Glazed Over

A capful of breeze one day and the next . . . zilch!   The twenty-five Farr 40s motored out to the Division 1 racecourse and sat, for the most part, like “painted ships upon a painted sea.”  For two hours they sat, with the occasional sail hoisted and attempts to induce the Race Committee to hold the fourth race of the series were made by those whose origin was from lands of balmy breezes.  But very wisely the race officer counseled against such bare-faced assaults on his decision.  At noon, the decision was made, in line with the weather reports, and all racing was abandoned for the day.

It was a wise decision, one endorsed by the event director, Peter Craig: “I believe that any result from a race in those conditions might not reflect well on the series and could affect a worthy winner of the regatta.”  Race officers on all four courses took similar action.  “In the past 20 years of Key West Race Week, there have been 100 race days and on only two of them was racing not held – this week we have already matched that!”

Craig was also concerned that the airless conditions could carry forward into Thursday.  “One weather model shows almost nothing all day, while the other holds promise of six knots.  I hope the latter proves correct.”

Reflecting on the performance of Vincenzo Onorato’s Mascalzone Latino, tactician Adrian Stead said: “We put it down to the amount of practice that we have had.  It shows who has practiced and who hasn’t and I don’t think I need point further than yesterday’s results.”  Mascalzone Latino posted scores of 2,2,3 and in addition to heading the Farr 40 points table, was the recipient of the Sperry Top-Sider Boat-of-the-Day award.

Ends.