This past weekend, our Opti Team took on the Opti Heavy Weather Regatta in SF. Typically known for the big breeze and massive tidal swings, "the City Front", brought some bizarre conditions. With wind under 16 knots and an average of 2.5 knots of max flood, the conditions were tricky to say the least.
Day one:
With a 5.6 foot flood tide forecasted the sailors found themselves working at 100% just to stay at the start line! Flood relief was found by "short-tacking" the shore underneath St.Francis YC. Breeze peaked at a mere 14 knots and three races were accomplished.
Day two:
Light air was forecasted as a massive heat wave hit the East Bay. We sent it out to the water to find >10 knots and the beginning of a huge flood tide. At the first start signal, the Opti hull speed was unable to match the current velocity. Thus, sailors found themselves giving max effort only to go backwards! Race committee called the race quits and we were sent to shore. After waiting two hours for the flood to decrease, we were sent back out for two races.
Day three:
Meant to be the warmest day of the event with high temps in Stockton reaching 105. Sailors were greeted with 13-16 knots of wind and slightly less tide. Three races were completed to wrap up the event!
Overall:
Team SBYSF finished well! Ryan Satterberg finished in a close 2nd for the event but earned the title of overall Harken Series Champion! Liam Andresen sailed a solid regatta to finish 5th/60 boats. Also in the top 10 were: Blake Behrens 8th/60 and Oliver Stokke 10th/60. Crue Ziskind also had a strong performance placing 2nd in White Fleet