August 2009 News
It has been a great month of DRIFTING in Commencement Bay. After having a summer of great winds, we have had 3 or 4 drifting races here in Tacoma over the last few weeks. Sometimes we have drifted fast, other very slow. Heck, we once climbed over the back and kicked hoping that would help. But then again, who cares, it has been sunny and great to sit on the water.
One right of the summer is the annual Vashon Challenge. This is a double handed race around Vashon Island, a total of 33 miles, but with only two people on the baot. This year, Aubre crewed for Eric and they set off in light winds that eventually built into the low teens. We were doing well, until we had to do a sail change,. We quickly gave up our lead and went on to pace the fleet. At the windward mark, and after a bitter fight with teh big spinnaker, a twist, a shrimping, we took off and were able to finish the race, crossing the finish line 2nd and correcting to 3rd. Best part of the race - it only took 6 hours...... Thaks to Aubre for being such a good sport and working hard!