Recently, my brother Jack and I competed against 34 other boats from throughout North America in the 29er National Championship in Newport, Rhode Island. Preceding the event US Sailing held a 3 day Olympic Development Clinic that prepared us very well for the regatta.
On the first day of the regatta, there were light winds, about 4-7 knots. These conditions suit us well as we are a lighter weight team and we had a good day finishing the day sitting in second place. The following day there was slightly more wind with the sea breeze filling in nicely around 10 knots. We had our best day of the regatta with consistent finishes of 3-5-4-4, but we dropped to fifth after the day due to a number of top boats being able to throw out an OCS (a score of 36).
The final day morning brought an offshore breeze, which as we got out to the racecourse died as it was fighting the sea breeze. Eventually the sea breeze prevailed bringing about 8-12 knots of breeze. We did not have the best day, struggling in the 8th and 10th races but managed to get a 2nd in the 9th race.
We held our position and finished the regatta in 5th place. Overall we had a great week and loved the sailing conditions in Newport. Newport is a great sailing town with a rich history and where many SDYC greats have sailed before. Thanks to San Diego Yacht Club and the Competition Fund for the continued support for our sailing.