Dylan Collingbourne
25 May 2025
"As we head into the last day of qualifying, keep it consistent especially in the big breeze. Get counting results to take over to final series."
Key Weather Details
Wind: 17/19 knots gusting 26/30+ from WSW to W
Tide: High water 13:26
Water State: Wavey in the channel in the morning with wind over tide and the large gusts, plattening off slightly in the afternoon
Temperature & Precipitation: 13-14 degrees and chances of rain through the day
Other Notes: With some forecast models suggesting gusts of 35+, it is looking like it will be marginal sailing conditions tomorrow.
As seen there is a distinct lull from the headland into the race course by the bridge. But even in these winds, it is looking top end across the course. If sailing goes ahead, it will be a simple sailing day with focuses on boat speed, keeping the boat going in the big winds, and endurance throughout the racing. Remember to maintain endurance throughout the regatta.
More rain is forecasted for the afternoon, so this may act as a potential do reduce the wind speed so stay focused if racing is held ashore in the morning.
Day Breakdown
Sunday:
Morning | Early afternoon | Late afternoon |
17-18 knots gusting 28 W 13 degrees Swell Sunny spells with some chance of rain | 18-19 knots gusting 26 W 14 degrees Swell left over from tide Sunny spells with some chance of rain | 18 knots gusting 27 WSW 14 degrees Shorter chop from the wind Sunny spells with some chance of rain |
Tactical Considerations
We go into tomorrow with the plan to sail! Save your energy and stock up on your nutrition. With the change to the SIs saying that there are only 4 races to make a qualifying series, there may be fewer races tomorrow, but make sure they count. Keeping the boat driving and not too under powered. Be sure to keep coming back to rig set up for adjustments:
Jib tension
Shrouds
Bridle
Kicker tension
Possibly move the jib sheets to the top hole on the clew to close the leech
Keep up the good work as we close off the qualifying series.