Range of C-Dory at Hull Speed

Minor digression to Dr. Bob:

Isn't it aggravating in a 'race' when you have to put out your anchor to avoid going backwards? A close second is using a July 4 punk to create the slightest wisp of smoke because there is not nearly enough wind to move the tell-tales. And of course, most aggravating is watching your competition that happened to go inside (if you went out), or out (if you went in) getting wind before you do, while you and all nearby boats continue to drift. On overnight races in Puget Sound years ago there would always be a great thrill trying to locate your competition with binoculars in the wee-est early hours of dawn, especially if you have been essentially drifting most of the night.

iggy
 
Yep, Iggy. Once after a 200 mile race, I was in sight of the finish line, and a boat which had to give me a lot of time, was just able to squeek across the finish line before the wind died and the tide turned. The boats which didn't anchor, were swept about 15 miles out to see on the tidal flow. We finished about 8 hours later--no wind, but mostly the early tide flow pushed us across the line....

I always contended that many long distance races are won at night--when most folks back off and don't pay as much attention to the wind and sea conditions...

Regards,
 
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