Racing in San Francisco

October 2009

A fleet of 9 Wetas converged at the StFYC Fall Dinghy Regatta for two days of racing on the SF City front. Conditions were mild fall weather with 10-15 kts of breeze and a light afternoon flood.  The enthusiastic SF Bay Weta fleet included two new boats and we So Cal sailors Bruce Fleming (San Diego) and Robert Shirley (Ventura) attended.  Chris Kitchen from Weta New Zealand, dropped in (on the way back from the Annapolis Boat Show) to attend the regatta.

Racing was true to form One Design where each boat took its turn to impress throughout the race. Positions changed from leg to leg, and finishes were often close. Chris Kitchen (co-owner of Weta Marine and developer of the Weta) won all races and this was expected as he has logged more hours on a Weta than anybody. Second place was Richmond Yacht Clubs Bob Hyde who is the most active Weta sailor in SF Bay. Bob was responsible for introducing the Weta to SF sailors almost two years ago. Third place went to San Diego resident Bruce Fleming. Bruce has been enthusiastic about the Weta since he took his demo ride in San Diego Mission Bay last Spring. His new Weta was delivered weeks before the regatta and he only practiced for a few days before the event. He sailed a strong race to take third.

- Davo

Check out the photos and video of this event….