KATO TRIUMPHS!

The 6th and final race of the Spring Shakedown series was held on 3/21/19. Three laps were raced over 6.23 miles with a NNE wind of 8 knots. Going into the race, Fast Company was leading the series by 1 point. Boats raced with their large #1 headsails. Boats usually start on starboard tack as they have the right of way. But both Fast Company and Ozone battled to get a good port tack start near the mole and #6 buoy. Ozone slowed Fast Company down but then had to avoid a starboard tacker and fell behind while Kato slowly gained. Speedy struggled with a broken headstay foil that wouldn’t hold their jib in place. (Fortunately the foil is still under warranty and will be replaced by the maker). Papa Au had Andy Evans on the helm in a battle for 3rd place with Ozone. But their jib halyard skyed and without a headsail, Papa Au decided to retire. Double Expresso with the newly recruited adult sailors had Emily Buck on the helm for awhile, much to the delight of her fiancé David Cuevas who was doing foredeck on Ozone.(5/18/19 is their big day!)

Kato easily won the race with a PHRF time of 1:16:35. Ozone finished second with a time of 1:17:25. By finishing third with a time of 1:17:49 Fast Company gave up their potential series win to Kato. Kevin Millett on the helm of the winning boat Kato gave his fellow crew member and fiancé Katie an early wedding present for their 4/4/19 wedding (at least he should consider giving her the trophy…)

The public is invited to watch the start of the Rum Series on 3/28/19 from the Nawiliwili Jetty with the start at 5 pm. Entered boats must provide an entry fee of one bottle of rum.

-Chris

Click for race results and more photos from Charlotte