The 2004 Inland 20 Nationals were hosted by the Indian Lake Yacht Club, September 10th thru the 12th. Remnants of hurricane Frances were just to the east of us the day before the regatta started. This slowed down the movement of an area of high pressure, leaving us with three days of sun and warm temperatures, but unfortunately little wind.
Racing started Friday afternoon. After a short postponement, one race was completed in a NNE breeze of 2-6 mph. After a filling dinner, the clear skies provided terrific star viewing. A few shooting stars were even seen.
Saturday morning dawned clear and cold, with not a breath of wind. We went into shore postponement, enjoyed the volleyball court, and had impromptu demonstrations on sailing techniques. The breeze slowly filled in, although was wildly variable in direction. Mid-afternoon, we hit the water as the breeze seemed to be settling down from a slightly more easterly direction than Friday. The breeze was generally lighter than Friday, abruptly shutting off just after the first two boats finished.
In both races, holding your position was difficult as each side of the course had its moments of looking good. The first mark leaders couldn't hang on for the rest of race, with several boats leading each race at various times. The light air took its toll with many boats very close to finishing when the secondary time limit expired.
Another fabulous dinner Saturday night was followed by the Annual meeting.
Among issues discussed was how to deal with the secondary time limit (which is the same we use at the ILYA regattas.) Some good ideas were generated, we will be sure to attempt to try something different at the 2005 Nationals. Following all this serious stuff was a free raffle with lots of goodies donated by our friends in the marine industry. Still itching for a little more competition, several sailors then took to the local go-cart track.
While the wind wasn't that great, the hospitality sure was. Mark and Kim Buchheit kept everything running smoothly. Many of the out-of-towners stayed in the homes of ILSC members, helping make the regatta that much more of an enjoyable experience. Thanks Indian Lake Yacht Club!!