eMail Sent to list 12/03/08:
Hi,
The i-to-i Race is this Saturday or Sunday and we
have great news from several angles. Three things, first, we've got a
forecast:
SATURDAY
NORTHWEST WINDS 5 TO 10 KNOTS. SEAS 2 FEET OR LESS NEAR
SHORE AND UP TO 2 TO 3 FEET WELL OFFSHORE. INTRACOASTAL WATERS A
LIGHT CHOP.
SUNDAY
NORTHWEST WINDS 10 TO 15 KNOTS. SEAS 2 FEET OR LESS NEAR
SHORE AND UP TO 3 TO 5 FEET IN THE GULF STREAM. INTRACOASTAL WATERS
A LIGHT CHOP.
If I were making a decision at this moment, AND I AM
NOT, so stayed tuned, for early Friday news, the race would run on Sunday based
on the forecast above. I'm hoping this would give us the best racing and the
best turnout possible. If you have lobbying towards one day or the other let me
know in time to make decisions if the forecast changes to equal both days. In
any case, refer to the notice on the website which states:
First possible race start Saturday, December 6, 2008, 9:00 am. It's a good
idea to arrive early (7:30 am), to get an easy parking spot at Fort Lauderdale
City Lot.
This is really important that we get going as soon as the wind
comes up and steadies to avoid the mid-day sag that usually happens.
Second, we will be racing in offshore wind conditions if the
forecast holds true. I always sail with a phone in the waterproof bag, but in
offshore conditions I can't stress enough the merit of a cellphone in a
waterproof bag that you can use in the water in case you need help. Thinking
that another racer will come to your aide isn't the answer. Chances are good
we'll be spread out and you may not be visible to others. A call to the Coast
Guard, Sea Tow, or other rescue will be possible and your remedy. Obviously, an
ounce of prevention is very warranted here. Double check your gear. Make sure
your universal joint is in good working order and is fresh as well as lines,
outhaul, downhaul, etc. Liquid Surf in Miami and Fort Lauderdale have plenty of
cellphone bags in stock. Don't wait to the last moment to get your stuff
together. There is no entry fee for the race so spend the money on a cellphone
bag!
It might be handy to know, so if you replied to me and let me
know if you are in, out, or maybe, so we can tell at skipper's meeting who's
missing that might be on the way.