Results / RS400 Coaching Portchester SC - 07/05/2016

The Rooster sailing, 2ndhanddinghies.com RS400 Southern tour kicked off this weekend with a coaching day at Portchester SC. 10 visiting boats joined 2 local boats on the south coast. Everyone was greeted with sunshine while everyone set up and checked their rig settings. This was followed by a briefing/ Q&A session before heading onto the water.

The fleet launched into 10 knots of breeze and blazing sunshine, which slowly built to 15 knots over the 3 hour session. Initially the focus was on boat speed both up wind and down. The moderate planning breeze being the perfect conditions to practice both ‘hot’ and ‘soaking’ modes downwind. This was followed by starting practice; then 3 short races with a leeward gate.

With both the tide and energy levels on the ebb the fleet headed ashore for chilli and a debrief in the bar. This ended an enjoyable day where every boat was sailing noticeably faster and smarter by late afternoon.

Racing starts next weekend at Bartley SC where the Southern & Northern tours both meet. This is the first of 8 events throughout the year (4 to count).

Additionally, for the first time, this year will feature a constructor’s trophy. Each boat  from a sailing/ yacht club will score points towards the ‘constructors championship’, with more points awarded for higher finishes. So its well worth dragging your club mates along to events to bolster your chances in this competition as every boat counts!!

Full details of the Rooster sailing, 2ndhanddinghies.com RS400 Southern tour can be found at uk.rs400.org

Mark Oakey