Comebacks and firsts at North American Challenge Cup
by Morgan Kinney 7 Aug 2016 07:12 BST
5-7 August 2016
North American Challenge Cup day 2 © Grace Glenny / Chicago Yacht Club
To the welcome relief of the sailors and Race Committee alike, the wind made an appearance at Day Two of the North American Challenge Cup. The 24th running of the disabled regatta at Chicago Yacht Club started Friday in light air only allowing time for only two races.
Today, the breeze filled in at 12-13 knots from the north. The waves bounced off the Belmont Harbor breakwall providing the teams with confused seas adding to the challenge of maneuvering around the course. Principal Race Officer Alina Dix stated, "Today was far more consistent. The breeze was up and steady, which meant we didn't have to change the course at all."
Brigid Bodo is one point out of first place behind Antonio Sanpere in the Sonar Class. "It's great racing with such a competitive fleet," said Brigid Bodo. "I learn so much more when the fleet is sailing close compared to spread father apart." Bodo made a comeback after being disqualified for a windward-leeward infraction during Race One yesterday.
In the Freedom 20 Class, Bob Jones is leading with eight points. "The Judd Goldman clinics are really paying off and it's been very competitive. It's been great to sail against everyone," said Jones. Things really picked up for Jones today with two bullets only giving up one race to the 19-year-old Barbara Galinski. This is Galinski's first bullet after competing in the NACC for three years. She explained, "We always improved. Yesterday we went 3, 2. Today we went 3, 2, 1. It'd be nice start from second and improve, so that's what we're shooting for tomorrow."
Unfortunately, Sunday's forecast is calling for lighter winds from the east, which may leave the boats without the power to maneuver through today's leftover chop.
Sunday is the final day of racing for the North American Challenge Cup. In addition to class prizes, two additional trophies will be given to selected competitors. The Pete Paganis Sportsmanship Trophy will be awarded to the regatta participant who best exemplifies the ideals of good sportsmanship both on and off the water during the regatta, as chosen by the popular vote of all regatta competitors. The Marcy Gorov Memorial Trophy will be awarded to the team or individual who, in the opinion of the regatta committee, comes to the regatta with the least amount of sailing experience and gives the best overall performance.
Full results can be found here.