This quote probably sums up the day the best: “It’s a bit like Brexit…nobody knows what’s going on but everyone is shouting about it” (anon)
Today the fleet was tested with a 6-12kt northerly giving very unstable and shifty conditions in Hayling Bay. Paul Brotherton and Alain Sign showed us how to do it with a 1,1,2 to make a significant move up the leaderboard with Roger Gilbert and Ben McGrane hot on their heels. The big pressure changes and 40 degree shifts made for high stress sailing. Gains and losses could be huge and if you thought you had nailed it the chances were the other side would pay.
After 3 difficult races the fleet retired ashore to pick apart the days racing. To continue the open information sharing the fleet held a debrief attended by the majority of the fleet with the top sailors sharing their tips and strategy and trying to de-mystify the challenging conditions.
To round of the day, Hayling Island Sailing Club hosted the fleet for a delicious curry night before tomorrow’s final 2 races.
Results are here: http://www.hisc.co.uk/media/2978/int505-euro-cup.htm
