Saturday morning, it seemed a bit more than forecast, but I packed the sails and foil along with my other kit and headed off to the res'.
On arrival, it was blowing like a bugger - to use a technical term.
Not giving up just yet, I sat in the car for a while, then checked the dinghy was still OK, given the recent winds, and finally headed for the clubhouse to watch developments. Wind gauge showing around 18 kts gusting above 20.
At the start of the official sailing time, one laser launched and this was followed a few minutes later by the sailing course.
Watching sailors launch in a reasonable wind could be considered amusing by some, but entertainment wasn't on my mind. I was still, metaphorically, beating myself up for not continuing sailing last time, and I was looking for any encouragement to brave it again.
Five boats, varying from RS200's to Enterprises, launched after some considerable efforts by the crews of two or three. All were using a small sail, with Mirror icons on them mostly; giving roughly half the sail area of a full size sail for the dinghy. Flogging wildly in the wind as they were rigged.
Within ten minutes, three had gone over. After about 30 minutes, I noticed the Laser had recovered to the hard and was being packed away.
I caught half a conversation involving a windsurf instructor, to the effect that they wouldn't be taking their students out in this sort of wind.
About this time, I decided that discretion was the better part of valour, and reluctantly, decided to give it a miss. I couldn't see me getting onto the water until 2pm anyway and the winds hadn't shown any inclincation to abate by that time.
Single handed, it was going to be a struggle to get launched and recovered - maybe OK once launched and away, but as this is supposed to be fun and I didn't want to damage the dinghy.
So, off home I went. Bonneville out of the garage and 60 miles around Somerset later back into the garage.
Not a wasted day after all.
Early in the week, the weather forecast suggested that Saturday might be a reasonable opportunity, sunny with maybe a stiff-ish breeze.
Saturday morning, it seemed a bit more than forecast, but I packed the sails and foil along with my other kit and headed off to the res'.
On arrival, it was blowing like a bugger - to use a technical term.
Not giving up just yet, I sat in the car for a while, then checked the dinghy was still OK, given the recent winds, and finally headed for the clubhouse to watch developments. Wind gauge showing around 18 kts gusting above 20.
At the start of the official sailing time, one laser launched and this was followed a few minutes later by the sailing course.
Watching sailors launch in a reasonable wind could be considered amusing by some, but entertainment wasn't on my mind. I was still, metaphorically, beating myself up for not continuing sailing last time, and I was looking for any encouragement to brave it again.
Five boats, varying from RS200's to Enterprises, launched after some considerable efforts by the crews of two or three. All were using a small sail, with Mirror icons on them mostly; giving roughly half the sail area of a full size sail for the dinghy. Flogging wildly in the wind as they were rigged.
Within ten minutes, three had gone over. After about 30 minutes, I noticed the Laser had recovered to the hard and was being packed away.
I caught half a conversation involving a windsurf instructor, to the effect that they wouldn't be taking their students out in this sort of wind.
About this time, I decided that discretion was the better part of valour, and reluctantly, decided to give it a miss. I couldn't see me getting onto the water until 2pm anyway and the winds hadn't shown any inclincation to abate by that time.
Single handed, it was going to be a struggle to get launched and recovered - maybe OK once launched and away, but as this is supposed to be fun and I didn't want to damage the dinghy.
So, off home I went. Bonneville out of the garage and 60 miles around Somerset later back into the garage.
Not a wasted day after all.
Saturday, 26 May 2012
Busy day for the safety boats - Saturday 26th May 2012
As forecast, sun and as much wind as you can handle, or maybe more than some can handle.
Various weather sites were forecasting 16 kts plus for today and for a change, they proved to be right.
Single handed, a stiff breeze gives some challenges when getting afloat. But, off we went at 11:30. Soon there were a number of other boats on the water, with reefed mainsails - unlike mine. Damn.
Can't say exactly how strong the wind was, but the white horses on the water suggest force 4 to 5.
It's not so much the wind, but the gusts and holes in the wind that provided a couple of hours of entertainment; punctuated with a pause on the slipway to reef the mainsail.
Back and forwards I went, with the safety boats buzzing around all over the place, as they raced to the latest dinghy to capsize. Typically, the water closer to the clubhouse were calmer, given the E to NE direction of the wind. Far more excitement to be had on the leeward side of the water.
Sue turned up to watch from a dry position around 1PM so I did my best to demonstrate my boat handling skills as she observed through binoculars - she copes well with disappointment.
Around 1:40 PM I headed in for a chat and tied the boat up near the slipway ramp and while I eat lunch, we observed the near carnage going on around the reservoir. Well, maybe a slight exageration, but plenty of boats were going over.
It's hard to say whether the wind surfers were falling in more than usual, as they spend a lot of time in the water anyway.
Credit to the juniors in the Optimists - but I suppose having no concept of fear helps. They weren't immune from capsizing, but they seemed to cope better with the wind than the larger boats. A few did need recovering to shore by safety boat, but still, fair play to them.
Lunch consumed, I pondered the prospect of going out again. As I had already confirmed the effectiveness of my drysuit, I was in two minds.
I would have only been going out for another hour anyway, so I chickened out and decided to recover the boat and go home to mow the lawn.
Tomorrow AM, I'll be out on the Bonneville; got to make the most of the weather. PM I'd plan to cycle out to the reservoir and maybe watch a couple of races while cycling around the perimeter.
...and that's without mentioning the motorsports. Busy, busy, busy. So many interests, so little time.
Various weather sites were forecasting 16 kts plus for today and for a change, they proved to be right.
Single handed, a stiff breeze gives some challenges when getting afloat. But, off we went at 11:30. Soon there were a number of other boats on the water, with reefed mainsails - unlike mine. Damn.
Can't say exactly how strong the wind was, but the white horses on the water suggest force 4 to 5.
It's not so much the wind, but the gusts and holes in the wind that provided a couple of hours of entertainment; punctuated with a pause on the slipway to reef the mainsail.
Back and forwards I went, with the safety boats buzzing around all over the place, as they raced to the latest dinghy to capsize. Typically, the water closer to the clubhouse were calmer, given the E to NE direction of the wind. Far more excitement to be had on the leeward side of the water.
Sue turned up to watch from a dry position around 1PM so I did my best to demonstrate my boat handling skills as she observed through binoculars - she copes well with disappointment.
Around 1:40 PM I headed in for a chat and tied the boat up near the slipway ramp and while I eat lunch, we observed the near carnage going on around the reservoir. Well, maybe a slight exageration, but plenty of boats were going over.
It's hard to say whether the wind surfers were falling in more than usual, as they spend a lot of time in the water anyway.
Credit to the juniors in the Optimists - but I suppose having no concept of fear helps. They weren't immune from capsizing, but they seemed to cope better with the wind than the larger boats. A few did need recovering to shore by safety boat, but still, fair play to them.
Lunch consumed, I pondered the prospect of going out again. As I had already confirmed the effectiveness of my drysuit, I was in two minds.
I would have only been going out for another hour anyway, so I chickened out and decided to recover the boat and go home to mow the lawn.
Tomorrow AM, I'll be out on the Bonneville; got to make the most of the weather. PM I'd plan to cycle out to the reservoir and maybe watch a couple of races while cycling around the perimeter.
...and that's without mentioning the motorsports. Busy, busy, busy. So many interests, so little time.
Wednesday, 23 May 2012
More light winds and slicing your finger - Saturday 19th May 2012
As it was a Saturday, best be on the water again.
Dead calm on arrival at the club, but by the time I was prepped and ready to launch, a reasonable breeze had arrived.
Still trying to concentrate on gybing; so around the buoys clockwise, round the buoys anti-clockwise and then in and out the centre and outer buoys in a star shape - sort of. In and out of the traffic, observing collision regs - although trying not to be too much of a nuisance to the learners.
Sharing the water were some juniors sailing Mirrors and the beginners class. Maybe two or three other casual sailors but most of the reservoir was quiet.
Off the water by around 3:45 PM, having enjoyed a freshening breeze in the afternoon, with four hours more boat time. Getting happier with the gybe business - hopefully not famous last words.
I managed to find a sharp edge on the after end of the centre board slot whilst pulling the centre board down for going upwind.
Unfortunately, I had decided not to bother with gloves today, given that it wasn't cold and everything.
If I'd had them on, I wouldn't have sliced my left pinky. It's a bit embarassing to have to admit to it really, but for the sake of completeness, there you have it. The blood dripping around the boat was a bit of a pain. I took the opportunity to hove to and eat lunch whilst trying to elevate the hand and wait for the blood flow to stop. It doesn't help to repeatedly knock it.
Hopefully, it will have healed by next week - weather permitting we'll be afloat again - with gloves!
Dead calm on arrival at the club, but by the time I was prepped and ready to launch, a reasonable breeze had arrived.
Still trying to concentrate on gybing; so around the buoys clockwise, round the buoys anti-clockwise and then in and out the centre and outer buoys in a star shape - sort of. In and out of the traffic, observing collision regs - although trying not to be too much of a nuisance to the learners.
Sharing the water were some juniors sailing Mirrors and the beginners class. Maybe two or three other casual sailors but most of the reservoir was quiet.
Off the water by around 3:45 PM, having enjoyed a freshening breeze in the afternoon, with four hours more boat time. Getting happier with the gybe business - hopefully not famous last words.
I managed to find a sharp edge on the after end of the centre board slot whilst pulling the centre board down for going upwind.
Unfortunately, I had decided not to bother with gloves today, given that it wasn't cold and everything.
If I'd had them on, I wouldn't have sliced my left pinky. It's a bit embarassing to have to admit to it really, but for the sake of completeness, there you have it. The blood dripping around the boat was a bit of a pain. I took the opportunity to hove to and eat lunch whilst trying to elevate the hand and wait for the blood flow to stop. It doesn't help to repeatedly knock it.
Hopefully, it will have healed by next week - weather permitting we'll be afloat again - with gloves!
Tuesday, 15 May 2012
Sunburn and light winds - Saturday 12th May 2012
Finally, after what seemed an age, I get back in the dinghy.
Bad weather, club duty and looking after Sue after surgery, meant missing a few weeks.
But, with light winds forecast and nothing else to stop me, off I went.
Before getting in the water, I refitted the centre board strap that had come loose.
The plastic ends that Harteys had fitted had disintegrated. Not surprising really; the little plastic balls that the screw had at each end, had no washer. So, the screw was just squashing the plastic.
I've used two stainless penny washers either side to compress the strap, which seems to work OK.
Not desperately exciting but had to be done.
It was the busiest I've seen on the reservoir. There was a basic sailing course going on and a Saturday Opie Squad on the water along with several other casual sailors.
I did try to get in amongst the crowd and practice evasion as per collision reg, but was gently asked to bugger off, as, whereas I may know the rules of the road, they might not. Which is how it did work out later on. There I was on a good course to avoid one of the course boats, when they inexplicably turn course directly for me. All good practice though.
Tacking and gybing, with the emphasis on gybing as this is a weak area I feel.
All went well though, and stayed dry throughout.
Tried out videoing with a camera mounted on the tiller - too low sadly. Back to the drawing board.
Had a play with one of the 'Praddel's' that I've bought. I really want it to be Praddle, but it's not.
...and a bargain at 99p on Ebay.
So, four hours later, I head for shore. Lunch, as previously, hove to. Nothing that can get soggy the order of the day.
I didn't get much to drink. I clearly didn't put the top on firmly enough, which meant the elasticated loop I put it in, just squeezed most of the contents into the bilges. Doh. Must sort out a bottle holder.
The boat now has more elasticated loops all over. I've a twisted length across the front of the boat to try to control lengths of halyards etc. Just in case it does go over. I find the unsecured rope manages to twist itself into the most surprising knots, or bunch of bastards, as they say in nautical circles.
http://www.shipsnostalgia.com/guides/Nautical_Terms_A-D
I can secure the Praddel along the thwart under three loops - just slides in without much guidance. My lunch box goes under the thwart under a loop.
Useful stuff, bungy chord.
I have been using a fair bit of velcro strapping to tie ropes down, but feel that in a panic, they may not loose immediately. Bloody useful stuff all the same, but prone to stick to inself, when you least want it.
Off the water by four. Much to the relief of the duty staff. Have to admit to being a bit uncomfortable towards the end. Darn hard those side benches, even with cycling shorts. Oh for some Pilko Pants - a la Carl Pilkington. http://www.pilkopumppants.co.uk/
Even managed to get a little hiking burn on the thighs; as well as actual sunburn. I had thought I was just a little dehydrated but it's genuine sunburn.
Not that it mattesr much, but my healthy or more accurately, just tanned face has been noticed. Shame it's just the face at the moment. Pure white everywhere else, apart from the arms maybe from what cycing I've managed to do this year so far.
Again, an enjoyable day on the water.
Bad weather, club duty and looking after Sue after surgery, meant missing a few weeks.
But, with light winds forecast and nothing else to stop me, off I went.
Before getting in the water, I refitted the centre board strap that had come loose.
The plastic ends that Harteys had fitted had disintegrated. Not surprising really; the little plastic balls that the screw had at each end, had no washer. So, the screw was just squashing the plastic.
I've used two stainless penny washers either side to compress the strap, which seems to work OK.
Not desperately exciting but had to be done.
It was the busiest I've seen on the reservoir. There was a basic sailing course going on and a Saturday Opie Squad on the water along with several other casual sailors.
I did try to get in amongst the crowd and practice evasion as per collision reg, but was gently asked to bugger off, as, whereas I may know the rules of the road, they might not. Which is how it did work out later on. There I was on a good course to avoid one of the course boats, when they inexplicably turn course directly for me. All good practice though.
Tacking and gybing, with the emphasis on gybing as this is a weak area I feel.
All went well though, and stayed dry throughout.
Tried out videoing with a camera mounted on the tiller - too low sadly. Back to the drawing board.
Had a play with one of the 'Praddel's' that I've bought. I really want it to be Praddle, but it's not.
...and a bargain at 99p on Ebay.
So, four hours later, I head for shore. Lunch, as previously, hove to. Nothing that can get soggy the order of the day.
I didn't get much to drink. I clearly didn't put the top on firmly enough, which meant the elasticated loop I put it in, just squeezed most of the contents into the bilges. Doh. Must sort out a bottle holder.
The boat now has more elasticated loops all over. I've a twisted length across the front of the boat to try to control lengths of halyards etc. Just in case it does go over. I find the unsecured rope manages to twist itself into the most surprising knots, or bunch of bastards, as they say in nautical circles.
http://www.shipsnostalgia.com/guides/Nautical_Terms_A-D
I can secure the Praddel along the thwart under three loops - just slides in without much guidance. My lunch box goes under the thwart under a loop.
Useful stuff, bungy chord.
I have been using a fair bit of velcro strapping to tie ropes down, but feel that in a panic, they may not loose immediately. Bloody useful stuff all the same, but prone to stick to inself, when you least want it.
Off the water by four. Much to the relief of the duty staff. Have to admit to being a bit uncomfortable towards the end. Darn hard those side benches, even with cycling shorts. Oh for some Pilko Pants - a la Carl Pilkington. http://www.pilkopumppants.co.uk/
Even managed to get a little hiking burn on the thighs; as well as actual sunburn. I had thought I was just a little dehydrated but it's genuine sunburn.
Not that it mattesr much, but my healthy or more accurately, just tanned face has been noticed. Shame it's just the face at the moment. Pure white everywhere else, apart from the arms maybe from what cycing I've managed to do this year so far.
Again, an enjoyable day on the water.
Monday, 23 April 2012
Galley Duty and Safety Boats : Sunday 22nd April 2012.
The day of our first BCYC duty finally dawned.
We understood that as the sailing club was self sufficient, there would be duty days a few days of the year that we would be required to fulfil; no problem with that. Fingers cross for safety boat then - no such luck.
For reasons only guessed at, but logical I guess, my wife and I were down for galley duty this Sunday - with me head chef.
Now, my egg on toast may be legendary in my own lunchtime, but chef I aint'.
But I am game to give it a go.
Provisions, as per instructions bought, arrived at the clubhouse at a little after 09:00. To be greeted by Wilma - known as Willa - who was to be a third set of hands, and as luck would have it, an experienced galley hand.
Various preparations commenced, with me cooking chicken tikka for twenty. Potato's into the oven in plenty of time to bake and stuff cut up and put out.
Luckily for us, we had not only the usual crowd for lunch but there was also an Enterprise Open meeting to partake in our culinary efforts - and more importantly for us to cope with.
There was a mad hour or so as we made like a restaurant and eventually just about everyone was fed; either with the baked potato plus filling or some of our filled rolls - lucky, lucky people!
So, relax.
On the sailing front;
During the morning, the weather had been a bit dire, well wet, but there were no significant problems on the water.
In the afternoon, however, the wind picked up again and about 14:30 a call came from the OOD / Race Officer for a volunteer to man another safety boat, as there were too many capsizes for the two already out.
Well, as I've said, I'm game.
About 15 minutes later I'm on the water, as crew initially. Just as we get out to the windward mark - three Enterprises collapse. Commence circulating like a nautical vulture. Everyone gets themselves up, so no problem. For the next hour, half as helm on the RIB, we gad about, descending on likely victims, but on the whole everyone sorted themselves out; and there was plenty of capsize recovery going on.
Wind speed got up close to thirty knots and near one metre waves - which for an enclosed reservoir can't be bad? One crew did take a long while to get back upright, but considering it was getting to the end of their third race and the conditions were far from good, maybe thats understandable and as it was only the one crew, maybe BZ'z all round for everyone else.
Brilliant fun tearing around the water on the RIB - but very grateful I brought the dry suit. I got wetter than most days sailing.
About 15:45 the last of the boats were leaving the water and derigging. Most surely crews had more than enough fun for one day!
RIBs out of the water and back into the galley for me, to finish off the day around 16:45.
Overall then, an enjoyable and varied day - given that I'm not sure I would have ventured out on my own in the weather, just about as good a day off the water and could have been got on it.
I hadn't really noticed the tendency before for windsurfers to go back and forward across the reservoir on a beam reach. Just that, back and forward; appearing to use the far side of the reservoir to stop and turn around (surely not?) There was clearly one guy on the reservoir edge walking about on the concrete fiddling with his board - well it is his board I suppose. Don't they do courses - doesn't going back and forward get boring. True, they were going at a fair speed, which must be enjoyable. Can't see me doing the back and forward thing for too long; give me a route around the buoys anytime - clearly I need a purpose not just exhilaration; I wonder what that says about me?
(Note to self; need more photo's)
We understood that as the sailing club was self sufficient, there would be duty days a few days of the year that we would be required to fulfil; no problem with that. Fingers cross for safety boat then - no such luck.
For reasons only guessed at, but logical I guess, my wife and I were down for galley duty this Sunday - with me head chef.
Now, my egg on toast may be legendary in my own lunchtime, but chef I aint'.
But I am game to give it a go.
Provisions, as per instructions bought, arrived at the clubhouse at a little after 09:00. To be greeted by Wilma - known as Willa - who was to be a third set of hands, and as luck would have it, an experienced galley hand.
Various preparations commenced, with me cooking chicken tikka for twenty. Potato's into the oven in plenty of time to bake and stuff cut up and put out.
Luckily for us, we had not only the usual crowd for lunch but there was also an Enterprise Open meeting to partake in our culinary efforts - and more importantly for us to cope with.
There was a mad hour or so as we made like a restaurant and eventually just about everyone was fed; either with the baked potato plus filling or some of our filled rolls - lucky, lucky people!
So, relax.
On the sailing front;
During the morning, the weather had been a bit dire, well wet, but there were no significant problems on the water.
In the afternoon, however, the wind picked up again and about 14:30 a call came from the OOD / Race Officer for a volunteer to man another safety boat, as there were too many capsizes for the two already out.
Well, as I've said, I'm game.
About 15 minutes later I'm on the water, as crew initially. Just as we get out to the windward mark - three Enterprises collapse. Commence circulating like a nautical vulture. Everyone gets themselves up, so no problem. For the next hour, half as helm on the RIB, we gad about, descending on likely victims, but on the whole everyone sorted themselves out; and there was plenty of capsize recovery going on.
Wind speed got up close to thirty knots and near one metre waves - which for an enclosed reservoir can't be bad? One crew did take a long while to get back upright, but considering it was getting to the end of their third race and the conditions were far from good, maybe thats understandable and as it was only the one crew, maybe BZ'z all round for everyone else.
Brilliant fun tearing around the water on the RIB - but very grateful I brought the dry suit. I got wetter than most days sailing.
About 15:45 the last of the boats were leaving the water and derigging. Most surely crews had more than enough fun for one day!
RIBs out of the water and back into the galley for me, to finish off the day around 16:45.
Overall then, an enjoyable and varied day - given that I'm not sure I would have ventured out on my own in the weather, just about as good a day off the water and could have been got on it.
I hadn't really noticed the tendency before for windsurfers to go back and forward across the reservoir on a beam reach. Just that, back and forward; appearing to use the far side of the reservoir to stop and turn around (surely not?) There was clearly one guy on the reservoir edge walking about on the concrete fiddling with his board - well it is his board I suppose. Don't they do courses - doesn't going back and forward get boring. True, they were going at a fair speed, which must be enjoyable. Can't see me doing the back and forward thing for too long; give me a route around the buoys anytime - clearly I need a purpose not just exhilaration; I wonder what that says about me?
(Note to self; need more photo's)
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