The 2013 Swiftsure Inshore Classic proved to be a challenging race for everyone involved. What a thrill to be be queuing up for the start with close to 200 other boats.
Our strategy was to start in the second tier and look for a lane through the fleet. After crossing the line MARTHA was able to out foot and climb over most of our competitors and by the first mark rounding “Brotchie ledge,” we were in 6th place or so.
As we stepped out to the second mark, “Albert Head,” we reeled in the top of the fleet and went into pursuit of the leaders which were three very well sailed Melges.
From the third mark, “VH”to Discovery Island, we had a solid lead, which we gave up to 2 of the Melges as we approached the Beaumont Shoal mark to round for Baynes channel, at which point things became very complicated.
The flood was whistling up through Baynes Channel and the wind was light, we could see the leaders quickly harden up and stall as the current took control of their destiny.
We immediately hardened up to give ourselves a chance to navigate the back eddy sliding up against Strong Tide Island, we wanted to be cautious as this area is really a pile of rocks with water running through and over it.
The current stopped us dead in our tracks and for a few moments MARTHA was driven backwards; our options were to tack or ferry over through the current and pass under Jemmy Jones Island; we chose the second option.
In the end it was was the 2 Melges over the line, followed by MARTHA in third place line honors.
A very tactical end to a great race.
We want to thank the Royal Victoria Yacht Club for their warm hospitality and the Swiftsure Race Organizers for such a great race.
Check out MARTHA’s Facebook page for more info.