Like we were shot out of a cannon

We got to the start with no issues and had a nice sail in 15-20 knots out under the Golden Gate. Our division is down to 5 boats. Once out, we dodged whales to get to the synoptic breeze on a west-southwest course. We’ve been doing 1-hour watches because helming is really physical – we are broad reaching in 6-foot waves coming from two sides (behind and from the side). The waves are so confused, I think we surfed the same wave twice. We wish we’d brought the other main with two reefs so that we could use a bigger headsail but driving is getting easier with the breeze slowly clocking around behind us. We have had steady 20-32 knots. We did a main repair to add spreader patches under reef, and we managed to have our forward water tank drain a gallon or two after a bottle hit the y- valve. We’re fine, but plenty wet from the firehose surfing. The beanbag is awesome for sleeping, and we’re enjoying Wayne’s cookies.

Haven’t seen the position reports, but I’m guessing we look like the sheep that lost its, way down south. That wasn’t the plan, but in this much breeze this is as high as we can go. May not be optimal, but higher on the fun meter, or lower on the pain meter. Depends on how you look at it. Top speed is 18 knots, with a reef and a number 4 jib. Crazy! So different from 2014. We haven’t seen a cloud since we left the bay.

4 comments