The Hingham Bay racers were treated to a beautiful but somewhat chilly evening on the first day of summer. Twenty two boats started the race: 13 in A-Fleet, 6 in B-Fleet and 3 in C-Fleet. With a fairly steady 8-12 ESE breeze, the race Committee from S/V Lassair (who brought lasagna for the race committee participants) chose an interesting windward/leeward course for all fleets, consisting of HB to Mark 35 (the drop mark in vicinity of A Street Marina) three times around. Though the wind did not subside much, the race was shortened and the fleet did 2 ½ times around, finishing at Mark 35 which was perfect for getting back before it got too dark. The start line seemed well placed with no clear boat or pin favored side to the start. Though the tide was going out the entire race, current did not appear to be much of a factor anywhere in the bay. The low tide however did become a factor for B- Fleet boat Impromptu, as they became the top bent rudder candidate after finding Bumpkin Shoal. Static radioed to see if they were ok and if they wanted us to pre-order from the 99, but Impromptu replied only if they deliver to Bumpkin Shoal. They did reply that they had plenty of beer and hopefully they did not sustain any damage. It was good to see Firefly and Jam out competing for the first time this season.
It was a busy start for A-Fleet as seen below. The windward/leeward course required multiple chute packing, launches and douses which proved challenging for the Static crew. Black Seal made a good play during the second rounding of HB on starboard, Wild Ride was wondering how they got the gun but corrected to 7th and Casuarina’s crew did well without their Captain. Thanks to Kate R for the incredible photos. Overall, a great race to wrap up the Spring Series.
Submitted by Eric Kachel & Crew of Static
Photos submitted by Kate Richardsson, shot from Harbinger 6/21/23
