The International 5O5 Pacific Coast Championships this weekend at Kitsilano Yacht Club in Vancouver, BC was a fantastic regatta, and if you weren't there you have no idea what you missed. So, I'll try to explain. Three days of sunshine, warm temperatures, and perfect breeze for 5O5 racing on English Bay.
Friday the 14 boat fleet was with 12- 15 knots out of the West completing four races. Competition was very tight with Krysia Pohl / Jon Henderson leading the fleet by one point over Pierre Jeangirard / Paul Von Grey. Racing was followed by a delicious lasagna feast acompanied by a beautiful sunset and anticipation among the competitors whether the breeze would hold for the next day.
Sure enough, racers woke up to a stiff 15-25 knot sea breeze, which provided challenging sailing and some great spinnaker rides. The race committee kept the fleet on their toes adjusting the weather mark for the varying conditions for four more races. Paul and Pierre showed tremendous ability while Krysia and Jon missed race seven replacing a top batten that shook out of the mainsail.
While enjoying another fabulous KYC BBQ dinner telling sea stories, a few sailors noticed a house on fire across the bay very close to where Cynthia and Charles were graciously putting up several teams. Fortunately their house was not burned, but sadly two houses a few blocks away were destroyed. The excitement was followed by a debrief emceed by PVG where sailing knowledge and tips were shared. Local 5O5 legend Robin Brown coming out of retirement sailing with Phillip Cragg, sitting in 3rd place, made a dramatic exit on his Harley Davidson motorcycle.
Sunday morning the athletes looked grateful to see the 10-15 knots for races eight through twelve. With only a three point difference between 1st and 2nd place, it was very aggressive on the starting line with both teams over the line on race nine. Great sailing was awarded with very cool hand carved native Squamish tribal art.
KYC did an outstanding job on all accounts. The local fleet was very accommodating to the teams travelling from afar, including Patrick McGale coming from the UK. Also, good to see some young blood in the International 5O5 fleet. Thanks to Commodore Evan Jennings and Vice Commodore Brian Trainor and all of the others who helped put on a great regatta.
Results can be found here.
Photographs from Friday are here.
Jon Henderson
Flying Lettuce And Tomatoes USA 8829