A Balmy Pumpkin Regatta

October 01, 2007  |  by Rick Goldt  |  Results  |  Photos

With the normal expectation of summer coming to a close the Pumpkin Regatta in the past was a 50/50 proposition between some moderately warm and sunny weather and the possibility of the first frost or even snow. This year at last, we had balmy sunscreen type weather, good for keeping the tan up.

Saturday September 29 dawned rather foggy and windless. With 38 boats comprised of 8 Y flyers (Ontario Championship), 11 Wayfarers, 7 Lasers, and the usual numerous odd assortment of big and small Open Fleet boats lunch became the first order of business as the wind held off until the early afternoon. Now on most windless days, particularly in June till August when the sun is high and hot, one would shy away as much as possible from racing in those conditions.

The Race committee under the directorship of Jeff Eames felt the racers would appreciate the pleasant conditions of 0 to –1 knots with gusts to 1 knot. I must admit although I get crankier about these windless conditions and the cost per non race I didn't participate in, I actually didn't mind it this time, like enjoy the weather while it lasts. OK, so I also pass up on the odd heavy air too, something having to do with self-preservation, or live to fight another day.

Racing or plodding along as I'd rather say, lasted until late in the afternoon. Three short races were held with 38 boats enjoying the close company on about the shortest of courses one could have. The hills (cliffs) were filled with...the...sound...of...music. I indirectly digress. Racing was pretty close amongst the fleets with busy mark roundings. I had to use the brakes once to avoid running into boats ahead in these close encounters. As usual with the light winds the idea was to synchronize your position on the course with the alternating and rotating wind directions. Didn't work for me.

Saturday evening the crowds dispersed into their own dinner groups and then off to bed dog tired of being cramped in the boats all afternoon and possibly from a bit too much sun too.

Starting out on Sunday 3 more races were held under slightly increasing southerly breezes. Again the shifts were alternating. The courses were a bit longer than on Saturday but still crowded at marks at times. Fanshawe played good host to visitors, letting those from out of town take most of the winning honours. Kudos to all the volunteers. Lunches were great, and the volunteers were treated to their own turkey and wine after the regatta. The weather will be remembered for a long time, unless temperatures go up another degree next year.

Rick Goldt Laser 38585