Darren and Rob are presently engaged in an 'epic' duel.
Gooch logging another quick one!
I have had the benefit of watching them both drop into Speed Creek regularly over the last few weeks, with top speeds being traded back and forth.
Darren putting in some 'overtime'.
Darren's 36+ is looking tough to beat, at least until a more favourable wind direction hits the harbour. Let the battle rage on!
If you want to get amongst it, let me know. I still have access to GT-31 GPS units, preferred device of the speed sailing community.
In the meantime, a visiting kiter to The Bay posted a session that may be hard to beat for quite a while. Gavin Broadbent logged 50+ at Fergusson Park, and rates the inner harbour spot highly.
The only backup day available for racing turned out to be an absolute cracker!
There had been a good amount of initial interest generated in the original event, and the pressure was on to ensure the locals experience a bit more competitive sailing. Peter and I had been following the forecasts closely, and to wake up early on raceday to a rattling ranch slider, was a fairly positive sign.
After a brief inspection of Kulim, the shifting wind direction necessitated a shift up the harbour to Fergusson Park. The increasing breeze was generating some real excitement. 7.0s were being stashed back into their bags, and smaller sails were being rigged and tuned before the first race. Pete’s briefing was kept short and simple, “here’s the course, see you on the water!”
Tim and Kristaps proved how tactics and consistency applies to racing. While many others had exhibited competitive boardspeed and skills, getting clear at the start and and transitioning accurately around the buoys kept the ‘visitors’ well ahead of the fleet. The ever increasing wind and chop, certainly made targeting efficient gybes in the ‘traffic’, entertaining. But fun, eh?
Between races there was frantic re-rigging and self-analysis. The fine line between power and control was constantly on display. Peter was able to capture some of these ‘hairy’ moments, while still monitoring the course.
The day evolved into a 'shootout' between 2 of Auckland's top slalom racers. After the 6 races, the final results had Kristaps secure a few more wins over Tim.
Congratulations Kristaps!
The falling tide beat us all in the end, but most had had an epic afternoon.
Plenty of races in fully powered conditions, what more could we have asked for?
Once again, a HUGE thanks to; Peter & Jules from Elements Watersports, for running an
awesome event!
The random prize draw,(conducted under strict supervision) winners are as follows; The Gaastra NZ Discount voucher - Darryl
The Watercooled Discount voucher - Chantelle
The NZ Boardstore Voucher - Dean Assault Boardriders Vouchers - Kristaps, Pierre and John K.
A’ND Distribution - Wind and Kitesurfing Guide, Europe - Roger
*Peter and Jules will be in touch to arrange prize collection, or delivery.
Be sure to support our event sponsors this Summer;
http://elementswatersports.co.nz
http://assault.co.nz
Also, thanks to;
Windsurfing New Zealand for the support.
Candy's Coffee Cart for the great eats and drinks
Brent Devcich for putting great pics
and video together
And a massive thank-you to Tim and Marilyn for assisting with the
smooth running of the day!
We will start setting up for some fun racing this Saturday 10am at Kulim Park. On water by 11am for practice starts and racing.
A mix of racing to suit those on the water and the weather. * Beach start - gybe - gybe - gybe - finish * Beach start and then 1st across the line. no corners. * Timed Flying starts - Gybe - Gybe - finish * Maybe a GPS speed challenge
All racing to be doable and fun. Regular briefing and tactics sessions.
If we have headed out when you arrive then read the briefing board on
the shore, sign you name and come and find me in the red powerboat. Ill
fill you in on any changes and tactics.
