The kids launched at 9:30am in about a 5 knot southeasterly breeze and very cool temperatures. Racing was postponed for almost 2 hours while the race committee looked for some consistency in wind direction and pressure. Finally, with the wind holding at about 7-10 knots at 120 degrees (ESE), Race 1 got underway, with Makai and Michael in the first heat. Ceci and Antonio were in heat 2 and Rory in heat 3.
No one had a particularly good start, but Rory was able to recover well and was in 12th place before the start of the final upwind leg. Unfortunately, his decision to break from the pack and go left didn't pay off and he finished 19th. He now sits in 46th place, a remarkable achievement in these difficult conditions. As Coach Zizi pointed out, we have seen so many different conditions one the last three days, which is a positive thing for the kids, as it creates opportinities for kids of varying sizes and skill sets.
The rest of our team have had a tough regatta so far, but there are plenty of races left. Team racing takes place tomorrow, with Great Britain being our first victim!! Fleet racing resumes on Saturday. Unfortunately, racing conditions aren't forecasted to improve much for tomorrow.
The kids were treated to a fantastic performance by the Cook Islands drumming group this evening. Makai represented our team well on the dance floor, joining the Cook Island dancers and the members of their sailing team in a traditional dance!
Although our results could be better, our kids are representing Bermuda with dignity, pride and a great competitive spirit. Stay tuned for the second half of the regatta.
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