2022 Halloween Classic Results

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Well, we are usually looking for wind on Charles Mill Lake, and the remnants of Hurricane Ian brought as much, and more, than the fleet could handle.

Eleven boats braved the forecast of winds in the teens and gusts above 20 with temps around 60 degrees for the first race on Saturday afternoon.  The fleet performed amazingly well, with good upwind tacking and a number of chutes downwind.  Only one boat went over and they righted themselves and finished the race without assistance.  

The second race went off with the frequency of gusts starting to increase during the first upwind leg.  A boat went over to windward on the first downwind leg and required assistance from the MSC safety boat.  At that point, the RC made the decision to shorten the race.  Two boats made the shortened finish, with the rest of the fleet opting to continue the downwind leg into the club docks and the righted boat being towed in.

With racing abandoned for the day, an early social hour in front of the fire and an early dinner in the MSC ballroom, also with a fire, revealed again what a great group Jet sailors are.

The wind persisted through the night, and Sunday morning brought winds in the high teens and frequent gusts above 20.  After breakfast, the RC boat went out to survey the lake and determined that abandonment was the prudent call.

As usual, plenty of food was provided to keep the crews full and happy.  Mike and Jon Chambers provided Saturday lunch, Stewart and Heather Fitz Gibbon and Paul and Carol Denzinger provided Saturday dinner and Sunday breakfast.  Many thanks also to our long time expert Race Chair Mike Fulton and his helpers Blake Stone and Ray Joyal on the committee boat.

A good time was had by all despite the tough conditions, and we look forward to welcoming the fleet back next year.