What a weekend to start the Winter’s training in the SWYSA RS Feva Winter Squad. This weekend we were based at Paignton so not far to travel. Whilst the parents had a briefing with the head coach, James Dowrick, we warmed up ready for sailing with RTYC’s very own Lauren Paton. We then had a briefing discussing our plan for the day and what tactics we would use in the conditions.
We launched in beautiful sunny conditions but with a cold breeze that certainly encouraged us to get out sailing quickly. Myself and my crew Thomas soon exited the harbour and got back into the routine of sailing together. We have only been sailing together since the Torbay Royal Regatta, so it was good to find our routine again quickly.
Out in the Bay we were quite glad that we had followed James’ instructions and layered up as the wind was deceptively cold. We spent the morning carrying out drills improving our team work and get the boat to maneuverer under the conditions. As you can see from the pictures, we had great fun. After a hearty lunch we were back in the boat park learning about how to configure our boats for the stronger afternoon winds. It was a tricky launch from the harbour in the afternoon and after while we all came in via the beach.
Sunday was always going to be a windy day and with boats breaking their moorings in Paignton Harbour the squad stayed ashore. We had a good day looking at sail settings and race techniques.
Thank you to the Commodore’s Bursary for helping to support this winter’s training. Next time we are off to Chew Valley for some inland sailing.
Oliver Thorpe
RS Feva 2508 “SeaFury”
Thanks to Oliver for an excellent blog post. For more information on the Commodore's Bursary click here.