Well, in typical Tradewinds Regatta style, today was a blow-out. (Maybe it had something to do with Friday the 13th and the full moon happening at the same time.) Early morning reports from Molasses Reef had winds of 36 knots. By race time the wind had died to a sustained 30 knots with gale-force gusts. Sooo, races were canceled for the day and the beer keg was tapped early.
It is an absolutely beautiful day, though, with clear, sunny skies and temperature in the mid 70's.
Sunday the winds are supposed to die to a manageable level, so races will start an hour early (9:00 a.m. instead of 10:00). But it is going to be a bit chilly in the morning, temperatures in the 40's (Fahrenheit).
If I decide not to sail because of the wimp factor, I'll be available let you know what happens tomorrow.
Sunday:
First race started at 9:33 a.m., a half hour late because all the boats weren't there. Looks to be about 58 boats out there racing at this point, because a couple of boats retired. Wind is 20 or less, with very light chop and is expected to keep dying throughout the day and continuing to gradually shift more from north to northeast.
Long boring day of work ahead for me.. post pictures! please?
We did have a terrific day of sailing today - started out blowing 15 knots or so and the wind slowly dissipated to where it was blowing closer to 8 by 1pm when we were headed in. We've got some (lopsided) stories at www.teamseacats.com/wordpress/
Sorry - no pictures...but Roy Laughlin was out there taking soem great shots. Undoubtedly he will have them up at www.floridamultihullsailor.com soon.