Round the County 2010
Thanks to Neil Bennett for the race report,
and Ray Poorman for the video!
This race is a classic fall event. Now in its 23rd year, it attracts more of sailing addicts and strategists than any other two day regatta in the Puget Sound region. Wind, weather and tidal currents make this a challenge, and anyone who participates and finishes (!) is a winner in their own right.
This year, 4.5 BYC boats (one boat, Illusionist, a J109, hails from Seattle, but for this race, was made up of 50% Hamsters, so we are claiming the local hailing port) joined in for the fun of Fall, almost Winter sailing. The sun was shining on the water, the wind never died for more than ‘too long’ and the currents were mostly going in the right direction. The BYC held its own pre- regatta party at Blakely Marina, joined by several support boats and hanger’s on. A good time was ‘heard’ by all (and really if you like the Doors) and amazingly enough, no one fell off the dock.
Saturday morning came early, but everyone made it out and soon, the spinnakers were flying. It was clockwise this year, so South we headed. At some times, there was enough current it was hard to not ‘out-speed’ the wind. Two boats, Flying Circus and Blackfoot were early leaders in their divisions.
Sunday also came early, despite that extra hour of sleep – it was heard on the docks that many racers expected two ‘last calls’ at the bar. Again, the wind gods made us mortals, then the current gods gave us a occasional spanking. In the end, it was apples and oranges for Vitesse and Illusionist, with Vitesse showing her light air prowess, but it was not enough to catch Illusionist who took 3rd in Division I. Hravn was nipping at the heels of the 3rd place finisher in Division II. Flying Circus took 2nd over Blackfoot in 3rd for Division III. A good showing for the Club against many talented boats and sailors from the Seattle, Anacortes, and British Columbia sailing community.
Overall results were also impressive. In a 73 boat fleet it was:
| Vessel | Division | Overall |
| Illusionist | 2 | 16th |
| Vitesse | 3 | 20th |
| Hravn | 4 | 29th |
| Flying Circus | 2 | 33rd |
| Blackfoot | 3 | 46th |
Full results at http://oiyc.org/race_book/race_book_2010/RTC/results.php. It’s a good read about how competitive 70 plus miles of racing can be.
This is a great regatta run cooperatively by two small but committed yacht clubs, Orcas Island and Friday Harbor Sailing Club; one that fills a very important spot in the overall racing schedule. If you are out cruising next year and find yourself at a reciprocal dock, or see their burgee, please be sure to thank them again for a great, ‘job well done.’
Neil Bennett
