Charles' turn

The "Crew Race" at National is a great tradition. It occurs after the regular season. The race provides an opportunity for a crew member (someone who doesn't normally helm) to have a chance on helm for a race. Over the past three years, I have rotated my choice as the "crew skipper" and this year it was Charles' turn.

We also had a few replacements in other positions. So in addition to Charles taking my spot; Adrian replaced Chris and David/I replaced Charles/Janet. We had a bit of discussion about who would portray whom. Who was it that would do a 'Janet'? Well since Janet did a 'Janet' when she was foredeck; it was up to Adrian to reprise the maneuver!

The winds were light from the south south west. The RC used "0" as the windward mark; there was no offset. The start line was set appropriately. It was a very competitive race with placings changing several times throughout the race between Jack Rabbit, Candlelight and us. The crew performed very well. I stepped back to handle tactics, and let Charles helm and David handle the sheets. We had good tacks and good mark roundings. I was pleased with the crew's performance. We ended up behind Candlelight but ahead of Jack Rabbit. It was a very enjoyable race.

After dinner the PRO, when the results are announced, is supposed to use the skipper's name rather than the boat name. Unfortunately this didn't happen so Charles didn't get the recognition he deserved.