Scottish Traveller 2006 I: Bardowie

IOCA Open Training

An excellent turn-out for the 'final winter' training session saw the wind change from the 'normal' Bardowie flat calm - very picturesque with the castle reflected in the loch, but useless for sailing - to a half gale between launch (10:00) and lunch (12:30). An intensive training session, aided and abetted by the RIBcam, saw a definite improvement over the course of the day. The variable wind direction, coupled with the gusts, provided Laurie with ample opportunity to capture some classic "do's" and "don'ts" on film. The debriefs after the on-the-water sessions were as informative and useful as the actual practise sessions. Our thanks to coach Laurie, and all the helpers and organisors.

Regatta

Race Office Ian Buchan laid a classic triangle for the first regatta of the Scottish Series. A strong breeze in brilliant sunshine for the morning's two races proved challenging for the first-timers in Regatta fleet. There was the usual carnage amongst the main fleet sailors - with some very intense jockeying for position at the starts. James Logan was a convincing winner of the regatta, although the results do not show how hard he had to work to achieve that result. None of the races could be considered a procession - with some excellent close racing throughout the fleet. Excellent performances were turned in by Ross and Kae, both of whom took full advantage of the headers and lifters offered by the conditions. The tail-enders of each race would do well to remember advice given at the end of last season - 'Sail your own race'. Too much concentration on the boat immediately behind or in front of you doesn't allow you to compete with the rest of the fleet. All the helms need to remember to keep an eye on the whole fleet, and to watch the changing conditions.

Although the fleet was short of three boats (attending the selections), the numbers present bode well for the rest of this season.

As ever, the Bardowie crew made everybody welcome. Mention has to be made of the excellent catering provided by the Galley Crew, who richly deserve the thanks they received.

This event also marks the final occasion under the direction of Stuart Gibson. After many years as IOCA Scottish Rep, he has decided to relinquish the reigns to new blood, and intends to spend more time sailing his own boat. Stuart has been an inspiration to a lot of Oppie helms (and their parents) over the years. On their behalf, Thanks Stuart.

Pictures coming real soon now!

Main Fleet - overall

Gold Fleet

Silver Fleet