First day of the regatta – at the boat 3 hours before the start to finish a couple of small projects, and head out to the racecourse with plenty of time to test a couple of the legs and confirm the sail selections.
We were the third class to start and headed out on our 29 mile race round a variety of islands and rocks. Soon we were getting water across the deck as we bucked the choppy waves. Up went the chute and down the course we sped. Gybe followed gybe, and after an hour and a half we rounded the furthest island and started to thread our way back to Gustavia. The scenery has a similarity with Sardinia – very pretty.
The final leg to the finish was under chute at 20 knots – spray everywhere. After the finish, back to the dock and the regatta champagne and rum bar – all good. Third place for the day – all good, though second was in sight – never satisfied I guess. Now 15 sailors heading to the main house for the debrief followed by refreshments and dinner.