Long Distance Challenge

Sunday, August 3, 2008

With a questionable forecast for rain and wind conditions on Sunday, August 3 four sailboats optimistically set sail out of Smith Cove to begin the Long Distance Challenge at the starting line set up near Welch Island. Peter Crosby started the race for the participants. The wind was light but all of the boats were able to cross the starting line within five minutes. Czech-Mate, Sugar Mountain, Kookaburra II, and Haleakala were the competitors. The course was to sail from the starting line to Parker Island (to port) and back to the start/finish line off of Welch Island. With much anticipation and hope the sailors carefully maneuvered their boats to take full advantage of the rapidly deteriorating wind conditions. After two hours, with Parker Island still a long distance away, the race was abandoned. It remained fairly overcast most of the afternoon but did not rain until after the boats had returned to their home ports.

A Rum Punch Party was enjoyed back at the dock at Fay's Boat Yard. Heavy thunderstorms set the backdrop for the event.

Submitted by Donna A. Garland